Lifetime announces the casting of Felicity Huffman (Criminal Minds), Olga Petsa (I Used to Be Funny) and Eric Johnson (Fifty Shades of Grey) in the new two part original movie, The 13th Wife: Escaping Polygamy premiering May 31st and June 1st @ 8PM/7c. The film is based on the extraordinary true story of Rena Chynoweth (played by Huffman as present-day Rena and Petsa as young Rena), a brave survivor and former wife of a manipulative polygamist group leader, who escaped a life of oppression and dedicated herself to freeing others.
When Rena and her family arrive in Colonia Le Baron, a secluded polygamist Mormon settlement in Mexico, they are commanded to relinquish all their earthly possessions and devote themselves to the doctrines of the LeBaron brothers, Ervil (Johnson) and Joel. However, as the brothers’ insatiable thirst for power ignites growing discord, the community fractures, and Rena’s family aligns with Ervil. As his teachings take a harrowing turn towards violence, Rena witnesses the transformation of devoted followers into ruthless killers, indoctrinated to carry out brutal acts. At just 16 years old, Rena becomes Ervil’s 13th wife, groomed to serve as one of his so-called ‘holy assassins’. After being coerced into committing murder against a rival polygamist, Rena miraculously escapes conviction, yet her fear for her life and her daughter’s safety becomes palpable. When Ervil is unexpectedly arrested, Rena seizes the opportunity to escape the oppressive settlement, bringing her daughter and other loved ones with her. Driven by her harrowing experiences, she vows to help others break free from the confines of a life she never wanted.
The 13th Wife: Escaping Polygamy is produced by MCPA Films, with Brad Krevoy and Amy Hartwick serving as executive producers. Michael Nankin directs from a script by Anne-Marie Hess.
