TikTok sensation Miranda Derrick, whose life has been chronicled in the Netflix docuseries “Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult,” has voiced concerns over her safety following the show’s release.
In an emotional Instagram video posted on Monday, the 27-year-old dancer, married to James Derrick, expressed feeling threatened since the documentary’s debut.
Derrick expressed profound distress over the drastic shift in her sense of security, stating that she and her husband felt safe before the series.
However, the spotlight generated by the documentary has led to a barrage of disturbing incidents, including being followed in their cars, receiving hate mail and death threats, and being subjected to online harassment and stalking.
Recounting some of the alarming messages she has received, Derrick shared instances where individuals threatened physical harm, expressing intentions to confront her in public spaces or inflict violence upon her. These threats have left her feeling vulnerable and fearful for her safety.
Moreover, Derrick expressed confusion and dismay over the documentary’s portrayal of her life, particularly regarding her family’s involvement.
She questioned how her sister, Melanie Wilking, and their parents believed that the series would improve their strained relationship or aid in her recovery from alleged cult involvement.
The docuseries delves into the operations of 7M, a talent management company led by Pastor Robert Shinn, associated with an invite-only church called Shekinah.
Former church members have accused Shinn of exploiting his authority to control them, leading to isolation and manipulation.
Derrick’s family, deeply concerned about her well-being, has been attempting to extricate her from the perceived cult since losing contact with her in 2021. Despite her denial of involvement in any cult, Derrick’s familial ties and their efforts to intervene have been a central narrative in the documentary.
While Derrick has been working to reconcile with her family privately, the documentary’s release has strained these efforts. She lamented the documentary’s impact on her family dynamics, indicating that it has hindered their progress in rebuilding their relationship.
Expressing her ongoing commitment to faith and personal growth, Derrick emphasized her dedication to mending familial bonds and fostering positive connections.
However, she acknowledged the challenges posed by the documentary’s portrayal of her life and its implications for her relationships.
Since its release on Netflix, “Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult” has sparked widespread discussion and scrutiny.
The series has raised questions about the influence of social media, the dynamics of religious organizations, and the complexities of family relationships.
As Derrick navigates the aftermath of the documentary’s release, she remains steadfast in her pursuit of safety, well-being, and personal growth.
Her story underscores the profound impact of media portrayal on individuals’ lives and the importance of understanding and empathy in navigating complex narratives.
