Hulu Takes On "Highly Controversial" Ruby Franke Case With New Documentary

ruby franke documentaryruby franke documentary

Motherhood has been the topic of several conversations in recent years, but no one expected to see the rise of the popular "mom-fluencer" — or the stark decline of them á la Ruby Franke.

The mom-fluencer is sometimes been portrayed as the mom who's always smiling with her kids in pictures or as the mom who doesn't have it all together. Nonetheless, you can count of seeing BTS moments of her family's "hectic" lives, DIY activities, and fun vacations. We don't think anything is wrong with creating genuine family content, but portraying yourself as a wholesome mom who loves her kids when you're abusive is devilish.

Ruby Franke detailed a beautiful family life on YouTube, but it became clear something was amiss and once the disgraced counselor Jodi Hildebrandt entered the Frankes' lives, things took a terrifying turn for the worse which led to Ruby being arrested for child abuse in 2023.

For the first time, Ruby Franke's ex-husband Kevin Franke and their two oldest children are ready to tell their side of the story in a new Hulu documentary and it's as chilling as you'd expect.

Everything to know about the upcoming documentary on Ruby Franke's highly controversial story:

\u200bRuby Franke documentary

Hulu

Ruby Franke

Hulu's no stranger to covering true crime and other documentaries,y so it's no surprise they're willing to explore Ruby Franke's case. Appropriately titled Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke, this documentary's primary goal is to understand what happened to the Frankes.

The world's introduction to the family was via their Eight Passengers YouTube channel (second page dedicated to them) which was spearheaded by family matriarch Ruby Franke. Featuring short vlogs about life with "six active kids," it was meant to be a space so they could "find true joy in the journey." Despite the fact Kevin Franke revealed their main channel was bringing in over $100,000, there didn't seem to be a ton of job behind the scenes given the crime-ridden fallout (via Vanity Fair).

But, don't expect to look at Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke from a true crime angle.

Disney/Kai Pfaffenbach

Kevin Franke

"I know everyone expects this to be true crime, but I’ve watched true-crime documentaries, and this isn't it," Kevin Franke said in an interview with Vanity Fair. Even the documentary's director Olly Lambert said he's "never made, and would never make just a true-crime thing," although the media outlet pointed out he directed Abused: The Untold Story which details Jimmy Savile's salacious crimes.

Viewers will be able to see snippets from prior vlogs that include Ruby Franke's double personalities and also seems to explain how Kevin Franke was duped into allowing Jodi Hildebrandt to live with the couple in 2021. According to Lambert, he believes this is one of the ways she was able to manipulate the family. "We’ve met quite a lot of people who worked with Jodi, and it was a very common theme that Jodi really was gifted at seeing through people—reading them with such accuracy. But she used it to such bad ends, because she very quickly…what she would see is a way to exploit people. A way to manipulate them," (via Vanity Fair).

Kevin Franke also said, "One of the things that’s been so frustrating for me has been feeling silenced or muzzled—not being able to speak and having people make assumptions that just aren’t accurate." From his POV, this gives him the chance to "take control" of the narrative that's been spun about him.

Disney/Kai Pfaffenbach

Shari Franke

This may stem from the book he and Ruby Franke's daughter, Shari Franke, released last month. Titled The House of My Mother: A Daughter's Quest for Freedom, it sheds light on how controlling her mother was. Not only that, but Shari points out the religious fanaticism her mother succumbed to and the daunting reality of Jodi Hildebrandt's coaching program "ConneXions."

From her perspective, she felt her father wasn't actively present which gave her mom freedom to impose her strong will onto the Franke children.

Disney/Kai Pfaffenbach

Chad Franke

In Chad Franke's case, he never seemed like he wanted to be a part of the YouTube channel. There are moments in Devil in the Family where he doesn't seem enthusiastic about being on camera which prompted his sister Shari to say things like "pretend like you're happy" or "act like you're happy" (via Vanity Fair).

He also revealed the stark difference between how his mom acted when she was filmed and when she wasn't. "...there was a large difference between her just telling me to be myself, and then, you know, when we were doing a brand deal or working with a company — then I was to say exactly what the company would ask me to say."

