New documentary Sherri Papini kidnapping hoax - what to expect

New Hulu documentary "Perfect Wife: The Mysterious Disappearance of Sherri Papini" explores the kidnapping hoax that shocked the nation.

Sherri Papini, a Northern California woman, gained national attention for her kidnapping hoax that unfolded over six years. The new Hulu documentary, "Perfect Wife: The Mysterious Disappearance of Sherri Papini," delves into the drama that began with Papini's vanishing in 2016. She claimed to have been kidnapped by two Latina women, but it was later revealed to be a lie. After reappearing along Interstate 5, Papini was sentenced to prison for lying to the FBI and mail fraud. Despite being ordered to pay restitution, she has not paid the full amount.

The documentary promises unprecedented access to investigators and Papini's family and friends, exploring the shocking revelations of a relationship that wasn't what it seemed. Sherri Papini's story has inspired other film projects, including a Lifetime movie. Her ex-husband, Keith Papini, revealed in a recent interview that he knew she was lying about the kidnapping but was swayed by her injuries.

The early days of Papini's disappearance garnered national media attention, painting her as a "super mom." Investigators looked into former boyfriends and Keith Papini to unravel the kidnapping mystery. Sherri Papini's claims of being kidnapped, tortured, and branded were met with skepticism by authorities, especially after male DNA was found on her underwear. Her ex-boyfriend, James Reyes, admitted to sheltering her after she claimed Keith abused her.

Sherri Papini eventually concocted a plan to return home, inflicting injuries on herself and enlisting Reyes to help. After inconsistencies in her stories emerged, charges were filed against her in 2022. In her court plea, she apologized for lying but has not shown remorse to her ex-husband or children. Keith Papini expressed his disappointment in her lack of remorse and their strained relationship.

The documentary sheds light on the intricate web of lies and deception surrounding Sherri Papini's case, offering a closer look at the unraveling of a sensationalized story. It serves as a cautionary tale of the consequences of fabricating a kidnapping hoax and the impact it can have on those involved. Through interviews and investigations, the series provides a deep dive into the complexities of human behavior and the aftermath of a high-profile scandal.