In a recently released documentary titled *You Can See Everything*, former Theranos employee Tyler Shultz has shared his surprising observations regarding Elizabeth Holmes, the company’s former CEO. His comments shed light on the drastic transformation he perceives in her since the scandal surrounding Theranos erupted.
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Shultz, who played a significant role as a whistleblower in exposing the truth about Theranos, expressed his shock at Holmes’ appearance in the film, describing her as a “broken woman.” During an appearance on CBS Mornings, he reflected on how drastically her demeanor has changed from the confident executive he once knew. “The Elizabeth that I knew completely commanded a room, even if that room was full of secretaries of state, generals, or senators. She had so much confidence,” Shultz remarked, contrasting this image with the woman portrayed in the documentary, whom he found nearly unrecognisable.
In the documentary, Shultz also raised concerns regarding Holmes’ portrayal of the blood-testing technology that was central to the Theranos scandal. He accused Holmes of misleading filmmaker Nathan Fielder about the device shown within the film, claiming it was a mere prototype and not the actual technology utilised for patient testing. “That was not the device that I worked with 12 hours a day,” he asserted, underscoring that it did not meet the company’s regulatory standards and had failed quality controls.
In addition to his critique of the film, Shultz firmly rejected Holmes’ persistent claims of innocence. He believes that Holmes has spun an elaborate web of lies and knows full well the deception she perpetrated on investors. Citing the 2018 Securities and Exchange Commission complaint, he noted that she had allegedly provided false revenue figures to potential investors, reinforcing his view that the former CEO was aware of her dishonesty. Shultz argued that if Holmes genuinely believed in her company’s success, she would not have withheld crucial audited financial statements.
He highlighted the potential consequences of Theranos’ erroneous blood tests, alleging that many patients were misdiagnosed with serious health conditions. Shultz recounted agonising cases where patients were incorrectly informed that they had HIV or cancer, and expectant mothers were falsely told they had lost their pregnancies. “I knew that we were hurting people and there was just no way I could keep my mouth shut about it,” he said, emphasising his motivation to expose the truth.
Directed by Nathan Fielder and Lance Oppenheim, *You Can See Everything* also captures Holmes in the weeks leading up to her federal prison sentence, which began in May 2023. Holmes was convicted of fraud against investors in January 2022, receiving a sentence of more than 11 years. The documentary, which premiered in theatres on October 16, provides a unique insight into her life during this tumultuous period.
Despite his criticisms of Holmes, Shultz acknowledged that the film could evoke a measure of sympathy for her, particularly in scenes depicting her emotional farewell to her young children. “It’s very painful watching her leave them and go to prison,” he admitted, recognising the complex emotions surrounding her situation.
In conclusion, as *You Can See Everything* continues to capture public attention, it raises essential questions about accountability, corporate transparency, and the ethical implications of health technology. The stark contrast between Holmes’ earlier persona and her current state serves as a poignant reminder of the profound consequences that can arise from corporate malpractice, impacting not only the individuals involved but potentially endangering the lives of countless patients.