In a revealing behind-the-scenes moment, documentary maker Louis Theroux engaged in a tense confrontation with social media personality Harrison Sullivan, known online as HStikkytokky, regarding the conflict in Israel and Gaza. The broadcaster's direct response to a question about genocide was notably edited out of the final version of his Netflix documentary, though the influencer's livestream captured the entire exchange.
Heated Exchange Over Israel and Genocide Allegations
The 55-year-old Theroux met with 24-year-old Sullivan as part of his investigative deep dive into the proliferation of misogynistic content spreading across digital platforms. During their discussion, Sullivan, prompted by a viewer during his livestream, pointedly asked Theroux, "are Israel committing genocide?" While this question appears in the Netflix production, Theroux's subsequent answer was removed from the edited broadcast.
Before Theroux could formulate a response, Sullivan repeatedly interrupted, accusing the documentary maker of being a "puppet" who cannot speak freely. He provocatively stated, "You are a puppet, you can't say what you want to say. That is enough said. You are a puppet the same way you are for Savile." This reference targeted Theroux's BAFTA-winning documentary about Jimmy Savile, for which he has previously faced criticism regarding his handling of the late presenter's predatory behaviour.
Theroux's Unaired Response on Genocide Claims
Despite the interruptions, Theroux eventually responded on the livestream, stating, "The UN is building a case that Israel is committing genocide and there is I think a prima facie binding their is strong ground for there is being a genocide. There is no question in my opinion that there is ethnic cleansing. Most experts in genocide say there is a genocide."
This commentary comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Theroux's perceived impartiality regarding Israel, particularly following his BBC2 documentary "Louis Theroux: The Settlers," which examined Israeli settlers in the West Bank. Concerns were raised due to his wife Nancy Strang's public political stance; she has signed statements accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza and condemning BBC coverage of the conflict. The BBC has stated that Strang was not involved in that project.
Broader Context of Theroux's Documentary and Criticism
Theroux's latest Netflix documentary explores the so-called "Manosphere," an online network of male influencers promoting anti-feminist ideologies and traditional masculinity. The project features Theroux interacting with figures like Sullivan, Myron Gaines, and Sneako, delving into how these creators shape young men's views on gender roles.
During filming, Sullivan's behaviour included homophobic remarks and contradictory stances, such as promoting adult content while criticising female performers. Theroux challenged him on these inconsistencies, comparing his actions to "holding up a box of donuts" while advising against eating them.
The documentary also captures personal moments, including Sullivan being scolded by his mother for rudeness, highlighting the contrast between his online persona and domestic life. Additionally, Theroux reflects on the influence such content might have on his own children, noting they likely spend more time on phones than in family conversation.
Previous Controversies and Platforming Debates
Theroux has faced previous criticism for platforming controversial figures. After interviewing punk singer Bob Vylan, who made inflammatory comments about Israeli troops at Glastonbury, former BBC executive Danny Cohen accused Theroux of having "lost the plot in a very dangerous way" by providing a platform for antisemitic rhetoric.
Throughout the new documentary, influencers filmed Theroux for their own social media channels, subjecting him to abuse and questions from followers. This led to Theroux receiving hostile comments about his past work with Jimmy Savile, illustrating the cyclical nature of online toxicity.
The documentary's release follows reports that Theroux is developing a new project inspired by the Netflix series "Adolescence," which addresses the online radicalisation of young men. This thematic continuity underscores his ongoing examination of digital culture's impact on society and personal identity.
