Brian Laundrie’s Parents Call Out 'Inaccuracies' in New Netflix Documentary About Gabby Petito: 'One-Sided' Perspective.
The parents of Brian Laundrie, whose son tragically killed his fiancée Gabby Petito during their cross-country trip in 2021, are speaking out against Netflix’s highly-anticipated documentary American Murder: Gabby Petito. Released on February 17, the three-part series has sparked intense reactions – especially from the Laundrie family.
In a statement released to People on February 26, Laundrie family lawyer Steven Bertolino slammed the documentary for presenting a “one-sided” view of the case, filled with “inaccuracies” and “incorrect timelines.”
Brian Laundrie parents
“The documentary was what we expected,” Bertolino said. “It shows only one perspective and presents it as the absolute ‘truth,’” drawing a comparison to today’s polarized political climate. “It’s hard to see through the lens of the other with all the noise and distrust.”
While the Laundrie family acknowledges Brian’s responsibility for Petito’s tragic death, they are pushing back against the portrayal of events and the lack of their side in the narrative. The credits of the series note the Laundries’ refusal to participate, and one of the directors confirmed that they had declined to be interviewed.
As the documentary aired, Brian’s sister, Cassie Laundrie, publicly distanced herself from her parents, revealing she has not spoken to them in nearly two years. In an Instagram post, she addressed critics who had recently targeted her, stating, “If you're new here, I’ve been non-contact with my parents for almost two years. Have fun.”
Gabby Petito and Brian Laundrie
The heart-wrenching case, which captured national attention, began when Petito, an aspiring YouTuber, was reported missing after she and Brian went on a road trip across the country. Her body was later discovered in Wyoming, with a coroner confirming she had been strangled.
Related: Gabby Petito’s Ex-Boyfriend Speaks Out
Following the discovery of Gabby’s body, Brian Laundrie disappeared, and his remains were found in a Florida nature preserve in October 2021. In a notebook found near his remains, Brian detailed his tragic version of events, claiming he ended Gabby’s life out of mercy.
While the Laundries continue to face public backlash, Gabby’s parents filed a civil lawsuit against them in March 2022, accusing them of hiding crucial details about their daughter’s death. Though the case was settled in 2024, the emotional toll on both families continues to resonate.
As the documentary continues to spark conversations, the Laundries are calling for peace and urging that both families be allowed to grieve privately.