It makes sense he celebrated the anniversary of his mom's arrest last year by writing "Happy Prisonversary" over her picture on social media (via PEOPLE).

Hulu

Ruby Franke

Throughout the documentary, it feels that Kevin Franke took a passive approach to being in his children's lives which led to Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt taking advantage of them. Vanity Fair recounted how Ruby even resorted to saying she believed her children were under demonic possession and needed to save her kids.

Whatever the case, the Franke children will have to heal from the trauma inflicted on them by someone who should've been protecting and loving them. It's a sad situation that should've never resulted in Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke being filmed, but we're glad someone decided to allow siblings Shari and Chad Franke a chance to share their side of the story.

You can watch all episodes of Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke on Hulu starting today!

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While I love seeing BookTok-viral novels get turned into movies (hello It Ends With Us!), it's just as fun to see them get turned into TV shows, like Fourth Wing — which is why I had such high hopes for A Court of Thorns and Roses at Hulu...before it got canceled. But believe it or not, the fantasy series cancellation could actually a good thing.

Here's the latest update on the A Court of Thorns and Roses show.

Is the ACOTAR TV show still happening?

KoolShooters/Pexels

A Court of Thorns and Roses TV show has officially be scrapped at Disney’s 20th Television, according to Variety. But ACOTAR fans, don't give up hope! Sarah J. Maas was working with Outlander creator Ronald D. Moore, but now Variety's sources say that after the rights expire at Disney, SJM will be shopping the rights to an ACOTAR show to a different studio and platform.

Honestly, I'm totally here for this because a platform like Prime or Max would provide a different kind of edge and aesthetic to the series that would serve it in a different way. And if we have to wait a little longer for a platform SJM feels most aligned with, I'm willing to stick it out!

On February 27, 2024, Sarah J. Maas reportedly went out to coffee with Margot Robbie. Margot's production company (LuckyChap) has backed projects like I, Tonya, Promising Young Woman, Saltburn. Everything Margot touches turns to gold so I really hope she eventually ends up on the creative team for A Court of Thorns and Roses!

Who plays Rhysand in ACOTAR?

Jared Subia/Unsplash

We never got an official cast announcement, but there are plenty of ACOTAR fancasts.

Hannah Dodd, who plays Francesca in Netflix's hit series Bridgerton, would be the PERFECT addition to the cast, whether she plays Elain or Feyre. And now, I honestly don't know if I'll be satisfied with anyone else ;). "She is ELAIN," one TikTok user comments. "Literally copy paste from my brain Elain."

Deuxmoi (via Marie Claire Australia) revealed some potential actors who could be in the running, like Thomas Doherty, Theo James, and Katherine Langford. Actress Brec Bassigner expressed that she'd love to be considered for a role. "I emailed my team, and I was like, ‘Listen, I don’t care if I have one line. I have to be a part of this,'" she says in an interview with TV Line.

Is ACOTAR getting a 6th book?

Amazon

Yes, ACOTAR book 6 is on the way! We don't know who the new book will focus on, but Sarah J. Maas did say she's excited to bring it to us.

"The next book in that series, I have the ideas and general, vague thoughts. But the nitty gritty of writing and the emotional journeys with the characters — I usually love to go on those journeys with them," she said during an appearance on TODAY.

What is A Court of Thorns and Roses about?

Amazon

A Court of Thorns and Roses follows Feyre, a huntress who's forced to live with the immortal faeries after killing a wolf in the woods. The longer she stays in the Fae's world, the more she begins to love it — and the passionate, alluring faerie Tamlin. But as a dark shadow grows, both their world and Tamlin are put in danger, and it's up to Feyre to save them all.

When did the Court of Thorns and Roses series come out?

Amazon

A Court of Thorns and Roses is the first novel in the series of the same name, and was published in 2015. Sarah J. Maas continued the series with A Court of Mist and Fury in 2016, A Court of Wings and Ruin in 2017, A Court of Frost and Starlight in 2018, and A Court of Silver Flames in 2021.

