Disney+ Delays Premiere of In Their Name, Then Returns Rights to Producer
The streaming service Disney+ has scheduled the premiere of In Their Name for November 23, but the project has faced a turbulent run. The documentary, framed as a portrait of justice and accountability, centers on a photographer from San Sebastian who was convicted last summer and sentenced to 28 years in prison for crimes related to sexual misconduct with models, including some who were underage. The film’s narrative includes testimonies from victims and archival imagery that chronicles the alleged abuse and the path to legal resolution. The public conversation around the film intensified as details emerged about the photographer’s behavior and the broader impact on those who were harmed.
After postponing the premiere without a firm new date, Disney+ announced that it would not broadcast the documentary. The platform decided to return all rights to the producer, a move that has sparked discussions about the timing and responsibilities of streaming platforms when faced with contentious titles. The producer remains focused on bringing the work to audiences, with reports from sources such as Vozpópuli noting that there is ongoing consideration of where and when the film might be shown in the future, and who will help guide its release (Citation: Vozpópuli).
The material in the series presents an array of perspectives, including the accounts of several victims who allege abuse by the photographer. The case has drawn attention to issues of power, exploitation, and accountability within the photography and fashion worlds. Because the subject matter involves serious criminal conduct and survivors’ experiences, the project has faced heightened scrutiny from media outlets, regulatory bodies, and advocacy groups. The discussion around In Their Name remains active as producers explore new avenues for distribution and potential premieres while ensuring that the voices of those affected are treated with care and respect (Citation: Vozpópuli).
As the situation evolves, industry watchers and audiences alike are watching to see how the documentary may eventually reach viewers. The decision to pause its release underscores the varied considerations that come with presenting sensitive content in the streaming era, including the responsibilities of distributors to handle allegations of abuse and give space to survivor narratives. The case continues to be a touchstone for debates about consent, representation, and the ethics of documentary storytelling in today’s media landscape (Citation: Vozpópuli).