Inside the Hulu Docuseries Exposing a YouTube Family’s Dark Secrets

Ruby Franke was once known as the devoted mother behind 8 Passengers, a family vlogging YouTube channel that attracted millions of subscribers.

But behind the curated image of wholesome parenting, a much darker reality was unfolding. The Hulu docuseries Devil In The Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke is set to expose the horrific child abuse that happened behind the scenes, as told by her own children.

Blood on the Walls: The Abuse Hidden from Viewers

In one of the most haunting moments from the series, Shari Franke, Ruby’s eldest daughter, reveals that she once helped her younger brother clean blood off the walls after he had been brutally beaten. “I did always feel bad when he got in trouble,” Shari recalls, describing how she watched her brother get a bloody nose from the abuse.

Chad Franke, another of Ruby’s children, opens up about the punishments he endured, which were far worse than what viewers saw on YouTube. “She would spank, whip, take the belt out and whip my butt. Pull down my pants, whip me.” For years, these violent outbursts were hidden from the millions who tuned in, believing they were watching a loving, disciplined family.

From Internet Fame to a Prison Sentence

Ruby Franke and her husband Kevin became internet celebrities, portraying their strict parenting as tough love. But as the years went by, concerns grew over their methods, viewers noticed children being denied food, punished harshly, and left isolated for minor infractions. Despite growing online backlash, Ruby dismissed accusations, insisting her family was happy and safe.

Things took an even darker turn when Ruby connected with Jodi Hildebrandt, a self-proclaimed parenting expert and founder of the religious social media network ConneXions. Their partnership led to extreme disciplinary tactics, and eventually, Shari was disowned by her mother. Ruby went as far as telling Kevin and Chad to leave their home, further isolating her younger children.

The Escape That Changed Everything

The horrifying truth was finally exposed in August 2023 when Ruby’s 12-year-old son escaped from Jodi Hildebrandt’s home in Utah, malnourished and covered in wounds. He ran to a neighbor’s house, begging for help. That call led to Ruby and Jodi’s arrest and their subsequent charges for multiple counts of aggravated child abuse.

Kevin Franke, who had since separated from Ruby, was never charged. Meanwhile, Shari had spent years trying to alert authorities, even contacting child protective services. However, no action was taken until her younger brother’s daring escape.

Where Are They Now?

Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt pleaded guilty to their charges in 2023 and were sentenced in February 2024. While their exact prison terms have yet to be determined, they both face between four and thirty years behind bars.

Meanwhile, Shari has been vocal about her family’s trauma, writing a memoir, The House of My Mother: A Daughter’s Quest for Freedom, where she details the abuse and her fight to protect her siblings.

A Family Torn Apart, A Story That Needs to Be Told

Devil In The Family shines a light on a horrifying reality hidden in plain sight. It’s a stark reminder that social media can create illusions, and that even the most picture-perfect families can harbor unimaginable darkness. As the docuseries airs, many hope that the case of Ruby Franke serves as a warning, not all influencers are who they claim to be.