Not My Family: The Monique Smith Story is a powerful new Lifetime original film set to premiere on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. ET.
Based on the real-life memoir I Am The Ancestor: Before I Die, I Must Share My Story by S. Monique Smith, the film tells the deeply emotional and inspiring story of a woman abducted as an infant, raised in an abusive home, and her decades-long quest to uncover her true identity.
The film is part of Lifetime’s Ripped from the Headlines series and stars Yaya DaCosta as Monique Smith, who also serves as an executive producer.
Featuring a strong ensemble cast, the movie sheds light on child abduction, abuse, identity, and resilience, making it both emotionally intense and deeply moving.
Not My Family: The Monique Smith Story Age Rating
My Family: The Monique Smith Story is rated TV-14 for thematic content involving child abuse, abduction, trauma, and emotional distress. Here’s a detailed content breakdown for parents:
Violence
There are no graphic or physical violence scenes, but the story involves psychological and emotional abuse, particularly during Monique’s childhood. Viewers will hear references to abuse and neglect within a non-biological family that raised her. The intensity is more emotional than visual but could be upsetting to younger or sensitive viewers.
Language
The film uses mild to moderate language appropriate for a TV-14 rating. There is no strong profanity, but emotionally charged conversations may include intense dialogue.
Sexual Content
There is no sexual content or nudity. However, themes surrounding human trafficking and child exploitation are referenced as part of Monique’s story. These themes are handled sensitively but may require parental context for younger teens.
Mature Themes
This film deals with heavy and emotional topics, including childhood trauma, identity loss, adoption, human trafficking, and systemic failure. It’s intended to raise awareness and inspire hope, but these themes may be emotionally intense for some viewers. Monique’s perseverance and strength are central, offering positive messages about resilience, justice, and healing.
Is Not My Family: The Monique Smith Story Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10-12: Not recommended. The emotional weight of the subject matter—particularly child abuse and human trafficking—may be too intense and complex for pre-teens, even though the film avoids graphic content.
Ages 13-17: Suitable with guidance. The film can be a valuable educational and emotional experience for teens, especially those 14 and up. Parents are encouraged to watch alongside their teen to help explain and discuss the real-life issues portrayed in the movie.
This film is best for mature teens and adults who can engage with difficult, real-world topics in a meaningful way. While it is not graphic, the emotional impact may require support and discussion.
What Parents Can Do
Watch Together: The film is based on a real story and deals with serious themes. Watching it with your teen can open up important conversations about safety, identity, resilience, and advocacy.
Discuss Real-World Impact: Encourage your teen to learn more about the work Monique Smith does through her foundation, and explore broader issues like child abduction awareness, identity protection, and support systems.
Offer Emotional Support: The themes may resonate deeply with viewers who have experienced trauma. Be available to talk and provide reassurance as needed.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Not My Family: The Monique Smith Story?
A: The film is rated TV-14 for mature thematic content including child abuse, abduction, and emotional trauma.
Q: Is the My Family: The Monique Smith Story violent?
A: No graphic violence is shown, but the story includes emotional and psychological abuse which may be upsetting for younger viewers.
Q: Does the My Family: The Monique Smith Story include sexual content?
A: No, there is no sexual content or nudity, though human trafficking is discussed in context.
Q: Where can I watch My Family: The Monique Smith Story?
A: The movie premieres on Lifetime on April 12, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. ET.
Q: Is My Family: The Monique Smith Story movie based on a true story?
A: Yes, it’s based on the memoir and life of S. Monique Smith, who was abducted as a child and discovered her biological family through DNA testing.
Q: Is Not My Family: The Monique Smith Story appropriate for kids or tweens?
A: No. It is not recommended for children under 13 due to the emotional and mature subject matter.