A new and deeply unsettling true crime documentary has landed on Netflix, delving into one of the most disturbing cases of recent years. 'Evil Influencer: The Jodi Hildebrandt Story' investigates the harrowing child abuse perpetrated by YouTube vlogger Ruby Franke and family counsellor Jodi Hildebrandt in Utah.
The Chilling Case Unfolds
The documentary traces how Hildebrandt, founder of the life-coaching firm ConneXions, became a dangerously influential figure in the life of Franke, a mother of six known for her controversial '8 Passengers' YouTube channel. Their connection began at their local church in Utah. Hildebrandt became obsessed with 'correcting' Franke's family, employing manipulative tactics that led to severe abuse of two of Franke's children.
The case broke in 2023 when Franke's 12-year-old son escaped from Hildebrandt's home. Security footage showed the malnourished boy pleading with a neighbour for food and water and asking to be taken to the police. When officers searched the property, they made a heartbreaking discovery: his younger sister was found similarly starved, with a shaven head, sitting in a closet. Ropes and handcuffs were hidden in a safe room.
Convictions and Critical Reception
In February 2024, both women were found guilty on four counts of aggravated child abuse. They each received sentences of four consecutive terms of one to 15 years and are now serving time separately at the Utah State Correctional Facility. Director Skye Borgman told Netflix's Tudum, "If that young boy hadn't escaped that day, I think those kids probably wouldn't be with us today."
The film has faced criticism for its grim subject matter. The Guardian's Lucy Mangan called it "supremely grubby" and "twisted," questioning the ethics of producing such content. However, it includes measured accounts from those involved, including police detective Jessica Bate, who led the investigation.
A Legacy of Manipulation and Control
The documentary exposes how Hildebrandt, who started counselling in Utah in 2005, used psychological manipulation to control and isolate clients. She partnered with Franke in 2022 to launch a joint YouTube channel, ConneXions, and an Instagram account called Moms of Truth, offering parenting advice. Following her conviction, Hildebrandt's clinical mental health counselling licence was revoked by Utah authorities.
The identities of the four Franke children, all minors, remain protected. 'Evil Influencer: The Jodi Hildebrandt Story' is available to stream on Netflix now, serving as a stark warning about the potential for manipulation and abuse hidden behind online personas and trusted community figures.
