Bad Influence: The Dark Side of Kidfluencing

“Bad Influence: The Dark Side of Kidfluencing,” a three-part documentary series released on Netflix today, April 9, 2025, delves into the disturbing realities behind the world of child influencers, focusing particularly on the story of Piper Rockelle and her mother-manager, Tiffany Smith. Piper, a young social media star, amassed millions of followers through pranks, challenges, and “crush content” featuring her group of friends known as “The Squad.” For many aspiring tween influencers, joining The Squad seemed like a golden ticket to online fame and lucrative brand deals.Bad Influence: The Dark Side of Kidfluencing Season 1 Download.

However, the docuseries unearths harrowing allegations from former Squad members and their parents, painting a dark picture of alleged exploitation, cult-like manipulation, and abuse at the hands of Tiffany Smith. The series explores how innocent games and dares reportedly escalated into inappropriate and even sexualized behavior, orchestrated by Piper’s mother behind the scenes. Former members claim they faced verbal, emotional, physical, and even sexual abuse, and those who left The Squad allegedly faced further harassment online.

Through interviews with former Squad members and their families, “Bad Influence” investigates the troubling stories and the legal action taken against Tiffany Smith. The series raises serious questions about the growing sexualization of tweens online and the lengths some individuals will go to for financial gain, seemingly at the expense of children’s well-being. It promises to be an eye-opening exposé into the darker side of the kidfluencer phenomenon, revealing the alleged abuse and manipulation that occurred behind the seemingly fun and innocent online personas.