The film explores how Berchtold used psychological manipulation and "alien" brainwashing to alienate Jan from her family. It also addresses the "generational trauma" caused by his actions, including his sexual involvement with and blackmail of both of Jan's parents to maintain access to her. Production Information A Friend of the Family: True Evil - Apple TV
The documentary focuses on the reality of grooming and the long-term journey of healing. Key elements include: A Friend of the Family: True Evil (2022)
: Follows Jan as she revisits significant locations, including the bedroom where her abuse began and the site in Mexico where she was eventually rescued. Key elements include: : Follows Jan as she
: Introduces another survivor of Berchtold's abuse who shares her experience for the first time. : NBC News correspondent Andrea Canning serves as
: Features all-new interviews with Jan Broberg, her mother Mary Ann, her sisters, and her son, Austen.
: NBC News correspondent Andrea Canning serves as the guide for the exploration, with additional context from clinical psychologist Dr. Elizabeth Jeglic . Core Themes
(2022) is a feature-length documentary that serves as a companion piece to the Peacock scripted limited series, A Friend of the Family . Released on November 15, 2022, the 90-minute film provides a deeper, non-fiction look into the harrowing true story of Jan Broberg and the manipulation her family faced at the hands of Robert Berchtold. Documentary Focus and Highlights