The TV movie The Pastor’s Wife is based on the true story of Tennessee pastor Matthew Winkler and his wife Mary. In 2006, the 31-year-old pastor was found dead at their home (he was shot in the back). When the pastor was found by members of his Fourth Street Church of Christ, Mary and their three daughters (8, 6, and 1) were missing. When they were found in Alabama, Mary was charged with murder. Mary Winkler confessed that she shot her husband and claimed she suffered from emotional, sexual, and physical spousal abuse. In 2007, Mary Winkler was found guilty of manslaughter and sentenced to three years in prison. After her release she was given full custody of her children.
[The Pastor’s Wife is based on the book: The Pastor’s Wife: The True Story of a Minister and the Shocking Death that Divided a Family
In the TV movie, Mary is portrayed by Rose McGowan. Pastor Matthew Winkler is portrayed by Michael Shanks. The Canadian-born actor is best known for his roles on Saving Hope
