The six-episode limited series was created by Samantha Strauss, who lived in Melbourne during Gibson’s rise to fame. Strauss’s background in writing for shows like Nine Perfect Strangers informs the cultural examination of wellness trends, start-up culture, and social media’s lack of regulation. Although based on a true story, the series blends fact with fiction, inspired by The Woman Who Fooled the World by journalists Beau Donelly and Nick Toscano.
Kaitlyn Dever stars as Belle Gibson, with Alycia Debnam-Carey playing Milla Blake, another young woman trying to use wellness to cure cancer. As both women build online platforms promoting wellness, they gain global followings, though their stories are ultimately lies. The series delves into the way wellness culture, social media, and food trends have been used to manipulate vulnerable people.
The cast includes Aisha Dee as Milla’s close friend Chanelle, who works with Belle, and Tilda Cobham-Hervey as Lucy, a cancer patient who is drawn into their influence. Other notable actors include Mark Coles Smith, Ashley Zukerman, and Essie Davis, among others. Though Dever is not Australian, her accent work to portray Belle Gibson has been widely praised.
Filming took place in Melbourne, showcasing the city as an aspirational location. The series is produced by See-Saw Films, with Strauss serving as an executive producer. Apple Cider Vinegar was directed by Jeffrey Walker, known for The Clearing and Modern Family. The title itself symbolizes the hope people place in wellness products, though the series underscores the dangers of false promises. The release date of Apple Cider Vinegar is yet to be announced.
