Netflix
A new Netflix miniseries dramatizes the story of Belle Gibson, an Australian influencer who lied about having a terminal illness to promote alternative therapies. A decade on, the miniseries serves as a stark warning about the dangers of believing questionable health claims on social media.
Back in 2013, Belle Gibson, then 20, gained widespread attention by claiming she had beaten a “malignant brain cancer” through natural means. Her journey of “healing” inspired thousands and launched a successful wellness app and cookbook, with Gibson credited with curing herself with a diet and holistic practices.
However, Gibson’s narrative was riddled with inconsistencies. In 2015, she admitted that the entire story was untrue. Gibson had never been diagnosed with the cancers she had publicized, and her claims about false charity donations further damaged her credibility.
How Her Story Is Dramatised
Netflix’s Apple Cider Vinegar delves into Gibson’s fraudulent saga, blending reality with fiction to explore her mental gymnastics and the chaotic timeline of events. The miniseries embraces Gibson’s shifting narratives with a disclaimer: “This is a true-ish story based on a lie.”
The show positions Gibson as the epitome of hustle culture gone awry. Kaitlyn Dever portrays her with a duplicitous charm, highlighting the fine line between vision and deception. The series juxtaposes Gibson with other influencers and real-life victims who were misled by her claims.
Alamy
Apple Cider Vinegar also explores the broader context of wellness scams that have deceived countless individuals online. It features fictional characters like Milla Blake, inspired by Jessica Ainscough, who dedicated her blog to combating her terminal illness but ultimately faced the same fate.
The series highlights how Gibson’s fraudulent activities could have encouraged cancer patients to abandon conventional treatments in favor of unproven alternatives. Such practices can be perilous, as seen in cases like Hongchi Xiao, convicted of manslaughter for promoting dangerous health practices.
What Happened Next?
Following Gibson’s admission, she faced legal consequences. In 2017, she was found guilty of five consumer law breaches and ordered to repay A$410,000 (£205,000) to the state of Victoria. The full extent of her unpaid fines exceeds A$500,000 (£250,000).
Doctor Marc Feldman coined the term “Munchausen by internet,” describing individuals who join support groups under false pretenses. Gibson’s behavior raises questions about whether she was a patient or a perpetrator, but her audacious fraud and misappropriation of funds suggest the latter.
Netflix
Gibson’s story serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the importance of skepticism when engaging with health advice on social media. Recent cases, like the convicted Brazilian wellness influencer Kat Torres, highlight the ongoing risks of trusting unqualified sources.
The series’ final episode subverts the typical “what happened next?” postscript, prompting viewers to research Gibson’s fate independently. This approach invites reflection on the power of media and the importance of critical thinking.
Apple Cider Vinegar is available to stream now on Netflix from February 6, offering a compelling and sobering look at one of the most notorious wellness scams in recent history.
While the truth about Gibson remains elusive, Apple Cider Vinegar serves as a powerful reminder to scrutinize health claims and seek verified medical advice.
Apple Cider Vinegar is available to stream now on Netflix from 6 February
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