ITV has discreetly added a true crime documentary series to its streaming platform ITVX that fans are describing as the "wildest" they have ever seen. The three-part programme, titled 'Stolen Youth: Inside the Cult at Sarah Lawrence', is now available to watch for free, having previously premiered on Hulu and Disney Plus in 2023.
A Harrowing Tale of Manipulation
The documentary delves into the disturbing real-life story of students at Sarah Lawrence College in Yonkers, New York, who fell under the cult-like influence of their roommate's father. The series explores how ex-convict Larry Ray moved into a college dormitory and exerted a grim ten-year control over a group of young people.
Unprecedented Access and Chilling Details
An official synopsis highlights that the production features striking first-hand interviews with Ray's victims, alongside personal audio tapes and video recordings. It traces the cult's origins on the Sarah Lawrence campus in 2010 through to its recent demise, documenting the survivors' paths to recovery.
Social media reactions have been intense, with one viewer noting the series' availability on ITVX and calling it a "chilling" watch that is "definitely worth a watch". Another fan, obsessed with cults, stated: "This was up there with one of the wildest ones I've ever watched! So good."
Viewer Reactions and Emotional Impact
Additional comments from audiences reveal the documentary's powerful effect. One person admitted to watching it twice, describing it as "very sad... but definitely a crazy story", while another labelled it "absolutely bonkers". Upon its initial release, viewers expressed feelings of disgust and disturbance, with one social media user calling it "very disturbing and sad" yet "very interesting".
On Reddit, a viewer confessed to being "FLOORED" by the series, adding that it had them hooked and they still think about it years later. An IMDB user echoed this sentiment, noting that the recordings are "horrific" and evoked emotions of anger, sadness, shock, disgust, and frustration, with the final episode bringing them to tears.
'Stolen Youth: Inside the Cult at Sarah Lawrence' remains available for streaming on both Disney Plus and ITVX, offering a compelling and unsettling viewing experience for true crime enthusiasts.