Are you excited for the A Court of Thorns and Roses TV show? Let us know your dream cast in the comments and on TikTok! And read up on The Only ACOTAR Character Breakdown You Need Before Book 6 Comes Out.

This post has been updated.

Piper Ratliff's outfits on The White Lotus are exactly what I'm looking to add to my spring and summer wardrobe for 2025. Piper's (Sarah Catherine Hook) style is the perfect mix of bohemian and classy that gives off a certain laidback elegance. And considering I'm a Carolina girl myself (not to mention I'm actually from the beach), I know exactly how to achieve that ultimate vacation vibe. Here are the best sundresses for a White Lotus look...without any of the drama.

Keep reading for the best sundresses to add some Piper Ratliff & White Lotus magic to your summer wardrobe.

How To Get Piper Ratliff's style from 'The White Lotus.'

Fabio Lovino/HBO

Like I mentioned earlier, all of Piper Ratliff's best outfits are a mix of three things: bohemian, classy, and fitted. While the aesthetic is giving girl off duty, her attention to detail means she always looks put together. Because if you ask me, that's the secret to always looking expensive! Her best outfits feature pieces that are fitted in a flattering way, her accessories are intentional, and everything in her outfit is working together. In this case, less is more.

8 Dresses For Summer 2025 Piper Ratliff Would Approve Of

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Emerson Poplin Wide Strap Midi Dress

This gorgeous dress is perfect for both spring and summer, and it's flirty while still offering plenty of coverage. Plus the blue and white color combo is so giving Carolina.

Madewell

Madewell Seamed Squareneck Midi Dress

To channel Piper's more minimalist outfits, this khaki dress is flattering, elevated, and it lets your accessories take center stage.

J. Crew

J. Crew Squareneck Midi Dress

If you prefer to keep your accessories, low-key, a printed dress will do all the heavy lifting for you. And this print is totally giving White Lotus!

Old Navy

Old Navy Fit & Flare Lightweight Smocked Gingham Midi Dress

You can never have too many fit and flair dresses if you ask me. Especially when they feature fluttery sleeves and a dreamy gingham print.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie LSPACE Calla Midi Dress

For the ultimate beachy look, opt for a lightweight, strappy dress. You can wear it over your bathing suit during the day or a colorful bodysuit at night.

J. Crew

J. Crew Fitted-Waist Shirtdress

If there's anything that makes sense for a preppy Carolina girl, it's a collar. Add some raffia sandals for a Piper Ratliff-approved boho edge.

Anthropologie

By Anthropologie Strapless Drop-Waist Midi Dress

Y'all, I can't stop thinking about this dress. The silhouette! The color! The detail! It's the perfect thing to pack for any vacation...whether or not you're showing up to a White Lotus resort. ;)

Amazon

CUPSHE Beach Dress

Comfy, casual, and some eye-catching details? Sign me up.

Which Piper Ratliff-inspired look will you be rocking this summer? Don't forget to read up on Everything You Need To Know About The WhiteLotus Season Finale.

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The White Lotus season 3 has plenty of drama onscreen, but according to actor Jason Isaacs (who plays North Carolina patriarch Timothy Ratliff), there was more than enough drama off camera, too. WHAT! The Harry Potter actor described filming the latest season of Mike White's TV sensation "like a cross between summer camp and Lord of the Flies but in a gilded cage." Now that sounds like a great pitch for The White Lotus season 4.

Here's what Jason Isaacs had to say about filming with theWhite Lotus cast — including Patrick Schwarzenegger, Sarah Catherine Hook, and Sam Nivola — in Thailand.

Jason Isaacs says filming 'The White Lotus' wasn't a vacation.

Despite the fact their White Lotus characters are on vacation, Jason Isaacs says that filming the latest installment "wasn’t a holiday."

"Some people got very close, there were friendships that were made and friendships that were lost," he tells Vulture. "All the things you would imagine with a group of people unanchored from their home lives on the other side of the world, in the intense pressure cooker of the working environment with eye-melting heat and insects and late nights."

"They say in the show, 'What happens in Thailand stays in Thailand,' but there’s an off-screen White Lotus as well, with fewer deaths but just as much drama," he continues.

