ABUSED: RICHARD SPENCER FEATURE-LENGTH DOCUMENTARY ANNOUNCED FOR CHANNEL 5

Channel 5 has announced that it has commissioned a new feature length (1 x 90’) documentary focusing on the shocking story of how Richard Spencer became subjected to twenty-years of abuse at the hands of his wife, Sheree Spencer.

Abused: Richard Spencer (w/t), tells the exclusive tale of the suffering that Richard endured, illustrated with exclusive access to a compelling series of videos, audio clips and written testimonials that give an intimate look at his harrowing ordeal.

Produced by the award-winning team at Atticus Film & TV, this documentary sheds light on the years of gaslighting, coercive control and emotional/physical abuse that Richard suffered and, crucially, also asks why he remained in his marriage.

In doing so it highlights the tactics Sheree used to keep Richard trapped in a cycle of violence by manipulating the truth to maintain her control over him. Viewers will hear from Richard in his own words about the gradual escalation of abuse and the devastating impact it had on his mental and physical well-being.

Abused: Richard Spencer (w.t) also features contributions from the dedicated police officers at Humberside who spearheaded the investigation and documents how their tireless work eventually led to Sheree’s arrest and sentence to four years in prison earlier this year.

Channel 5 and Paramount + Commissioning Editor Adrian Padmore says: “We are extremely grateful to Richard for his bravery in sharing his story with us. The team at Atticus Film and Television have captured an incredibly honest portrayal of Richard's journey of survival and resilience. His strength to break free from the cycle of abuse and seek justice is both extraordinary and inspirational. We sincerely hope this film can raise awareness to help support those suffering in this often-hidden world.”

Executive Producer, John Hay commented: “Described by arresting Officer as ‘the only time I have seen someone destroyed at every level of their being’, the access we have secured is quite remarkable and includes the 36 videos Richard recorded on a home security camera that led to his wife’s conviction. This, along with Richard’s emotionally compelling testimony, has resulted in a film that documents this crime in a way that viewers will never have seen before.”

Abused: Richard Spencer (w.t) has been commissioned by Adrian Padmore for Channel 5. It is executive produced by John Hay and directed by David Ward at Atticus Film & TV.