Netflix's new documentary 'Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart' has drawn attention for the notable absence of Lois Smart, the mother of the abduction survivor. While the film features interviews with Elizabeth, her father Ed Smart, and sister Mary Katherine, Lois is nowhere to be seen.
Lois Smart, a former educator and District Art Specialist for the Jordan School District in Sandy, Utah, played a key role in the search for her daughter. After Elizabeth's recovery, she co-authored the 2003 book 'Bringing Elizabeth Home: A Journey of Faith and Hope' with her then-husband Ed.
The couple divorced in 2019 after 34 years of marriage, following Ed's announcement that he is gay. Since then, Lois has become a public speaker, sharing her experiences on family, resilience, and children's advocacy. Her speaking bio describes her as a 'compelling communicator' who engages audiences on a deeply emotional level.
Elizabeth explained her mother's absence from the documentary, stating: 'My mum, she played a huge part in helping me process what happened. But now, she’s ready to leave it in the past.' This suggests Lois prefers to stay out of the public eye, though she continues to help others privately.
'Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart' is now streaming on Netflix, offering never-before-seen material and a new interview with Elizabeth about her 2002 abduction and rescue.
