A 'disturbing' true crime documentary aired on ITV has left viewers with their 'jaw on the floor' and is now available to stream for free on ITVX. The programme, titled WhatsApp Obsession: The Murder of Stephanie Hansen, revisits the events of December 2022 when 39-year-old Stephanie Hansen was fatally stabbed in her London residence.
The documentary reveals how her flatmate, Sheldon Rodrigues, initially appeared distraught but was hiding a dark truth. According to ITV, 'His jealousy and obsession turned deadly.' Rodrigues had been consumed by an obsession with Stephanie for at least seven years, even considering surgery to transform his appearance in pursuit of her affections. When she rejected him, he carried out a fatal attack after discovering through a surveillance device that she was in a relationship.
The film features testimonies from officers involved in the investigation, alongside devastating accounts from Stephanie's family and friends. Detective Sergeant Brian Jones admitted he was 'choked up' when discussing the case. One police sergeant confessed he was 'choked up' when talking about the investigation.
True crime enthusiasts have described the documentary as a 'must watch' and 'heartbreaking'. On TikTok, one user said it 'will scare you senseless', while another remarked it 'will stick with you'. A viewer on X posted: 'That #whatsappobsession doc is a bit mad!' Another declared: '#TheMurderOfStephanieHansen is such a shocking watch.'
ITV has issued a warning for the programme, citing 'Strong language, Violence, Domestic abuse, Real crime'. The documentary is available to stream free on ITVX.
