Ruby Franke, the parenting advice YouTuber whose channel once brought in $100,000 a month, was convicted of aggravated child abuse alongside her business partner Jodi Hildebrandt, according to BBC Two’s documentary Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke. The case exposed how monetization and the pursuit of millions of subscribers can prioritize online clicks over family wellbeing, culminating in severe child abuse discovered when an emaciated child sought help from a neighbor.
The Rise of the Momfluencer Economy and High Earnings
At the zenith of her popularity, Ruby Franke’s YouTube channel amassed millions of subscribers while pulling in substantial revenue. According to coverage of the documentary, the channel generated approximately $100,000 a month. Operating out of Springville, Utah, the family initially shared seemingly innocent snippets of daily life.
However, according to statements in the documentary from daughter Shari, the home environment quickly transformed into a workplace. Shari recalls that her entire schedule revolved around YouTube, noting that the house began to feel more like a production set than a home. The pursuit of digital engagement overshadowed basic domestic stability, establishing a pattern where children were utilized as content for public consumption.
Behind the Picket Fences: Control and Isolation
Behind the idyllic small-town facade, control mechanisms tightened. According to the documentary, Franke viewed her children and her husband, Kevin Franke, as objects to be manipulated. Long before achieving momfluencer fame, Kevin recalls finding a list his future spouse had made outlining requirements for potential suitors, which he resolved to fulfill.
As the channel grew, dissent was heavily penalized. Teenager Chad was admonished by his mother for refusing to play happy for the camera and was forced to sleep on a bean bag for months on end, according to family accounts in the program. The dynamic shifted further when business partner and mentor Jodi Hildebrandt entered the picture. Hildebrandt eventually expelled Kevin from the business, leading him to file for divorce in 2023, though he still insists in interviews that he loves his wife.
Did You Know?
True crime and documentary coverage of influencer culture has surged on streaming platforms like Disney+, with programs like Devil in the Family examining the hidden realities behind curated digital lifestyles.
Discovery of Abuse and Legal Consequences
The situation metastasized into full-fledged abuse, which came to light when one of Franke’s malnourished and injured children knocked on a neighbor’s door asking to be taken to a local police station. Authorities investigated and uncovered severe mistreatment orchestrated by both Franke and Hildebrandt.
Both women were subsequently convicted of aggravated child abuse and sentenced to prison terms they are currently serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ruby Franke?
Ruby Franke is a former parenting advice YouTuber who ran a popular channel featuring her family before being convicted of aggravated child abuse.
What led to Ruby Franke’s arrest?
Authorities intervened after one of her children escaped, sought help from a neighbor with severe injuries and malnourishment, and prompted a police investigation.
Who was Jodi Hildebrandt?
Jodi Hildebrandt was Franke’s counselor, business partner, and co-defendant who was also convicted of aggravated child abuse.
What happened to the Franke children?
The sources do not provide information on where the children were placed following the investigation.
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