This show was likely based on a real case about a murder spree by the McCrary family of Athens, Texas. They were suspected in more than 20 murders, mostly of young women who were last seen alive at donut shops in Colorado, Texas, Florida, Kansas City and Utah in 1970 and 1971.
Rene's beauty shop is supposedly located on the island of Hawaii, but when Rosalie comes through the front door to inquire about a beautician job, Toyo's Superette is seen in the background. It was a local landmark located at East Manoa Road and Keama Place in Honolulu.
The family's "redneck" attitude is clearly evident as they are taking lunch at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. Sadie is shocked at a couple behind them and comments, "She's eatin' with an Oriental - that white woman ... got no shame at all! Next place we get to, I want you to make sure first it's for white folks only."
When Dano is investigating the crime scene at the gasoline station, a large crowd of people is seen standing in the background viewing the filming.