Melissa Joan Hart and La La Anthony are set to star in a new Lifetime movie that delves into the controversial topic of conservatorships. The film, titled Bad Guardian, follows the story of a court-appointed guardianship that takes a dark turn, shedding light on the potential harms of such arrangements.
The plot revolves around Leigh (played by Hart) and her father Jason (portrayed by Eric Pierpoint). When Jason suffers a fall and is assigned a guardian named Janet (played by Anthony), things quickly spiral out of control. Janet assumes full control over Jason's life, placing him in a nursing home, selling off his assets, and neglecting his health needs.
As Leigh fights to save her father from the clutches of the corrupt guardian, the film raises important questions about the effectiveness and ethics of court-appointed caretakers. The storyline is inspired by real-life cases where individuals have faced similar challenges under guardianship.
According to journalist Diane Dimond, over 2 million Americans are currently under guardianship or conservatorship, with state courts reportedly confiscating more than $50 billion annually from their wards. Shockingly, 98% of individuals under guardianship never regain their independence, highlighting the lack of federal regulations in the system.
Bad Guardian comes at a time when high-profile conservatorships, such as those of Britney Spears and Wendy Williams, have sparked public debate. Spears recently broke free from her 13-year conservatorship, shedding light on the control exerted over her finances and personal life. Williams, on the other hand, has faced health challenges and legal battles under her guardianship, with her family alleging limited communication and lack of transparency.
The movie is expected to offer a gripping portrayal of the complexities and controversies surrounding guardianship, aiming to raise awareness about the need for reform in the system. With an experienced production team and talented cast, Bad Guardian promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of a pressing societal issue.
