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Finally, Courtney Stodden can tell her whole story in this Lifetime movie, ‘I Was A Child Bride: The Courtney Stodden Story.’ With Stodden as an executive producer alongside Doug Savant, who stars in the film, it will premiere this September 27th. For the very first time in her over 20-year public life, Courtney Stodden has actually put forward her own narrative regarding her teenage marriage.
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Only the trailer does all that. In the background, an eerie little voice says, “The whole world is gonna know my name,” and then the story of fame, manipulation, and survival unfolds. There are shots of Courtney, at 16, marrying a 51-year-old actor, which immediately propelled her into newspaper headlines and public scorn. “They’re sending me hate mail,” she says, as an uncaring voice responds, “All publicity is good publicity.” Then, perhaps the most spine-chilling words are uttered: “The tabloids, the media, say Courtney isn’t real. So who is the real Courtney? I was a child bride.”
This project has been in the making a very long time for those who had been following the saga. The announcement sparked flood-like support from followers that had been waiting more than 10 years for Stodden to put forth her story. “The story we have been waiting for since the wedding!!! Good for Courtney getting out!!! Love her!” one person stated, quite aptly. That feeling worked as a catalyst for hundreds of other comments, which would imply a complete public-opinion turnaround, from outright casting judgments to empathizing with her.
There was a wave of ridiculous chatter around casting choices. Many thought Doug Savant, best known from ‘Desperate Housewives,’ might be considered too attractive for the role. “excited for this but Doug Savant is way too good looking to play the real guy!” Bringing some levity to a serious matter was his one comment. Spanish-speaking viewers started to invade the comment area in search of leaks. “We need lifetime back in the UK 😢” one of the fans begged. Another one asked, “But is it coming to Australia ??? Giiirlll I need to see this ASAP,” showing how wide the interest in Stodden’s journey is.
The emotional response concerned itself with Stodden’s strength. There were nearly countless comments congratulating those who reclaimed their stories for her. One supporter said, “So glad that your story is being told by YOU, I hope this has helped your healing to keep your voice and use it.” Another: “❤️ she has come so far. I wish her all the best and brightest and the best vibes for the rest of her life of freedom.” This outpouring of support establishes that the movie is way beyond just a ratings grab for Lifetime: It is a cultural vindication of Stodden.
It also stars Stella Grace Fitzgerald. Stodden highly praised her in the comments as being grateful for having the ability to tell such an important story; Fitzgerald replied that she “[did] little Courtney proud.” This points at some very thoughtful collaborative effort in telling the story.
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‘I Was A Child Bride’ marks the beginning of the reclamation. After years of headlines, Courtney Stodden is finally aging a pen from Mrs. Media and she’s writing her own life story. There does seem to be a public out there waiting to listen.