Netflix's new limited series, Apple Cider Vinegar, delves into the controversial world of Belle Gibson, an Australian wellness scammer who fabricated a cancer diagnosis to build her empire. The show, however, stops short of addressing the messy legal fallout that followed Gibson's public implosion. This raises questions about the true story behind the dramatization and what actually happened to the people involved, particularly her son.
Who Is Belle Gibson?
Annabelle Natalie Gibson, born on October 8, 1991, is a disgraced Australian influencer and pseudoscience advocate. She gained notoriety for falsely claiming she had a brain tumor and cured herself through holistic treatments. Her deceit led to the creation of The Whole Pantry, a food and beverage app, which briefly made her a prominent figure in Australia's health and wellness industry. However, her lies unraveled when it was revealed that her cancer diagnosis was entirely fabricated.
Does Belle Gibson Have a Son?
A central theme in the Netflix series is Gibson's relationship with her son. In real life, Belle Gibson does indeed have a child named Oliver, born in 2010. Despite her web of lies, this part of her life appears to be genuine. Apple Cider Vinegar portrays her as a single mother struggling to raise her son while dealing with personal and professional challenges. Clive Rothwell, portrayed by Ashley Zukerman in the series, plays a significant role in supporting both Belle and her son.
What Happened to Belle Gibson’s Son?
The fate of Belle Gibson's son, Oliver, remains largely private. As of recent years, his whereabouts are undisclosed, and Gibson has kept him out of the public eye following her legal troubles. While the series ends with a depiction of Belle living in Los Angeles with her son and Clive Rothwell, the reality is less clear. Many fans speculate about Oliver's well-being and whether he continues to live with his mother or if he resides elsewhere.
Belle Gibson’s actions undoubtedly left a lasting impact on her son. Social media users have expressed concern for Oliver, noting the difficulties children face when their parents struggle with mental illness or deception. One user commented, “She has a son, I hope he's okay. I know what it's like having a mother with a mental illness—it’s hard.”
Clive Rothwell: A Key Figure in Belle Gibson’s Life
Clive Rothwell, portrayed as a supportive partner in the series, played a crucial role in Gibson's life post-scandal. According to reports, Gibson owed Rothwell $90,000 for legal fees related to her case. Their relationship dynamics are explored in Apple Cider Vinegar, where Rothwell helps raise Oliver alongside Belle. However, the exact nature of their connection—whether romantic or platonic—remains ambiguous even today.
Where Is Belle Gibson Now?
Following the exposure of her scam, Belle Gibson faded from the limelight. Though she once boasted over 73,000 followers on Instagram, her current activities remain largely unknown. Some sources suggest she relocated to Los Angeles, but concrete evidence is scarce. The series hints at her attempts to rebuild her life, yet it avoids diving into specifics about her present circumstances.
Fact vs. Fiction in Apple Cider Vinegar
While Apple Cider Vinegar aims to stay faithful to Gibson's story, creative liberties were taken to enhance its dramatic appeal. For instance, the portrayal of her interactions with family members, including her son, may differ slightly from reality. Viewers must approach the narrative critically, recognizing that some elements might be exaggerated for entertainment purposes.
Ultimately, the series leaves viewers questioning the boundaries between truth and fiction. It sheds light on the complexities surrounding Gibson's choices and their consequences, especially for those closest to her, such as her son Oliver. As interest in her story continues to grow, more details may emerge about her current life and the welfare of her family.
Conclusion
Netflix's Apple Cider Vinegar offers a fascinating glimpse into the rise and fall of Belle Gibson, exploring themes of deception, redemption, and the human cost of public scandals. While the show provides valuable insights, it also underscores the importance of separating fact from fiction. For now, the lives of Belle Gibson and her son remain shrouded in mystery, inviting further investigation and reflection.
