The film ‘The Blind Side’ garnered Sandra Bullock an Academy Award for Best Actress. This propelled her into a heightened realm of recognition. Presently, significant revelations have emerged from Michael Oher. The central figure of the movie, shedding light on the truth behind the narrative.
The spotlight has now turned toward Sandra Bullock, as people seek her perspective on this matter
Michael Oher, a retired NFL star, has not only gained popularity due to his remarkable athletic prowess. He also found fame due to his inspirational life journey. A journey that was immortalized in a prominent cinematic production featuring notable talents such as Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw, and Kathy Bates, among others.
The film portrays the affluent Tuohy family who ostensibly adopt Michael Oher, rescuing him from destitution. However, Oher has recently lodged a petition in a Tennessee court. He is challenging the purported adoption and asserting that it was in fact a ‘conservatorship’ arrangement. One he was deceptively coerced into signing.
Read: Sandra Bullock nailed why we should stop saying ‘adopted child’
In a 14-page submission to a Shelby County, Tennessee probate court, Oher contends that Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy never legally adopted him. Instead, upon his reaching the age of 18, they manipulated him into signing a conservatorship agreement. One which granted them the authority to engage in business transactions under his name.
It doesn’t end there
The petition also alleges that the Tuohys exploited the conservatorship to broker a film deal that yielded millions of dollars for them and their biological children. While Oher received no compensation for the story that was essentially built around his life.
The legal filing asserts, “The misrepresentation of Michael’s adoption is a falsehood that Co-Conservators Leigh Anne Tuohy and Sean Tuohy have exploited to enrich themselves at the expense of their Ward, the undersigned Michael Oher.” It further states, “Michael Oher discovered this untruth to his dismay and embarrassment in February of 2023 when he realized that the Conservatorship he consented to, believing it would make him a part of the Tuohy family. In reality severed any familial connection with the Tuohys.“
The Tuohys denied the allegations
In response, Sean Tuohy conveyed through a statement to the media that they did not financially benefit from the movie itself, but rather received a share of the proceeds from Michael Lewis’ book, which served as the source material for the film. “We are profoundly distressed,” remarked Sean Tuohy. “The idea of profiting from any of our children is distressing. Nevertheless, we will continue to cherish Michael at 37 just as we did when he was 16.”
People are calling for Sandra Bullock’s Oscar to be revoked
Since the mentioned film not only thrust this narrative into international prominence but also earned Sandra Bullock an Oscar, there is an increasing call for her to provide her perspective. A user on the X platform (formerly Twitter) remarked, “She attained a significant accolade for the film. Deriving both financial and professional gain from her portrayal of the lead role. Were she not in mourning for her partner, it would be reasonable to request her viewpoint on ethical and journalistic grounds.”
It’s worth noting that the actress recently experienced the loss of her long-term partner Bryan Randall on August 5th due to a three-year battle with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). However, some believe that her personal loss does not absolve her from addressing the ongoing situation. There is even a segment of individuals who are advocating for the retraction of her Oscar.
Sandra Bullock finds herself in a challenging period, contending with the deeply personal loss of her partner Bryan Randall while simultaneously navigating the revelations surrounding her Oscar-winning role. Which may be founded on questionable premises.
Sources
- “Here’s Everything You Need To Know About “The Blind Side” Scandal And Why Sandra Bullock Is Being Vehemently Defended Online.” BuzzFeed News. Stephanie Soteriou. August 16, 2023
- “Sandra Bullock subjected to online hate amid shocking ‘Blind Side’ claims.” NY Post. Jack Hobbs. August 15, 2023