Piper Rockelle Teases Sharing Her ‘Own Story’ Post ‘Bad Influence’ Premiere
In recent news, Piper Rockelle, the popular teen influencer aged 17, has sparked speculation of wanting to share her side of the story, alluding to the release of the documentary “Bad Influence: The Dark Side of Kidfluencing” on Netflix. In a video posted on Instagram, Rockelle hinted at her eagerness to narrate her own perspective, emphasising the importance of personal voice in storytelling. The caption of the video featured lyrics from Alina’s song “i know, i know, i know,” questioning why others would speak on her behalf without her direct input.
Following the debut of “Bad Influence” on April 9, which shed light on the alleged toxic environment orchestrated by Rockelle’s mother, Tiffany Smith, and boyfriend, Hunter Hill, Rockelle took to social media to express her sentiments. Through a series of cryptic posts and videos, she hinted at her dissatisfaction with the documentary’s portrayal and the aftermath it stirred within her circle. Her social media activity showcased her reflections on friendship, rumours, and personal growth amidst the spotlight.
The documentary delved into the grievances voiced by 11 underage collaborators against Smith in 2022, citing various forms of abuse endured during their involvement with Rockelle’s Squad. The subsequent legal proceedings culminated in a settlement in October 2024, with the teens receiving compensation. Despite the ex-Squad members and parents sharing their accounts in the documentary, Rockelle, Smith, and Hill opted out of participating or providing any commentary.
In response to the revelations in “Bad Influence,” Smith addressed the media, highlighting the distressing nature of the situation and its impact on her daughter, Piper. She expressed anticipation for the truth to surface eventually and criticised the documentary for perpetuating falsehoods that could endanger minors. The fallout from the documentary resonated globally, capturing the attention of viewers and prompting discussions about influencer dynamics and accountability.
As the documentary continues to dominate streaming charts, former Squad members Sophie Fergi and Claire RockSmith spoke exclusively to PEOPLE about their decisions to step forward and share their accounts publicly. Their narratives, alongside those of other ex-Squad members, have shed light on the complexities of influencer culture and the importance of safeguarding minors in online spaces. The ongoing discourse surrounding “Bad Influence” underscores the significance of transparency and responsible digital practices within the influencer sphere.
In light of the unfolding events, Rockelle’s journey post-“Bad Influence” serves as a testament to resilience and introspection amidst public scrutiny. The impact of the documentary extends beyond entertainment, prompting critical discussions about ethics, accountability, and the well-being of young influencers. As the narrative evolves, Rockelle’s decision to reclaim her narrative and assert her voice signifies a pivotal moment in navigating the complexities of fame and personal identity in the digital age. Stay tuned for further updates on Rockelle’s journey and the broader implications of “Bad Influence” on the influencer landscape.