Netflix has recently released a new documentary series titled “Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult,” which delves into the world of a dance management company and its associated church, both spearheaded by Robert Shinn.
The series premiered on May 29, 2024, and has garnered significant attention due to its controversial subject matter and the allegations of cult-like practices within the organization.
Dancing for the Devil – At A Glance
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | May 29, 2024 |
| Cast | Melanie Wilking, Kelly Wilking, Dean Wilking, Konkrete, Kailea Gray, Kylie Douglas |
| Synopsis | A documentary series exploring the alleged cult practices of 7M Management and the Shekinah Church, focusing on the experiences of the Wilking family and other dancers who escaped the organization. |
| Controversies | Lawsuits, sexual abuse, financial misconduct, labor violations |
| Plot | The Wilking family’s efforts to rescue their daughter from the cult |
| Director | Derek Doneen |
| Executive Producer | Jessica Acevedo |
| Genre | Documentary, Drama |
| TV Rating | TV-MA |
| Network | Netflix |
| Premiere Date | May 29, 2024 |
| Number of Episodes | 3 |
The Cast
The documentary features several key individuals who have been involved with the 7M management company and the Shekinah Church. These include:
- Dean Wilking: Miranda and Melanie’s father, who is a teacher and has been actively involved in trying to rescue his daughter from the cult.
- Kelly Wilking: The mother of Melanie and Miranda, who reflects on how her daughters’ pursuit of their dance dreams led them to become increasingly distant from their family.
- Melanie Wilking: One of the Wilking sisters, who serves as the anchor of the documentary and shares her experiences with her sister’s involvement in the cult.
- Konkrete: James Derrick’s best friend and a former member of the 7M management. He addresses the controversies surrounding the organization and calls it a cult.
- Kailea Gray: Konkrete’s girlfriend, who shares her experiences with the Shekinah Church and its teachings.
- Kylie Douglas: Aubrey Fisher’s girlfriend and a former 7M member, who discusses her relationship with Aubrey and their ties to Robert Shinn’s company.
The Controversies
The documentary series explores the allegations of cult-like practices within the 7M management company and the Shekinah Church. These include claims of sexual abuse, financial misconduct, labor violations, alienation, and coercive control. Robert Shinn, the founder of the Shekinah Church and 7M Films, has been accused of using his influence to manipulate and control his followers.
The Story
The documentary begins by introducing the Wilking family, who were initially unaware of the extent of their daughter Miranda’s involvement with the 7M management company. As the series progresses, it reveals how Miranda became increasingly distant from her family and eventually disappeared from social media. The Wilkings, along with other families and former members of the cult, share their experiences and the struggles they faced in trying to rescue their loved ones.
Lawsuits and Controversies
Robert Shinn has filed lawsuits against several individuals involved in the documentary, including Katie Joy Paulson, who claims to have helped the Wilking family in their efforts to expose the cult. Paulson has accused Shinn of attempting to stop the production of the documentary and prevent people from coming forward with their stories.
“Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult” is a gripping and disturbing documentary that sheds light on the controversial world of Robert Shinn and his organizations. The series raises important questions about the power dynamics within cults and how they can manipulate and control their followers.
As the documentary unfolds, it becomes clear that the story is far from over, and the impact of this series will likely be felt for a long time to come.
