Lifetime’s “Ripped From the Headlines” Films Premiere This September

Lifetime will premiere three compelling “Ripped From the Headlines” films this September, airing consecutively on Saturdays.

The lineup includes:

• A Husband to Die For: The Lisa Aguilar Story — premiering September 13, starring Keana Lyn Bastidas, John McLaren, and Marilu Henner.

• The Girl Who Survived: The Alina Thompson Story — premiering September 20, starring Sam Trammel, Ashley Jones, Brielle Robillard, and Steve Byers.

• I Was a Child Bride: The Courtney Stodden Story — premiering September 27, starring Holly Barrett as Stodden, Doug Savant as her husband Doug Hutchinson, and Maggie Lawson as her mother, Krista.

All three films are based on true stories and highlight dramatic, emotional, and inspiring narratives.

A Husband to Die For: The Lisa Aguilar Story

Keana Lyn Bastidas stars as Lisa Aguilar, a bright and loving woman expecting her first child with her husband Darren (played by John McLaren). Their seemingly perfect life unravels when Lisa discovers Darren’s dark double life. After a brutal attack in her home, Lisa sets out on a quest for justice with the help of her grandmother (played by Marilu Henner), her parents, and a legal team.

Directed by David Weaver with a script by Walter Klenhard, the film was produced by 1Department Entertainment, Lighthouse Pictures, and Wishing Floor Films.

The Girl Who Survived: The Alina Thompson Story

Set in 1980s Los Angeles, this film tells the story of Alina Thompson (played by Brielle Robillard), a 15-year-old aspiring model who narrowly escapes the clutches of a charming serial killer, William Bradford (played by Steve Byers). Alina’s courageous survival is a testament to fate and resilience.

Directed by Michelle Ouellet and written by Christine Conradt, the movie was produced by Studio TF1 America for Lifetime.

I Was a Child Bride: The Courtney Stodden Story

Part of Lifetime’s “I Was / I Am” franchise, this film chronicles the controversial marriage of Courtney Stodden (played by Holly Barrett) to 51-year-old actor Doug Hutchinson (played by Doug Savant) at age 16. Narrated by Stodden, the biopic explores her journey through childhood exploitation, trauma, and survival under intense public scrutiny.

Directed by D’Angela Procter with a script by Kim Barker, the project was produced by MGM Alternative and Safier Entertainment.

Notable Cast & Crew

• Keana Lyn Bastidas — known for The Hardy Boys.

• John McLaren — known for When Hope Calls.

• Marilu Henner — famous for Taxi and numerous films and shows.

• Brielle Robillard — seen in Endlings and The Lake.

• Ashley Jones — veteran actress from The Bold and the Beautiful and True Blood.

• Sam Trammell — known for True Blood and This Is Us.

• Holly Barrett — known for Life in Pieces.

• Doug Savant — veteran star from Melrose Place and Desperate Housewives.

• Maggie Lawson — credited in Psych and Lethal Weapon.