A Netflix true crime documentary, executively produced by Louis Theroux, has ignited controversy and conversation among viewers. Netflix’s latest true crime documentary, “Tell Them You Love Me,” has left viewers deeply disturbed and divided. The documentary, executively produced by Louis Theroux and directed by Nick August-Perna, delves into the controversial case of Anna Stubblefield, a philosophy professor convicted of a crime stemming from her relationship with a non-verbal man with cerebral palsy.
The Unlikely True Crime Meeting

In 2009, Stubblefield, then 41 years old, met Derrick Johnson, a 30-year-old non-verbal man with cerebral palsy. Their paths crossed through Derrick’s brother, John, who was a student in one of Stubblefield’s courses at Rutgers University. Stubblefield, whose parents had dedicated their careers to working with individuals with disabilities, offered to help Derrick improve his communication skills.
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A Controversial Relationship

Stubblefield’s assistance led to Derrick enrolling in a class at the university. She claims that a consensual sexual relationship developed between them, a claim vehemently disputed by Derrick’s mother, Daisy Johnson. Daisy maintains that her son was incapable of giving consent due to his disability.
The Trial and Conviction

The documentary chronicles the tumultuous relationship between Stubblefield and Derrick, culminating in a criminal trial and felony conviction. Stubblefield was initially convicted of aggravated sexual assault and sentenced to 12 years in prison. However, her conviction was overturned on appeal, leading to a retrial. In 2018, she pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of aggravated criminal sexual contact, while still maintaining her innocence.
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Viewer Reactions: A Divided Audience

Since its release, “Tell Them You Love Me” has sparked intense discussions on social media. Many viewers have expressed their discomfort and unease with the documentary’s subject matter. Some have found themselves conflicted, seeing both sides of the complex issue. Others have criticized the documentary for its portrayal of the individuals involved and the sensitive nature of the case.
Netflix’s Description and the True Crime Film’s Impact

Netflix describes the documentary as “scandalous” and explores “the controversial relationship between a professor and a nonverbal man that leads to a trial over race, disability, and power.” The documentary has undoubtedly ignited a conversation about these critical issues, leaving viewers to grapple with the complexities of consent, disability, and the power dynamics inherent in relationships.
A True Crime Documentary That Provokes Thought and Discomfort

“Tell Them You Love Me” is a documentary that challenges viewers to confront difficult questions about consent, disability, and the ethics of relationships. While it has sparked controversy and divided opinions, it has also succeeded in generating a much-needed conversation about these important issues. It remains a must-watch for those seeking a thought-provoking and deeply unsettling true crime documentary.
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