ABC’s docuseries “Scamanda” finally premieres after a scheduling delay last fall, showcasing the shocking true story of Amanda Riley, who faked a cancer battle for financial gain. Riley’s elaborate hoax involved soliciting donations for fake medical treatments and perks, ultimately leading to her conviction for wire fraud in 2021 and a five-year prison sentence.
The series highlights Riley’s staged hospital photos and inconsistencies in her story, revealing how she managed to deceive thousands of followers and charitable organizations. Despite the obvious signs of a scam, many were easily fooled by Riley’s facade.
Creator Charlie Webster sheds light on Riley’s motives, suggesting that it wasn’t solely for money but rather an addiction to attention and validation. Webster also addresses the community’s support of Riley, emphasizing the need for hope and how she manipulated their emotions.
As the series delves deeper into Riley’s psychology and mental health struggles, including the possibility of narcissism or Munchausen syndrome, Webster refrains from diagnosing her and warns against minimizing the experiences of her victims.
“Scamanda” premieres on ABC on January 30th, with episodes available for streaming on Hulu the following day. The series offers a cautionary tale of deception and the consequences of falling prey to elaborate scams.