Scamanda: Release date, plot, cast, and more on the Hulu docuseries about the viral con artist 

Amanda or Scamanda? (Image Source - Hulu)
Amanda or Scamanda? (Image Source - Hulu)

Scamanda, a docuseries based on the popular podcast of the same name, uncovers Amanda Riley's shocking deception and betrayal of trust. Riley was a wife, mother, blogger, and Christian whose heart-wrenching cancer story captivated thousands. But behind her sympathetic tale was a dark secret she was desperate to hide. Her own words, which once drew people in, eventually became the key to her unraveling. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about the Scamanda docuseries, from its plot and cast to the real-life scandal behind it all.


What is the release date of Scamanda?

youtube-cover

Scamanda's new episodes will be airing on Wednesdays at 10:00 p.m. EDT/PDT on ABC, premiering on October 9. The series will also be available for streaming the following day on Hulu.


What is the plot of Scamanda?

Cancer Fraud (Image Source - Hulu)
Cancer Fraud (Image Source - Hulu)

The central plot of Scamanda revolves around Amanda Riley’s cancer fraud. Amanda gained widespread attention by documenting her supposed cancer treatments and miraculous recoveries, drawing donations and support from all over. Her blog updates often spoke of her miraculous remissions and terminal scares, creating an emotional rollercoaster for her followers.

In 2012, Amanda started her blog after claiming she was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma, a form of blood cancer. Her blog posts shared the highs and lows of cancer treatments, including hair loss and near-death experiences. Amanda’s followers felt deeply connected to her story, pouring out their support emotionally and financially.


Cast of Scamanda

Cast list of Scamanda (Image Source - Hulu)
Cast list of Scamanda (Image Source - Hulu)

The cast of Scamanda features talented actors who bring this gripping true story to life. Their performances capture the deep emotions and shocking moments of Amanda Riley's deception.

The cast of Scamanda includes

  • Charlie Webster
  • Mia Orellano
  • Rachel Leighson
  • Tricia Sullivan.

How did Amanda get caught?

Nancy Moscatiello received an anonymous tip (Image Source - Hulu)
Nancy Moscatiello received an anonymous tip (Image Source - Hulu)

Amanda’s blog quickly grew, attracting thousands of readers. The raw emotional depth in her posts drew people in, leading to donations from friends, family, strangers, and even celebrities like LeAnn Rimes. Over seven years, Amanda managed to collect $105,000 in donations to fund her supposed treatments.

Amanda went to shocking lengths to fake her illness. She shaved her head, forged medical documents, and even posted photos that depicted her as a chemotherapy patient. She painted a vivid and convincing picture of a cancer survivor that few dared to question.

While Amanda’s story seemed too tragic to be fake, some began to suspect foul play. In 2019, investigative producer Nancy Moscatiello received an anonymous tip suggesting that Amanda was not who she claimed to be. Having lost her own sister to cancer, Nancy took the lead in uncovering the truth.

Nancy’s investigation took five long years, but her hard work exposed Amanda’s lies, revealing that she had never undergone cancer treatment. After Nancy Moscatiello’s investigation, the case was handed over to Jose Martinez, a detective specializing in financial crimes. His work eventually led to the IRS, where Special Agent Arlette Lee took over.

In July 2020, Amanda Riley was charged with wire fraud. The evidence against her was overwhelming, and she ultimately pleaded guilty. In May 2022, Amanda was sentenced to 60 months in prison and ordered to pay restitution of $105,513. Her case marked the first time someone was convicted of faking cancer for financial gain.

Scamanda has captivated viewers, not only because of the shocking story but also due to the emotional toll it took on those involved. It explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the human tendency to believe in hope.

Keep reading Soap Central to know more.


You can watch Scamanda on Hulu

comment icon
Comment
Edited by Yesha Srivastava