Award-winning production company Lightbox, co-founded by Academy Award-winner Simon Chinn and Emmy Award-winner Jonathan Chinn, is set to deliver a compelling three-part documentary series titled “Bad Host: Hunting the Couchsurfing Predator.” The series, produced in association with Scripps and global film and TV studio FIFTH SEASON, unfolds the extraordinary story of a group of young women who, unknowingly connected, unite to expose and bring down a predatory Italian policeman.
Derived from the hit podcast “Verified,” the documentary follows the harrowing experiences of young women from diverse locations, including California, Australia, and Portugal. Drawn to the popular Couchsurfing website, these women become victims of a predator named ‘Leonardo,’ a serving Italian police officer with a seemingly trustworthy profile.
The series unveils a six-year battle waged by the victims, who, initially unaware of each other, trace the predator through the internet. Connected in a secret Facebook group, the women discover that ‘Leonardo’ had sexually abused and raped at least five victims and drugged at least 15, including allegations of assaulting a minor.
Exclusive access to these remarkable women offers viewers an intimate and detailed account of their fight for justice. The documentary sheds light on the dark side of the sharing economy, exposing the challenges faced by vulnerable young women and the failures of law enforcement to address their allegations seriously.
Sky Documentaries’ Director of Documentaries and Factual, Poppy Dixon, commended Lightbox for crafting a compelling series with real purpose, emphasising the victim-led true crime investigation that will captivate audiences.
Suzanne Lavery, SVP Unscripted at Lightbox, highlighted the unexpected twists and turns in the story, showcasing the dangers of trusting the online world while illustrating the potential of the internet to empower a group of young women fighting for justice.
FIFTH SEASON, responsible for worldwide distribution rights, expressed confidence in the series becoming a compelling addition to the demand for premium true crime docuseries worldwide.
“Bad Host: Hunting the Couchsurfing Predator” is currently in production and is set to launch to buyers at MIPCOM 2023. The documentary is produced by Lightbox in association with Scripps for Sky Documentaries, directed by Lottie Gammon, and executive produced by Simon Chinn and Jonathan Chinn for Lightbox.
