In a shocking turn of events that has captivated the nation, Ruby Franke, a once-popular mommy vlogger from the YouTube channel “8 Passengers,” is facing serious consequences following her conviction for aggravated child abuse. With a significant audience and over 2.5 million subscribers, Ruby’s fall from grace has left many wondering how a family that seemed so perfect could result in such devastating circumstances. Hulu has recently announced a new docuseries that will dive deep into Ruby’s life, her family dynamics, and the unfortunate chain of events leading to her arrest.
Hulu’s Upcoming Docuseries
Hulu has ordered a three-part docuseries titled “Devil In The Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke”. This series, set to premiere on February 27th, will uncover the dark side of familial relationships and the consequences of child exploitation in the world of social media. Produced by Passion Pictures and directed by Olly Lambert, the docuseries aims to shed light on the troubling issues this family faced behind closed doors. The series promises to include never-before-seen footage from Ruby’s YouTube channel that her followers think they knew so well.
The Charges Against Ruby Franke
In August 2023, Ruby Franke and her associate Jodi Hildebrandt were charged with aggravated child abuse after a brave escape by Ruby’s 12-year-old son revealed a horrifying truth. Authorities discovered that two of Ruby’s children had been living in a severely neglectful environment, described by some as “concentration camp-like” conditions. As a result, Ruby and Jodi received prison sentences ranging from four to thirty years for their actions.
Shari Franke’s Heartfelt Memoir
Adding emotional depth to this tragic story, Ruby’s daughter, Shari Franke, has released a memoir titled *House of My Mother*. In her book, Shari reveals her experiences growing up in a household that was not what it appeared to be. She openly discusses her struggles and the abusive environment she and her siblings endured. Furthermore, Shari’s memoir details how her mother’s relationship with Jodi, described as a “cult-like” influence, affected family dynamics and ultimately led to the family’s painful unraveling.
The Franke Family’s Current Situation
Since the arrest, the four younger Franke children have been placed under protective services, which has brought some relief to concerned observers. Reports indicate that the children are doing significantly better, with some officials stating that they are now “light-years better” than when they were at home with Ruby. Meanwhile, Shari has become an outspoken advocate against family vlogging, highlighting the need for laws that protect child influencers from exploitation.
Impact of Family Vlogging
Shari Franke’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the potential dangers lurking beneath the surface of family vlogs. While many families share their lives online to entertain and connect with audiences, not all moments are filled with love and positivity. Shari passionately argues that vlogging can ruin children’s innocence and affect their privacy and safety. Currently, only three states in the U.S. have laws to protect child influencers, prompting her call for a nationwide change.
Looking Forward
As Ruby Franke’s story continues to unfold, many will be watching the upcoming docuseries with bated breath. It promises to provide an inside look at the intimate details of her life and the aftermath of her actions. Hulu’s docuseries is expected not only to educate viewers about the dangers of family vlogging but also to explore the heartbreaking realities faced by the children involved. The Franke family’s story is a poignant reminder that not everything we see online is genuine, and it calls for a broader discussion on child welfare and the pressure of internet fame.