Some of 'The White Lotus' cast got along better than others.

So it sounds like the environment of filming The White Lotus added a whole new layer of nuance to what we see in the series thanks to some potential IRL tension...now I need a whole series just about filming this show. But just like with any social scenario, Jason says some people hit it off while others didn't get along quite as well.

"I became very close to some people and less close to others, but we still all had that experience together and there’s a certain level of discretion required," Jason says.

And while he became close with his onscreen children, Jason doesn't confirm that real-life dynamic is what we see onscreen every Sunday. After all, acting is the job, no matter what's happening in the real world.

But Jason Isaacs got "very close" with his onscreen kids.

"I just try to be Tim Ratliff in his situation. Does the fact that I spent a lot of time particularly with Patrick [Schwarzenegger], Sarah Catherine [Hook], and Sam [Nivola], and became very close to them, make any difference? I don’t know," he admits. "I’ve played opposite people I barely knew and we looked like we absolutely loved each other. I’ve played with people I know very well and the relationships don’t work. I can talk about the dynamic but whether it bled into the work or not, I have no idea."

Catch up on Everything You Need To Know About The White Lotus Season Finale before the final episode airs on April 6, 2025 on HBO and Max.

The World Happiness Report for 2025 is officially here, and there's a LOT to take away from it — including the happiest countries around the world that you can visit and live in this year. Whether there's better healthcare, more community, and everything in between, some places really are just happier than others. So, without further ado, these are officially the most happy countries in the world for 2025!

Scroll to see what the happiest countries in the world are for 2025!

When did the 2025 World Happiness Report come out?

Yan Krukau

The 2025 World Happiness Report was aptly released on March 20, the International Day of Happiness!

What does the World Happiness Report measure?

FbyF Studio

Published by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford, the report is based on data from the Gallup World Poll, which surveys individuals in over 140 countries. It ranks nations by happiness using the average life evaluations over the past three years, specifically from 2022 to 2024.

Participants in the survey rate their overall life satisfaction, and these self-assessments determine the rankings. To better understand the factors influencing happiness, the report examines six key indicators: GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy, social support, generosity, personal freedom, and perceptions of corruption.

What rank is USA in World Happiness Report?

Samson Katt

This year, the United States isn't faring so well. This year, our nation dropped to its lowest ranking ever: number 24.

According to Illana Ron-Levey, Gallup's managing director, some of the United States' decline in happiness was "at least partly attributable to Americans younger than age 30 feeling worse about their lives."

Why would some people be less happy in 2025?

Vlada Karpovich

"Today's young people report feeling less supported by friends and family, less free to make life choices, and less optimistic about their living standards," she added.

The good news is that the research shows people are generally kinder than we assume, and recognizing this could boost our happiness and transform how we perceive those around us.

Moreover, there are plenty of extremely happy countries that make desirable travel destinations. Here are some that topped the list in satisfaction.

Paul Theodor Oja

2025's Happiest Countries In The World

It may not come as a shock that Finland has taken first place for the eighth year in a row. The nation boasts many beneficial policies and initiatives, such as universal health care, as well as a strong social support and education infrastructure. It also has a very low crime rate.

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, too, from soaking up the northern lights under the Arctic sky to hiking in one of Finland's 41 national parks, seeing breathtaking architecture, experiencing Midsummer, a celebration of the summer solstice, and, of course, trying Finnish food.

The runners-up to Finland include Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden in second, third, and fourth place, respectively. Just like Finland, these three countries held onto their global happiness ranking from 2024.

Damir K

Those hoping to visit Denmark can explore its capital city, Copenhagen, which is rich in museums and other cultural experiences, learn about the fascinating history of Vikings, and dine at Michelin award-winning restaurants.

Rudy Kirchner

Over in Iceland, experience unbelievable 24-hour daylight from mid-May to late July, go whale watching, take a diving tour or guided snorkeling trip at Thingvellir National Park, traverse glaciers, relax in geothermal spas, and walk along beautiful black sand beaches.

Shvets Anna

Finally, in Sweden, there are various vibrant cities to check out, like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. Pop fans must visit the ABBA museum, while culinary connoisseurs need to try authentic Swedish meatballs, and nature lovers can take in all the natural beauty that Sweden is renowned for.

