The Unsettling True Story of “The Dating App Killer”

**New Film ‘The Dating App Killer’ Chronicles Real-Life Events of Monica White and Anthony Robinson**

In a striking portrayal of real-life events, the Lifetime film *The Dating App Killer*, released in 2026, tells the harrowing story of Monica White, a Pennsylvania woman who found herself in a relationship with the notorious serial killer Anthony Robinson. The film, directed by Elisabeth Röhm, aims to provide insight into White’s experiences and resilience in the wake of a terrifying relationship.

The story begins in 2020 when White connected with Robinson on the dating platform Tagged. Initially, the relationship seemed promising as Robinson engaged in frequent phone calls and video chats. However, by February 2021, White felt compelled to end the relationship due to Robinson’s unsettling behaviour, which included several inappropriate actions during their face-to-face meet-ups.

White’s concerns only deepened when the remains of Robinson’s first alleged victim, Sonya Champ, were discovered in September of the same year. Robinson, infamously dubbed the “Shopping Cart Killer” for his method of transporting his victims, is currently implicated in six murders spanning Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., even though he has only been convicted in connection with two. Reflecting on her connection with Robinson, White expressed a haunting sense of guilt, stating, “I felt like I might’ve been the reason why he might have snapped.”

Röhm, known for her acting role in *Law & Order*, was inspired to direct the film after reading about White’s experience in PEOPLE magazine. In a podcast interview, she pointed out her intention to focus on White’s perspective, stating, “We’re not celebrating him… it’s really her story.” This approach aligns with a broader aim to tell the narrative of trauma and survival rather than glorifying the perpetrator’s actions.

The film elaborates on aspects of Robinson’s past, including a previous engagement that ended with his fiancée’s sudden death in 2018. According to reports, Skye Allen died from cardiac arrhythmia after spending the night with Robinson, leading to unanswered questions regarding his involvement. Despite police inquiries into Robinson’s potential complicity, no charges have been pressed in connection with Allen’s death, leaving her mother to harbour suspicions about Robinson’s role.

As the film depicts, Robinson entered a violent phase shortly following the end of his relationship with White. His first convicted murder victim, Allene Elizabeth “Beth” Redmon, was reported missing in October 2021, six months after Robinson and White parted ways. Reflecting on her final encounters with Robinson, White recounted uncomfortable incidents, including one where he urinated in her bed during her birthday celebrations and exhibited troubling behaviour around her family.

Röhm revealed that the filming process was collaborative, as the production team worked closely with White to ensure her story was accurately portrayed. This collaboration was essential to infuse the film with authenticity while respecting White’s experience. “We want them to trust us… that their story is safe,” Röhm emphasised in her comments about the importance of ethical storytelling in such sensitive matters.

Though White has remained relatively silent about the film itself, she has embraced a revitalised perspective on life, articulating the lessons she has drawn from her ordeal. “I don’t need a man to love myself,” she reflected, signifying her journey of self-discovery and personal empowerment following a deeply unsettling chapter in her life.

*The Dating App Killer* serves as a crucial reminder of the potential dangers lurking within digital dating, calling attention to the importance of caution and self-protection when engaging with others online. As narratives like White’s gain visibility, they provide not only a chilling account of reality but also hope for those who have endured similar experiences of trauma and recovery.

Through its compelling narrative and sensitive portrayal, the film contributes to the broader discourse around relationships, safety, and the strength of those who have confronted unimaginable challenges. White’s story serves not only as a cautionary tale but also as an empowering reminder of resilience amidst adversity.