The Dark Rise and Fall of Jodi Hildebrandt, the Influencer Who Crossed Every Line
Right now, there’s a lot of discussion around Jodi Hildebrandt, and it’s largely because her story has resurfaced in a chilling new Netflix documentary called Evil Influencer: The Jodi Hildebrandt Story . What makes this case so disturbing isn’t just the crime itself, but how it unfolded behind a carefully crafted image of faith, self-help, and moral authority.
Jodi Hildebrandt was known as a Utah-based life coach and counselor who worked closely with members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She ran a program called ConneXions, which promised guidance on marriage, family, and personal “truth.” Because she appeared on church-approved lists of counselors, she was trusted almost automatically. That trust, it’s now believed, became the foundation for something far darker.
Also Read:- Ricky Gervais Chooses the Sofa Over the Golden Globes
- Ukraine War Update: Zelensky Warns US Support Is Crucial as Fighting Intensifies
The documentary carefully lays out how Hildebrandt gained influence over families, often encouraging separation between spouses and isolating individuals under the guise of spiritual and emotional healing. Former clients describe how shame was used as a tool, especially around sexuality, and how control slowly replaced care. Over time, this influence extended to Ruby Franke, a well-known YouTube vlogger who had built a massive following by sharing her family life online.
What finally shattered the illusion was an escape. In August 2023, a malnourished 12-year-old boy rang a neighbor’s doorbell asking for help. His injuries were severe, and what police later discovered inside Hildebrandt’s home was described as horrifying. Another child was found hidden in a closet, emaciated and terrified. Evidence of restraints and prolonged abuse was uncovered, confirming the boy’s story.
Both Hildebrandt and Franke were arrested and charged with multiple counts of aggravated child abuse. Court records later revealed journals detailing the abuse, which had been justified through distorted religious reasoning. In December 2023, Hildebrandt pleaded guilty, followed by sentencing in early 2024. She received multiple consecutive prison terms, with the total time to be determined by the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole.
The documentary itself has sparked debate. While it is praised for its calm, methodical storytelling and firsthand testimony from investigators and victims, it also raises uncomfortable questions about true-crime entertainment. Are these stories being told to understand and prevent future harm, or are they feeding a cycle of voyeurism?
As the credits roll, one thing feels clear: this isn’t just a story about one woman’s crimes. It’s a warning about unchecked authority, blind trust, and how easily cruelty can be hidden behind confidence, charisma, and claims of moral certainty.
Read More:
0 Comments