Netflix's new series Apple Cider Vinegar has stirred controversy following its dramatization of Belle Gibson's infamous lies. The show recounts the story of the Australian wellness influencer who misled the public about her alleged cancer diagnosis and exploitation of young cancer patients for her personal gain. One family, particularly affected by Gibson's deceptions, is the family of Joshua Schwarz, whose story was represented through fictional characters in the series.
Jade Phoenix, Joshua’s sister, has expressed her dismay at how her brother's character was portrayed, arguing it inaccurately depicts his experience. “I was saddened to see my beautiful brother was shown...in a way not entirely accurate,” Jade told Yahoo Lifestyle. She criticized the show's producers for negative stereotyping, particularly highlighting how Joshua was shown without hair. Jade clarified, saying emphatically, “Joshua never lost his hair, as he never had chemo due to not being an option for his cancer.”
The depiction of the family’s life surrounding Joshua's battle with cancer struck Jade as not only unnecessary but hurtful. “I believe it would've been...more ethical to receive permission from the families,” she assertively stated, lamenting how they weren’t consulted during the series' production.
Beyond portrayal, the real-life tragedy stems from Gibson’s deceitful claims of fundraising to assist Joshua's treatment. “It was disheartening...the betrayal.” Jade revealed, expressing the emotional toll it caused the family when Gibson failed to provide any of the promised funds, forcing them to sell their family home to cover Joshua's healthcare costs. The sentiment of betrayal runs deep as Jade mused over the ramifications, saying it was heartbreaking to realize Belle had used Joshua for her personal and financial gain.
Gibson's actions resulted not only in emotional distress but also legal consequences, as she was fined $410,000 for her misleading cancer claims. The Federal Court judge Debbie Mortimer framed Gibson's actions harshly, stating, “She sought to use the tragic terminal illness of a young boy for her own selfish purposes.” Tragically, Joshua passed away in 2017 at the tender age of nine, leaving behind scars of loss for his family.
Jade fondly remembers her brother, sharing, “He was and always will be the coolest guy in any room.” She spoke of his whimsical spirit and intelligence, noting how he “never complained” throughout his illness, managing to live longer than many expected. Joshua's struggle helped highlight the often-overlooked efficacy of alternative treatments, as Jade articulately pointed out, “natural alternatives can coexist alongside Western medicine.”
After the revelations of Gibson's misconduct, Jade mentioned the lack of any closure, saying Gibson “blocked” her family. “To have no apology or closure felt horrible,” she recounted with regret. Their infrequent encounters since have led to feelings of frustration. For example, she shared, “A few years ago my husband and I walked...to see her and (I believe) Clive sitting at a table,” hinting at the tension and emotional turmoil present between them.
Meanwhile, as viewers stream on Netflix, questions about Gibson’s life post-scandal also loom large. Reports have suggested she has kept largely out of the public eye following her revelations and legal battles. Still, one individual close to Belle, Chanelle McAuliffe, who inspired one of the characters in the series, warned of Gibson’s deceptive nature, relaying Clive's stance, “I need to protect...that little boy. She’s not sick and she’ll try to destroy anyone...that exposes her.”
The pain caused by Gibson’s tale resonates beyond her own misgivings. The fallout from her actions reflects broader issues surrounding trust and moral responsibility, especially when intertwined with the vulnerabilities of families facing illness. The Schwarz family’s experience suggests the larger ramifications of Gibson’s lies not only impacted those closest to her but served as fodder for entertainment without the appropriate respect for real trauma.
It remains evident for Jade and the community, Joshua's legacy is one not of pity but as a source of inspiration. It’s telling when Jade mentions organizations like Very Special Kids—an agency supporting families through cancer—requesting donations on Joshua's behalf, signifying her desire to transform past pain to future hope for others.
While Gibson continues her life away from the spotlight, her story remains entangled with the sorrow of those she misled, like the Schwarz family. Jade's empathy, yet frustration over the portrayal of her brother, serves as poignant testimony to the human cost behind Gibson's falsehoods.