New Onision documentary on Discovery+ uses alleged victims’ stories against their will

Discovery’s new streaming service, Discovery+ recently released a docuseries on the YouTuber Onision, who has risen to infamy in recent years over allegations of sexual misconduct and grooming of young girls. Obviously taking note of how much attention these allegations have garnered through social media, Discovery chose to bring the story to television.

It seems as if controversy surrounding the docuseries is overshadowing the series itself, however. Many YouTubers and people on social media are offended by the show’s inclusion of several alleged victim’s stories who claim they explicitly requested to be excluded. It was previously stated by people working on the docuseries that these stories would not be included, but as of the airing of the second episode, they definitely are.

Chris Hansen, who participated in interviews and the creation of the docuseries, is also facing a fair amount of backlash online from people insisting he is motivated by cash rather than actually caring about the alleged victims. Hansen previously personally interviewed several of the victims who appear against their will in the show. While their faces are blurred, it still leaves a bad taste in your mouth while watching someone on television that you know doesn’t want to be on. It’s important to note, though, Discovery did not cross any legal boundaries by doing this.

Regardless of controversy online, however, the creation and streaming of this documentary will surely garner more attention to the story and possibly a vehicle toward justice. Youtube commentary videos are one thing, but the power of mainstream media isn’t to be downplayed either. If it brings about actual justice, perhaps the ends justify the means.

You can watch my full review of the episodes of "Onision: In Real Life" that have aired thus far in my new YouTube video below!