Teen influencer Piper Rockelle recently spoke out about Netflix’s docuseries “Bad Influence: The Dark Side,” shedding light on whether she has watched the controversial documentary. The 17-year-old social media sensation shared her thoughts during an interview with Rolling Stone, addressing the in-depth exploration of her childhood and the child abuse allegations against her mother, Tiffany Smith. The docuseries, which was released on April 9, delves into the complaints made by 11 underage content creators against Smith in 2022, accusing her of various forms of abuse during their time in the viral group “Squad.”
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Despite the documentary making waves on social media, particularly on platforms like TikTok, Piper Rockelle revealed that she has not actually watched “Bad Influence” in its entirety. She expressed how clips from the series have been circulating online, creating a constant presence in her digital space. Rockelle shared her perspective on the accuracy of the docuseries, acknowledging that while the former Squad members may believe in their accounts, she witnessed the events firsthand and believes the portrayal may not entirely align with her experiences.
The child abuse lawsuit following the allegations against Tiffany Smith was settled in October 2024, with the 11 teens receiving a significant sum of $1.85 million. Despite the legal resolution, Netflix’s portrayal of the events offered a platform for the former Squad members to share their versions of working with Smith. Rockelle emphasised to Rolling Stone that while she acknowledges imperfections in her past experiences, she believes some aspects of the documentary may have been exaggerated.
The release of “Bad Influence” took its toll on Piper Rockelle, who admitted to feeling overwhelmed by the public scrutiny and potential consequences for her mother. The influencer shared her struggles with negative thoughts and fears related to her family dynamic being affected by the aftermath of the docuseries. Amidst the challenges, Rockelle affirmed her commitment to continue entertaining her followers on social media, maintaining a positive outlook on her future in the industry.
Despite the controversies surrounding her family and the documentary, Piper Rockelle remains resolute in her career, with a strong following across various platforms. Her mother, Tiffany Smith, also expressed her concerns over the impact of the docuseries on their lives, emphasising the need for justice and the desire to move past the turbulent period. Rockelle’s social media activity post-release hinted at her eagerness to share her side of the story and regain control of her narrative.
As the discussions around “Bad Influence” continue to unfold, the conflicting perspectives and experiences of those involved highlight the complexities of navigating fame and scrutiny in the digital age. The story of Piper Rockelle and her family serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by social media personalities, showcasing the importance of transparency and resilience in the face of adversity. The influencer’s determination to persevere in her career despite the controversies underscores her commitment to her craft and her audience.