Shocking Revelation: Million-Dollar Deception Behind the Heartwarming Story of The Blind Side
The Blind Side sparks further controversy as the real-life subject alleges adoption deception, claiming his family profited millions from his story
Summary
According to Michael Oher, the depiction of his adoption in The Blind Side is entirely false. In reality, he was placed under a conservatorship which enabled the Tuohy family to capitalize on business agreements using his name.
The narrative in The Blind Side suggests that the Tuohys adopted Oher out of genuine love. However, Oher claims that he was misled into signing the conservatorship agreement and did not receive any compensation, while the Tuohy family made significant profits from the film's royalties. This recent revelation further contributes to the ongoing controversy surrounding The Blind Side, which had already faced criticism for its portrayal of a white savior figure.
Michael Oher, the real-life inspiration for the film The Blind Side, has come forward to assert that his adoption depicted in the movie was an exploitative fabrication. Starring Sandra Bullock and released in 2009, The Blind Side portrays the journey of Oher, played by Quinton Aaron, from homelessness to professional football success. According to Oher, the narrative presented by the film is far from the truth. Rather than being legally adopted by the Tuohy couple, portrayed by Bullock and Sean Tuohy, Oher claims that he was placed under a conservatorship, allowing the Tuohys to capitalize on various business opportunities using his name. In a petition filed with the Shelby County, Tennessee court, Oher alleges that he was deceived by the family and coerced into signing the conservatorship agreement shortly after turning 18. In addition, Oher states that while the Tuohys and their biological children profited greatly from the film royalties, he received no compensation.
Even Before Oher’s Petition, The Blind Side Was Controversial
Oher’s claim sharply contradicts the narrative promoted by The Blind Side, which the Tuohys still endorse today. The film unequivocally portrays the Tuohys as adopting Oher out of genuine love and care, disavowing any notion of exploitation. Even after the release of The Blind Side, Leigh Anne Tuohy has embraced the role of a motivational speaker and consistently refers to Oher as her adopted son.
Nonetheless, controversy has surrounded The Blind Side in the years following its debut. While the film can be seen as an inspiring story of overcoming adversity and the importance of community support, it also perpetuates a white savior narrative by portraying the Tuohys, a white couple, as heroes for rescuing a disadvantaged Black teenager. This aspect of the film can create discomfort when viewing it.
If the entire adoption turns out to be false, it adds an even more reprehensible element to this already doubtful movie. Oher's petition seeks to terminate the Tuohys' control over him and demands that he be fairly compensated for the profits they have earned. If Oher's allegations are proven to be true, it may finally bring some justice, although a significant amount of harm has already been inflicted by The Blind Side.
