Hulu's latest docuseries, "Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke," delves into the unsettling true story of Ruby Franke, a once-popular family vlogger whose facade of a perfect household concealed a disturbing reality. Premiering on February 27, 2025, the three-part series offers an in-depth examination of the events leading to Franke's arrest and conviction for child abuse.
The Rise of '8 Passengers'
Ruby Franke gained prominence through her YouTube channel, "8 Passengers," which she launched in 2015. The channel showcased the daily lives of the Franke family, portraying a wholesome and disciplined environment that resonated with nearly 3 million subscribers at its peak. Viewers were drawn to the family's seemingly upright values and parenting approach.
Unraveling the Facade
Despite the channel's success, concerns began to surface regarding Ruby's stringent parenting methods. Incidents such as denying her children basic necessities as punishment sparked debates about the ethics of her disciplinary tactics. The situation escalated when Ruby partnered with counselor Jodi Hildebrandt, whose controversial guidance appeared to intensify the severity of the household's environment.
The Breaking Point
The turning point occurred in August 2023, when Ruby's 12-year-old son escaped from the family's residence, exhibiting signs of malnutrition and physical restraint. This alarming event led to the immediate arrest of Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt on multiple counts of aggravated child abuse. In February 2024, both were convicted, with Ruby receiving a sentence ranging from 4 to 30 years in prison.
Insights from 'Devil in the Family'
"Devil in the Family" provides exclusive interviews with key figures, including Ruby's estranged husband, Kevin Franke, and their eldest children, Shari and Chad. These personal accounts shed light on the family's internal dynamics and the gradual shift from a nurturing environment to one overshadowed by control and fear. The series also features previously unseen footage from the "8 Passengers" channel, juxtaposing the curated online persona with the unsettling off-camera reality.
The Aftermath and Reflection
In the wake of these revelations, discussions have emerged about the ethical implications of family vlogging and the potential exploitation of children in pursuit of online fame. The Franke case serves as a cautionary tale, prompting a reevaluation of privacy boundaries and the responsibilities of content creators who involve minors in their digital narratives.
"Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke" is now streaming exclusively on Hulu, offering a comprehensive exploration of this complex and harrowing story.