Lifetime has announced a new two-part original movie, The 13th Wife: Escaping Polygamy, starring Felicity Huffman, Olga Petsa, and Eric Johnson. Based on a true story, the film event premieres over two nights, May 31st and June 1st at 8/7c.
Here’s the Lowdown: The movie tells the story of Rena Chynoweth, portrayed by Huffman in the present day and Petsa as her younger self. It details her experiences after moving to a secluded polygamist Mormon community in Mexico led by brothers Ervil (Johnson) and Joel LeBaron. As Ervil’s influence grows violent, Rena becomes his 13th wife at 16 and is drawn into his dark activities.
What This Means Now: Premiering May 31st and June 1st, the film depicts Rena’s harrowing life within the group, including being coerced into murder, her eventual escape after Ervil’s arrest, and her subsequent efforts to help others leave similar situations. Huffman leads the cast, marking a significant role for the actress.
The Bigger Picture: This Lifetime movie event brings Rena Chynoweth’s real-life struggle for survival and freedom to the screen. It shines a light on the dangers of manipulative group dynamics and coercive control within closed communities, focusing on one woman’s resilience and her determination to not only escape but also to advocate for others trapped in similar circumstances.
