Courtney Stodden Breaks Silence on Alleged Grooming in New Lifetime Movie

In September 2025, Courtney Stodden, now 31 years old, is the subject of a new Lifetime movie titled "I Was a Child Bride: The Courtney Stodden Story." The film chronicles Stodden's marriage to 51-year-old actor Doug Hutchison when she was just 16 years old back in 2011.

Stodden has since divorced Hutchison and is now speaking out about the alleged "grooming" she experienced during their nearly 10-year marriage. She claims that while her parents initially approved of the union, she was manipulated and taken advantage of as a minor. Stodden has also discussed her struggles with substance abuse and suicidal thoughts in the aftermath of the relationship.

Despite the tumultuous past, Stodden continues to advocate for animal rights and vegetarianism through her work with PETA. She recently got married to filmmaker Jared Safier, who is also a producer on the Lifetime movie. Stodden hopes that by sharing her story, she can raise awareness about the dangers of child marriage and grooming, and inspire others to speak out against such abusive situations.