Quote from Oladosun Joshua Segun on June 10, 2024, 11:44 PM

The recent release of Netflix's docuseries "Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult" has stirred a significant amount of attention and controversy, highlighting the profound impact that documentary storytelling can have on the subjects it portrays. The series delves into the allegations surrounding the 7M Films talent management company and its connections to the Shekinah Church, led by Robert Shinn. It's a tale that has captivated audiences with its intricate narrative of ambition, faith, and the complex web of social media influence.

At the heart of the story are TikToker Miranda Derrick and her husband James Derrick, who have found themselves in a precarious situation following the docuseries' release. Miranda Derrick has publicly expressed that she and her husband feel their lives are in danger, a sentiment that underscores the real-world consequences that can follow such powerful exposés.

"Before this documentary, my husband and I, we felt safe," Miranda said in a June 10 Instagram Video. "Now that this documentary is out, we feel like our lives have been put in danger."

The docuseries has not only brought to light the personal experiences of the Derricks but also sparked a broader conversation about the nature of cults, the influence of social media, and the responsibilities of documentary filmmakers. As viewers, we are drawn into the lives of those on screen, often forgetting that the stories we consume for entertainment are rooted in the realities of real people.

Miranda Derrick's response to the documentary is a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between storytelling and the protection of those involved. While documentaries aim to inform and sometimes advocate for change, they can also inadvertently expose their subjects to public scrutiny and potential harm. This raises ethical questions about the duty of care that filmmakers have towards their subjects and the extent to which they should be held accountable for the aftermath of their work.

The situation also highlights the darker side of internet fame. The Derricks, like many influencers, have built a following based on their online presence, but this visibility comes with risks. The backlash from the docuseries demonstrates how quickly public opinion can turn and how the same platforms that build careers can also threaten personal safety.

The 27-year-old went on to detail how both she and James have been followed in their cars, as well as the hate mail and death threats they've received.

"Someone said that ‘If I see you on the street, I'm going to come and gut you, so you better get security,'" she shared. "Someone also said that ‘If I see you walking on the sidewalk, I'm going to come and shove you in the trunk of my car.

As the conversation continues, it's essential to consider the human element behind the stories we watch. The Derricks' experience is a stark reminder that behind every documentary is a person or group of people whose lives continue off-screen, often changed forever by the narratives crafted about them.

While following the documentary, Miranda said she feels hurt over their involvement with the project.

"Things are a little slower and I'm not posting as much," she explained to her fans. "Just bear with me, I'm getting through this. I see the light at the end of the tunnel."

In the age of streaming and viral content, "Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult" serves as a case study in the power of documentary storytelling and its far-reaching implications. It's a power that can illuminate truths and spark important discussions, but one that must be wielded with care and consideration for the real lives involved.