The review criticises Channel 4’s Don’t Date Brandon as a poorly constructed true-crime series that fails to convey the psychological harm experienced by the women involved. Although the story could illuminate coercive control and deception, the reviewer argues that its thin treatment makes it feel voyeuristic and misguided rather than informative.

The programme follows Amber Rasmussen and Brandon Johnson’s first wife, Athena Klingerman, as they uncover his lies after Amber contacts Athena. Johnson allegedly fabricated messages, falsely portrayed Athena as unstable, claimed illnesses including cancer, concealed an affair and used supposed work travel as cover; he also involved their four-year-old daughter, Sydney, in keeping secrets. The reviewer says these revelations are rushed into the end of the first episode, while too much time is spent recounting events without explaining their emotional and psychological impact.