Aside from the Nordic countries, which are dominating the globe in terms of happiness, two Latin American countries also made it into the top 10 for the very first time. Costa Rica ranked at number six, and Mexico at number 10.

Diego Madrigal

If you travel to Costa Rica, you can embark on all kinds of adventures, from hiking and zip-lining to surfing and river rafting.

Bryan Martinez

Or, in Mexico, see the archaeological site Chichen Itza, take a delicious food tour, and sit back on the sand of some stunning beaches.

What's the full list of the happiest countries in the world for 2025?

Kristoffer Brink Jonsson

  1. Finland
  2. Denmark
  3. Iceland
  4. Sweden
  5. Netherlands
  6. Costa Rica
  7. Norway
  8. Israel
  9. Luxembourg
  10. Mexico
  11. Australia
  12. New Zealand
  13. Switzerland
  14. Belgium
  15. Ireland
  16. Lithuania
  17. Austria
  18. Canada
  19. Slovenia
  20. Czechia
  21. United Arab Emirates
  22. Germany
  23. United Kingdom
  24. United States
  25. Belize

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Raffia sandals are going to be huge for spring fashion this year, and since warmer weather provides the perfect excuse to swap out your heavy boots for something a lil' lighter, it’s time to add a pair of raffia sandals to your wardrobe! Whether you’re dressing up for a cutie spring brunch or keeping it pretty casual on vacation, these comfy raffia sandals will be your go-to for every occasion.

Shop our 9 favorite raffia sandals below!

Target

Wild Fable Elide Raffia Fisherman Platform Heels

With the flair of the fisherman aesthetic, these platform sandals lean a little bit bold to make easy 'fits (like jeans and a white tee or linen pants and a tank) truly stand out.

DSW

Anne Klein Roe Sandals

The heels on these cuties definitely make them a fit for formal occasions. Got an Easter party on the cal? Well, you've officially found your shoe! What we love the most about this pair is the black scalloped accents on the straps that instantly add a playful vibe.

Free People

Jeffrey Campbell Cabo Nights Embellished Sandals

Easy to slip right into, these raffia sandals boast some eye-catching crystals to make any spring outfit feel a lil' bit bougie. Though these do have some height to them in the flatform design, the insole is impressively soft and cushiony for all-day comfort.

Anthropologie

Dolce Vita Wriley Raffia Platform Sandals

With some added visual oomph from the bold black lining, these raffia sandals also come with extra reinforcements around the ankle strap to stabilize your step. This is a great pair to snag if you love the look of raffia sandals but want your shoe game to stand out from more traditional styles!

DSW

Crown Vintage Dylann Sandals

Not all raffia sandals have to be the classic tan color – we adore this stunning orange colorway because it's downright perfect for wearing on spring and summer vacations. If you're jetting off to somewhere beachy soon, this pair would look simply iconic with a flowy white sundress or a tasteful matching set for that epic post-beach dinner.

Nordstrom

Steve Madden Bigmona Raffia Platform Sandals

The chunky platform and wide base on these raffia sandals add to their insane comfort level. What's more is the insoles are super soft to handle step after step! You can also easily adjust the straps on these babies to find your ideal fit. If you're one to get your steps in, you'll undoubtedly enjoy walking in these – no matter where you go!

Anthropologie

SIMONMILLER Cloudy Raffia Platform Slide Sandals

Ooh, the puffy feel of these green raffia sandals make 'em feel so retro (in the best way possible). These are the pair to shop if you tend to like a good pop of color on your feet to balance out more neutral 'fits.

DSW

Crown Vintage Leah Sandals

For a casual look, these low-profile raffia sandals are wonderfully easy to wear. They have a slight wedge heel to make them look more polished, plus dual straps to secure your feet with every stride!

Nordstrom

Dolce Vita Holis Fisherman Sandals

Complete with a chic preppy look, these fisherman-style raffia sandals supply a bit more coverage around the toes, but are still generously breathable for hot days. They're simple to secure, too, thanks to the side buckles.

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