Evil Influencer: The Jodi Hildebrandt Story is a 2025 American true-crime documentary from the United States, blending investigative journalism and social-issue analysis.
The film is directed by a Netflix documentary team and written by investigative producers specializing in abuse and cult dynamics.
It centers on Jodi Hildebrandt, with extensive discussion of Ruby Franke, law enforcement officials, former clients, and journalists.
The documentary examines how Hildebrandt used her authority as a licensed mental health counselor to manipulate families and enable severe child abuse.
The film premieres on Netflix on December 30, 2025, and is distributed globally by Netflix.
Evil Influencer: The Jodi Hildebrandt Story Age Rating
Evil Influencer: The Jodi Hildebrandt Story is rated TV-MA for disturbing thematic content involving child abuse, graphic descriptions of torture, and intense psychological manipulation.
This rating reflects material intended strictly for mature audiences, including emotionally distressing subject matter that may be deeply upsetting for younger viewers.
Violence & Peril
The documentary contains no staged violence but presents severe real-world abuse through detailed accounts and evidence.
Descriptions include children being restrained, deprived of food and water, forced into physical labor, and subjected to painful punishments.
While most violence is described rather than shown, the realism and factual nature make it emotionally intense and disturbing.
Language
There is minimal profanity, mostly appearing in police recordings or emotional interviews. The language itself is not the primary concern, but discussions include emotionally charged terms related to abuse, punishment, and control.
The overall tone is serious and heavy rather than sensational.
Mature Themes
The documentary focuses heavily on child abuse, religious extremism, coercive control, and psychological manipulation.
Themes include misuse of therapy, cult-like ideology, and institutional failure to protect vulnerable children.
There are references to starvation, physical restraint, emotional cruelty, and trauma that may be deeply distressing.
Is Evil Influencer: The Jodi Hildebrandt Story Suitable for Teens?
Ages 12 and under: Not suitable.
The documentary’s content is far too disturbing, with explicit descriptions of real child abuse.
Ages 13–16: Not recommended.
Even mature teens may find the subject matter overwhelming due to its realism and emotional intensity.
Ages 17+: With strong caution.
Older teens interested in true crime or social justice may watch with parental guidance and discussion.
Final Recommendation: Best suited for adults aged 18 and older.
What Parents Can Do
- Prepare viewers by explaining that the documentary involves real child abuse and manipulation.
- Watch together if older teens are interested, and pause to discuss emotional reactions.
- Use the film to talk about warning signs of coercive control and misuse of authority.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Evil Influencer: The Jodi Hildebrandt Story?
A: The documentary is rated TV-MA for disturbing content involving child abuse and psychological manipulation.
Q: Is Evil Influencer appropriate for kids or teens?
A: No. It is intended for adults due to its intense and upsetting real-life subject matter.
Q: Does the documentary show graphic violence?
A: Abuse is mostly described rather than shown, but the details are emotionally graphic and disturbing.
Q: Is there strong language in the film?
A: Language is minimal, but discussions include serious and distressing topics.
Q: Does the film include sexual content?
A: No sexual content is depicted, but severe physical and psychological abuse is discussed.
Q: Where can I watch Evil Influencer: The Jodi Hildebrandt Story?
A: The documentary streams exclusively on Netflix starting December 30, 2025.