ABC 20/20 “Ruby Franke: from Momfluencer to Felon” March 22 2024 Recap & Preview
Get ready for a jaw-dropping episode of ABC’s 20/20, airing on March 22, 2024. This special installment delves into the shocking case of Ruby Franke, once a celebrated momfluencer whose idyllic family videos on YouTube garnered millions of followers. However, beneath the surface of her seemingly perfect life lay a disturbing reality of abuse and neglect.
The program, led by “Nightline” co-anchor Juju Chang, unveils the harrowing details of Ruby Franke’s descent from social media darling to accused felon. Through never-before-seen body camera footage, recorded calls, and Ruby’s own journal entries, viewers will witness the unraveling of the unimaginable abuse suffered by her children.
Additionally, 20/20 features exclusive interviews with key figures involved in the case, including Jodi Hildebrandt’s niece, Jessi Hildebrandt, and individuals directly impacted by the abuse. Expert insights from crime writer Emily Palmer, attorney Randy Kester, and podcast host Jo Piazza provide further context and analysis.
Don’t miss this gripping episode of 20/20 as it sheds light on a heartbreaking story of betrayal, manipulation, and the pursuit of justice. Tune in on March 22 at 9:01 PM EDT on ABC, or catch it the next day on Hulu.
What Happened to Ruby Franke?
Ruby Franke, formerly known as Ruby Griffiths, born on January 18, 1982, gained prominence as a family vlogger on YouTube through her channel “8 Passengers.” Together with her husband Kevin and their six children, she shared their daily life in Utah, garnering a substantial following. However, concerns arose among viewers regarding her disciplinary methods, including instances of alleged child abuse such as withholding food and sending a child to a wilderness camp.
In 2022, amid a decline in channel popularity and marital issues, the Frankes separated, and Ruby deleted the YouTube channel. She transitioned to work as a mental health coach with Jodi Nan Hildebrandt at ConneXions. Nonetheless, suspicions persisted regarding the welfare of her children, leading to her arrest in August 2023 on charges of aggravated child abuse. Investigations revealed severe maltreatment, including malnourishment and physical restraints.
Franke pleaded guilty to four counts of child abuse and was sentenced in February 2024 to serve between one and fifteen years in prison, with the exact term to be determined by the Utah Board of Pardons and Parole. The incident and subsequent legal proceedings resulted in significant repercussions, including Franke’s expulsion from YouTube and the dissolution of her marriage.
Personal aspects of Franke’s life, including her affiliation with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and disapproval from her eldest daughter regarding her parenting methods, further contextualize the situation. Additionally, her sisters, also influencers, distanced themselves from her actions.
