Disney+ has released the trailer for its upcoming documentary 'My Grandfather Charles Manson', set to premiere on July 22 on Hulu and Disney+. The programme follows filmmaker Sophia Maddox, who discovers through a DNA test that she is the granddaughter of notorious cult leader Charles Manson.
Personal Journey Into Dark History
Maddox began investigating her family history after the revelation, leading her to ask tough questions about her identity. The documentary provides unprecedented access to never-before-seen recordings and information due to her familial connection. In the trailer, Maddox undergoes a personality questionnaire similar to one Manson took, revealing shocking parallels. At one point she says: "I really can't do it anymore," highlighting the emotional toll of the exploration.
Maddox told People magazine: "What began as a way to process a shocking family discovery became a deeper investigation into generational trauma, identity, and whether we're destined to repeat the stories we inherit. Ultimately, I hope the film reminds people that while we can't choose where we come from, we can choose what we do with that history."
New Family Revelations
The documentary also features Maddox's father, Daniel Arguelles, Manson's son, who bears a striking resemblance to the criminal. Previously, Manson was known to have three sons: Charles Manson Jr., Charles Luther Manson, and Michael Brunner. The film reveals a new branch of the family tree. Maddox started filming herself as a coping mechanism after the discovery, while her relationship with her father grew strained.
Public Reaction
After the trailer landed on YouTube, viewers compared it to 'Tiger King'. One commenter wrote: "I'm not really a documentary guy but this looks fascinating! It could be the next Tiger King." Another praised Maddox: "Wow Sophia is a brave human. Looking forward to this." A third said: "Manson has always fascinated me - The nature vs nurture aspect... This will be one interesting documentary."
Background on Charles Manson
Manson and his followers, known as the Manson Family, were found guilty of murdering actress Sharon Tate, who was pregnant, along with two others in a 1969 spree. He was later convicted of two additional murders. The crimes shocked America and continue to haunt the national consciousness. Manson died in 2017 at age 83 after four decades in prison.
'My Grandfather Charles Manson' will be released on Disney+ on July 22.
