Wade Wilson’s Murders and Cult Following

Wade Wilson has admitted to the brutal killings of two women, yet this shocking violence has not deterred his admirers. Rather, he’s attracted a disturbing cult-like group of followers, with hundreds of women expressing their loyalty to him.

Brian Ross, co-director and producer of “Handsome Devil,” remarked, “I’ve covered many criminals, but this phenomenon is astounding.” He added, “Wilson had hundreds of women who appeared to be infatuated, wanting to marry him and even have children, despite knowing the horrific details of his crimes.” Ross was intrigued by this and delved deeper, finding the entire situation increasingly bizarre.

Paramount+ has released a true-crime documentary that delves into Wilson’s case, a 31-year-old man sharing a name with a Marvel character. The film features interviews with his ex-girlfriend, father, and investigators.

On October 7, 2019, Wilson strangled 35-year-old Christine Melton after they met at a bar. Later that same day, he found 43-year-old Diane Lewis on the street, proceeded to strangle her, and ran over her with his vehicle. Wilson was arrested a day later after confessing the murders to his father in a series of calls.

“Both women were deeply loved,” said Rhonda Schwartz, co-director and producer. “Kristin had moved to Florida to be near family and had cherished childhood friendships. Diane was adored by her children and colleagues, sparking tireless searches when she vanished.”

Wilson’s mug shot made waves on social media, attracting women who romanticized his image. The fascination only grew when he appeared in court in a colorful suit, turning the legal proceedings into a viral sensation.

His heavily tattooed face, adorned with swastikas and an unsettling stitched smile, only added to the attention.

Wilson’s online presence, especially on TikTok, has gained him followers who call themselves “Wade’s Wives.” Some women expressed desires for physical intimacy, while others were enchanted by his voice. “They said he made them laugh,” Ross shared.

Women were reportedly eager to send Wilson money, raising around $100,000 through a fundraising website. Although intended for legal help, Wilson reportedly spent it on snacks. During his time in prison, he received numerous love letters and explicit images.

One devoted supporter even bought him a suit for court appearances, going so far as to purchase cosmetics to cover his tattoos, though it didn’t improve his appearance during trial.

Ross pointed out the horror felt by prosecutors over both the crime and Wilson’s cult following. “I think we all wonder what caused him to commit such acts,” Ross stated, noting Wilson offered various explanations, some claiming he was influenced by drug use. Ultimately, he described Wilson as a smooth-talking killer.

Many still contemplate what could have gone wrong, Schwartz noted. “People tried to figure him out. His defense team explored whether past trauma contributed, while his girlfriends often believed they could ‘fix’ him.”

Witnesses described Wilson as having a quickly shifting demeanor, sometimes becoming threatening, even toward women who admired him. “A former girlfriend referred to it as ‘the eyes of a serial killer,’” Ross said. Wilson showed little remorse and was often barred from media access during incarceration.

In June 2024, he was convicted of the murders and sentenced to death shortly thereafter.

Following his sentencing, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office reported a flood of messages to Wilson. Over a month, he garnered thousands of messages, letters, and photographs from supporters, many of which were flagged as inappropriate.

Florida prosecutors expressed their outrage at his admirers. Amira Fox stated, “I’ve never seen someone as evil as Wade Wilson,” noting her disbelief at the support he received from the community.

Today, Ross observes a stark contrast in Wilson’s current prison photos, where he appears unkempt and unhealthy. “The consequences of his actions have deeply affected the victims’ families and the local community. He remains on death row, appealing his sentence, but will ultimately serve the rest of his life in isolation.”

“Handsome Devil: Charming Killer” is currently available on Paramount+.