Netflix is facing another ‘Baby Reindeer’-style lawsuit, but this one might be worse

The lawsuit filed by three women featured in the Netflix documentary *Our Father* marks a significant moment for privacy rights in true crime storytelling. The documentary details the disturbing actions of Dr. Donald Cline, a fertility doctor who allegedly fathered at least 94 children by using his sperm without patients’ consent. Now, two of the three plaintiffs, who claim Netflix publicly disclosed their identities without permission, are moving forward with their case after a recent judge’s ruling.

According to court documents, while the women’s names and identities were not shown in person, they did appear in the film’s footage and trailer without explicit consent. The plaintiffs argue that Netflix assured them of privacy, as they had not signed waivers like the other interviewees. However, despite some names being blurred out, theirs were not, prompting accusations that Netflix violated their reasonable expectation of privacy.

Netflix, on the other hand, contends that the plaintiffs diminished their own privacy expectations by using a public DNA testing platform and joining a private Facebook group for Cline’s offspring. Yet, the judge ruled that the women maintained a reasonable expectation of privacy within the closed group and that Netflix’s actions may indeed constitute a breach.

The lawsuit against Netflix reflects growing scrutiny over the balance between transparency and privacy in true crime media. The two plaintiffs seek damages for alleged emotional distress, reputational harm, and trauma, emphasizing the serious personal impact of Cline’s actions — and now the publicity surrounding them.