LADBIBLE STORIES MOVES INTO LONG-FORM DOCUMENTARY

LADbible Stories is stepping into long-form documentary with the launch of its first original feature-length documentary, Nemo the Mormon: Faith on Trial, as it expands its factual slate and wider entertainment offering.

The move marks an expansion of LADbible Group’s wider strategy, building on a channel that has now reached 3 million subscribers and extending LADbible Group’s factual entertainment offering into ambitious long-form originals for young audiences. 

Nemo the Mormon: Faith on Trial follows Douglas Stilgoe, known online as Nemo the Mormon, a third-generation member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, whose outspoken criticism of the Church ultimately led to him being summoned to a membership council and accused of apostasy.

Following his appearance on LADbible’s Honesty Box in 2023 and a subsequent BBC interview, Stilgoe faced the prospect of being banned from the Church. Faith on Trial follows the events surrounding the council and explores what happens when an institution that has shaped someone’s faith, family and identity rejects their public criticism.

The documentary also examines Stilgoe’s campaign for stronger safeguarding measures and wider safeguarding concerns within faith communities. Former Church member David Shepherd discusses his experiences of childhood “worthiness interviews”, while UK-based Mormon YouTuber Ben Hancock offers a contrasting perspective from within the faith.

The documentary builds on LADbible Stories’ growing slate of distinctive factual entertainment, including Honesty Box, the audience-led format that has featured guests including Louis Theroux, Brian Cox, Tim Peake and Robert Irwin.

Becky Gardner, Head of Originals at LADbible Group said, ”Faith on Trial is an important next step for LADbible, reflecting our commitment to pushing boundaries in factual storytelling with ambitious, long-form documentaries for young audiences. Douglas’ story is personal, but it opens a wider conversation about faith and identity while welcoming diverse perspectives. It’s an exciting opportunity to explore how long-form storytelling can deepen the conversations we’re already having with our audience”.