Netflix’s Apple Cider Vinegar Exposes the Shocking Scammer Behind a Wellness Empire

Netflix’s recent true-crime drama titled “Apple Cider Vinegar” is swiftly moving up the streaming rankings, starting at position six and climbing to third place within a short span of days. The Australian limited series, comprising six episodes and released on February 7th, had an impressive debut and has been receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics. Given its favorable reception, it appears that “Apple Cider Vinegar’s” upward trajectory is set to continue. This gripping series delves into the sinister aspects of the online wellness community, recounting the true story of Belle Gibson (portrayed by Emmy-nominated actress Kaitlyn Dever), a fraudulent influencer who peddled healthy diets and alternative remedies (including apple cider vinegar) as cancer cures.

The storyline in this presentation is drawn from the book titled “The Woman Who Deceived The World: A True Account of Pseudo-Wellness Guru Belle Gibson“, penned by authors Beau Donelly and Nick Toscano. In reality, Gibson, the main character, falsely asserted that she had healed her non-existent brain cancer using these methods.

Besides effectively engaging viewers, the role of Apple Cider Vinegar has garnered significant recognition, boasting an 82% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes (with its audience score slightly lower at 76%). Kaitlyn Dever’s portrayal of Belle Gibson has been especially commended. As Dever shared with Netflix’s Tudum, she aimed to capture the intricate layers of Belle, a complex individual and a chameleon who could seamlessly switch personas to achieve her objectives. Series creator Samantha Strauss told the publication that Dever is “extraordinary,” further stating that “she is one of the most skillful actors of her generation.” Critics appear to concur: The Wrap labels Dever a “discovery,” while other reviews describe her performance as “excellent,” “powerful,” and “outstanding.

Lead Cast Shines in ‘Apple Cider Vinegar’

USA Today praised a remarkable group of four actresses, headed by Dever, for their moving portrayals in the show “Apple Cider Vinegar.” Among these talented women, Alycia Debnam-Carey plays Milla Blake, a character who, like the real-life Jessica Ainscough, was diagnosed with sarcoma and sought unconventional treatments; Aisha Dee portrays Chanelle, Milla’s friend and Belle’s assistant; Tilda Cobham-Hervey takes on the role of Lucy, a cancer patient who follows Belle; and Mark Coles Smith depicts Justin, Lucy’s husband.

In terms of breathing life into real-world characters, Dever has consistently impressed with her powerful acting. In 2019’s “Unbelievable,” she portrayed Marie Adler, a woman who was not believed when she reported being raped. The following year, she starred as Betsy Mallum, a young woman struggling with OxyContin addiction in “Dopesick” (earning notable award nominations for both roles). Her talent is once again on display in “Apple Cider Vinegar,” and her nuanced portrayal of Belle seems poised to attract further award recognition. Fans can anticipate seeing her in the upcoming season of “The Last of Us.

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2025-03-10 14:32