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The Real Story of 'Hit Man' on Netflix: Who Really Was Gary Johnson?

Netflix’s 'Hit Man': A Deep Dive into a Killer's Psyche

By Toyin OlajidePublished 25 days ago 3 min read
"Hit Man" Gary Johnson

Netflix never fails to deliver when it comes to dramas based on true crimes. The gripping series "Hit Man," which investigates the sinister, unnoticed facets of human nature, has generated the most recent buzz. However, the fact that this show is based on a real person—Gary Johnson—is what makes it so captivating. Who was Gary Johnson, and what's his extraordinary story? This story is as intriguing as it gets, so buckle up

A Terrifying Introit

Imagine coming across a terrifying advertisement in a magazine's classified section: "Hit Man Available." Doesn't it sound like something out of a nightmare? In any case, during the 1980s, this was a dismal reality.

The enigmatic Gary Johnson appeared in these advertisements, promising to solve your problems for a fee. He was certainly not a fictitious person from a crime novel—he was a genuine individual, working in the shadows of society.

The Normal Facet of Life

Gary Johnson wasn't always the notorious assassin he became. He began his life as an ordinary person who seemed to lead a routine life.

He worked as a blue-collar worker during the day and fit right in with the other people. He appeared to live a normal life with friends and family. However, beneath this ordinary exterior lay a man with a sinister, perilous secret.

The Double Life

In the late 1970s, Johnson's life took a vile turn. He began advertising as a contract killer in soldier-of-fortune type magazines. He ran his business in a shockingly straightforward manner: he would meet with potential customers, negotiate a price, and then carry out the transaction. For years, Johnson managed to evade suspicion, skillfully covering his tracks and maintaining his cover as an ordinary working man.

The Cause of Infamy

Johnson's criminal career could have lasted forever if he hadn't made one fatal error. In 1985, one of his clients turned out to be an undercover FBI agent. This sting operation marked the beginning of the end for Johnson. His arrest and subsequent trial revealed the terrifying scope of his crimes and his double life.

The Trial of the Century

The courtroom drama that ensued was sensational. Johnson was depicted by the prosecution as a cold-blooded killer who targeted the weak. The defense, however, argued that he was a victim of entrapment, lured into a world of crime by circumstances beyond his control. The trial captivated the nation, turning Johnson into a household name for all the wrong reasons.

Behind Bars

Johnson was ultimately convicted and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. However, his story didn't end there. Johnson remained a fascinating figure even while in prison. Journalists, filmmakers, and fans of true crime continued to delve into his past in an effort to comprehend what motivated a man who appeared to be normal to commit such heinous acts.

Netflix's Take on the Story

"Hit Man" on Netflix tells more than just Johnson's crimes; it delves deeply into his mind and considers the potential causes of his dark transformation. The series presents a nuanced representation of Johnson, mixing dramatic reenactments with interviews from those who knew him and experts who studied his case.

A Reflection on Human Nature

What makes Gary Johnson's story so compelling isn't just the sheer audacity of his crimes, but what it reveals about the human condition. How does a normal person develop the capacity for extraordinary evil? "Hit Man" compels us to confront uncomfortable questions about morality, free will, and the thin line between good and evil.

Why We're Hooked

True crime novels like Gary Johnson's are more than just tales of wrongdoing; they serve as mirrors that reveal our deepest anxieties and questions. They challenge our preconceived notions regarding human nature and serve as a reminder that the most perilous monsters may at times be those who live among us unnoticed.

Conclusion

"Hit Man's" depiction of Gary Johnson's story is a chilling reminder of the darkness that can be concealed beneath the most innocent facades. It is a story that captivates us not only because of the crimes that were committed, but also because it forces us to examine our own inner world and ask ourselves what is right and wrong. As you binge-watch "Hit Man" on Netflix, remember that the most staggering stories are often the ones rooted in reality. And Gary Johnson's story is a stark, unforgettable example of just that.

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    TOWritten by Toyin Olajide

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