Amanda Seyfried Faces Backlash Over Elizabeth Holmes Documentary

Amanda Seyfried landed in controversy following her appearance in the latest Elizabeth Holmes documentary, “You Can See Everything.” Her role alongside Nathan Fielder in the documentary stirred criticism. The film covers Elizabeth Holmes’ last 34 days before her prison sentence began on May 30, 2023.

Seyfried revisited her portrayal of Holmes, whom she previously played in Hulu’s “The Dropout.” The documentary, released on October 16, highlighted Seyfried’s shifting perspective on Holmes, including her reactions to Holmes’ personal life and relationship with Billy Evans. Seyfried and Fielder retold conversations Fielder had with Holmes after she entered prison. Throughout the film, Seyfried showed an increasing sympathy for Holmes, even as Holmes critiqued Seyfried’s portrayal of her in “The Dropout.”

This new documentary emerged highly anticipated. However, Seyfried’s participation led to accusations of hypocrisy from viewers. One user commented on X, stating that Seyfried defended Holmes as a victim of manipulation until Holmes criticized her portrayal. “I hope she gets redragged for it,” the user expressed.

Many critics argued Seyfried altered her stance when faced with personal scrutiny concerning the Theranos story. Others felt her actions revealed her hypocrisy, saying, “Seeing Amanda Seyfried for her true colors in full hypocrisy was cathartic.” Yet, some viewers defended Seyfried, stating her evolving opinion was essential to the documentary’s larger message. A user remarked, “The point is, Amanda herself changes her opinion on Elizabeth Holmes. So does Nathan Fielder. So does the audience.”

Elizabeth Holmes was convicted in January 2022 on four federal fraud charges for misleading investors about her blood-testing company’s technology. She was sentenced in November 2022 to 11 years and three months in prison. “You Can See Everything” examines Holmes’ attempts to regain control over her public image, exploring the divide between her self-perception and public perception. Holmes’ navigation of life post-scandal and her preparation for prison are focal points in the film.