Inside Bad Influence: Netflix Dives Into the Dark Reality of YouTube Kidfluencing
In the vibrant world of YouTube, Piper Rockelle and her “squad” of youthful influencers built an empire. They weren’t doing anything that seemed out of the ordinary—just a bunch of energetic teens creating prank videos, trying out viral challenges, and sharing romantic crushes to the delight of millions of followers.
But behind the perfectly edited clips and massive view counts, a darker story was unfolding—one now exposed in Netflix’s new documentary series, Bad Influence: The Dark Side of Kidfluencing.
This gripping docuseries sheds light on the serious allegations leveled against Rockelle’s mother and manager, Tiffany Smith. According to a 2022 civil lawsuit filed by 11 former “squad” members, the young content creators endured emotional and even sexual abuse, exploitative work conditions, and little to no compensation—all under the guidance of the very adult figures meant to protect them.
The allegations culminated in a $1.85 million settlement in 2024. Smith and co-defendant Hunter Hill denied any wrongdoing.
A Story That Needed to Be Told
Co-directors Kief Davidson and Jenna Rosher knew they were treading sensitive ground. In an exclusive interview, Davidson revealed he was drawn to the story as both a filmmaker and a parent after reading about the lawsuit. What struck him was the hidden vulnerability of children navigating stardom on platforms that blur the lines between work, performance, and play.
His own son’s reaction—defending the influencers’ hustle—only deepened his resolve to explore the cost of fame on young minds.
Building Trust and Telling the Truth
The filmmakers spent nearly eight months building trust with the families involved, some of whom were reluctant to revisit the trauma. They made it clear that this was not a reality show or clickbait exposé—it was a platform for healing and awareness.
“We wanted them to feel like they were in control,” said Rosher. The team limited interviews to the participants’ comfort, provided on-set therapists, and even brought in set teachers—something many of the kids had never experienced, despite working long hours creating monetized content.
Parents were present for emotionally difficult interviews, especially those touching on abuse, to ensure safety and support throughout.
A Fine Line Between Exposure and Exploitation
The release of Bad Influence follows growing scrutiny of the kidfluencer industry. Some critics worry that even documentaries like this might inadvertently re-exploit vulnerable children. But Davidson and Rosher are clear: the kids wanted to share their stories—not for fame, but to protect others.
Some families opted not to include their children on-screen, concerned it might be too traumatic. But for those who did, the series became a powerful way to reclaim their voice.
The Startling Reality of Child Fame
Among the most shocking revelations: the vast amount of money involved and the audience demographic. “One report stated that 92% of the audience for some young female influencers were men,” Davidson shared. Add to that the identity confusion many kids experienced—forced to perform their real selves for content—and the dangers become crystal clear.
“These kids weren’t acting; they were performing their real lives for clicks,” said Rosher. “That messes with your head when you’re still figuring out who you are.”
Is Change Finally Coming?
While some progress is being made—like legislation in California requiring Coogan accounts for child influencers—regulation is still playing catch-up. Influencer kids don’t have the same labor protections as child actors, and enforcement is tricky.
Still, the filmmakers hope Bad Influence sparks conversation. “Will this change the law? Maybe not,” Davidson admitted. “But it might change how families think before diving into the world of kid content creation.”
As the documentary hits Netflix, the message from the once-silenced kids is clear: the truth needs to be heard—before another generation is caught in the same trap.
