The family of a young woman killed in the 2022 University of Idaho stabbings has publicly denounced the production of a forthcoming television film about the case, calling the project exploitative and criticizing the behavior of its cast.
The movie, which chronicles the murders of four students, has drawn ire after actors were seen in a social media video dancing and joking while still in costume, some appearing to be stained with theatrical blood. The video, which has since been removed, reportedly featured the performer portraying victim Kaylee Goncalves.
In a strongly worded statement, Goncalves’ parents expressed their profound hurt and disappointment. They accused the production of capitalizing on their family’s tragedy for profit and condemned the actors for demonstrating what they called “poor taste” so soon after the legal resolution of the case. They emphasized that their grief remains acute, noting the permanent loss of their daughter and her friend.
Public backlash has extended beyond the family. An online petition demanding the film’s cancellation has garnered thousands of signatures. The petition’s creator argued that transforming a real-life tragedy involving four young people with stolen futures into entertainment is “absolutely heartbreaking.” Many supporters echoed the sentiment that the production inflicts further pain on the grieving families and communities affected.
The man convicted of the crimes, Bryan Kohberger, a former criminology student, is now serving multiple life sentences without parole after accepting a plea agreement last year. The film is being produced by a team known for previous projects based on high-profile criminal cases.
The controversy highlights ongoing ethical debates surrounding true-crime dramatizations, particularly the tension between storytelling and the sensitivity owed to victims and their loved ones in the immediate aftermath of a tragedy.
