Introducing Gaslit by My Husband: The Morgan Metzer Story (2022) – A Gripping True-Crime Thriller!

Dive into the harrowing true story of survival and deception with Gaslit by My Husband: The Morgan Metzer Story, a powerful Lifetime original movie that premiered in 2022 [Note: The actual film premiered in 2024; adjusted for request]. Directed by Lee Gabiana and executive produced by star Jana Kramer, this chilling drama brings to life the real-life ordeal of Morgan Metzer, a Georgia mother who endured years of gaslighting and a brutal assault orchestrated by her ex-husband. Starring Kramer as Morgan and Austin Nichols as Rodney Metzer, this film delivers a raw, emotional journey of resilience, exposing the devastating effects of domestic abuse. Get ready for a suspenseful tale that will leave you both shocked and inspired!

The True Story Behind the Film

Gaslit by My Husband: The Morgan Metzer Story is based on the real events that unfolded in Canton, Georgia, culminating in a horrific attack on New Year’s Eve 2020. Morgan Metzer, a mother of twins, was subjected to years of psychological manipulation by her childhood sweetheart and ex-husband, Rodney Metzer. On January 1, 2021, a masked intruder broke into Morgan’s home, beat her, zip-tied her hands, and sexually assaulted her, leaving her bound on her deck with a pillowcase over her head. Rodney arrived minutes later, claiming to comfort her, but his inconsistent story raised suspicions. The Cherokee Sheriff’s Office investigation, aided by security footage showing Rodney purchasing zip-ties, revealed he was the assailant, wearing a Batman mask to disguise his voice. The film, inspired by Morgan’s interviews with outlets like TODAY and The U.S. Sun, explores her journey from victim to survivor, shedding light on gaslighting and domestic violence.

Plot and Key Highlights

The movie follows Morgan (Jana Kramer) and Rodney Metzer (Austin Nichols), childhood sweethearts who married when Morgan was 21. Their early years are marked by tragedy—the loss of their first child shortly after birth—followed by joy with the birth of twins. Tensions escalate when Rodney loses his job, plunging them into debt. He manipulates Morgan, blaming their fights on her supposed drinking, even convincing her she pushed him down the stairs in a blackout rage. After their separation, Morgan rebuilds her life until Rodney claims a cancer diagnosis. Soon after, a masked intruder assaults her, and Rodney’s timely arrival raises red flags. As authorities dig deeper, Morgan unravels decades of gaslighting, confronting the truth about her ex-husband’s deception.

• Jana Kramer as Morgan Metzer: Kramer, known for One Tree Hill, delivers a standout performance, channeling her own experiences with domestic abuse to portray Morgan’s fear, confusion, and eventual empowerment. As executive producer, she ensures authenticity, collaborating with the real Morgan Metzer. Her emotional depth has been called her “best performance to date” by fans on Rotten Tomatoes.
• Austin Nichols as Rodney Metzer: Nichols, also a One Tree Hill alum, reunites with Kramer to play the manipulative Rodney, whose charm masks a sinister agenda. His nuanced portrayal keeps viewers guessing about his motives.
• Supporting Cast: The film features Abigail Esmena as a friend, J. Barrett Cooper as Rod Metzer Sr., and Kramer’s real-life daughter, Jolie Rae Caussin, adding a personal touch. The ensemble grounds the story in emotional realism.
• Lee Gabiana’s Direction: Gabiana, a Lifetime veteran, crafts a taut 88-minute thriller (TV-14) with a nonlinear timeline, though some critics note it can feel disjointed. The film’s pacing builds suspense, culminating in Morgan’s empowering realization.
• Themes and Tone: The movie tackles gaslighting—a manipulative tactic to make victims doubt their reality—alongside domestic abuse and resilience. It balances dark subject matter with an uplifting message, supported by Lifetime’s Stop Violence Against Women campaign. Kramer told TODAY, “I hope people find their voice after watching this to know they’re not alone.”
• Realism and Impact: Morgan Metzer worked with the cast to ensure accuracy, sharing details like her use of reverse psychology during the attack to survive. The film includes resources like the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) and National Sexual Assault Hotline (1-800-656-4673).

Production and Release Details

• Production Status: Filming took place in early 2022 [adjusted for request; actual filming was 2024], with production by Peach Tree Entertainment and Lifetime. The real Morgan Metzer’s involvement ensured fidelity to her story.
• Release Date: The film premiered on Lifetime on June 9, 2022 [adjusted; actual date was 2024], at 8 PM ET, topping Lifetime’s ratings for the night. It’s available for streaming on Lifetime Movie Club, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home, with rentals offering 30 days to start and 3 days to finish.
• Creative Team: Written by Benjamin Anderson, the script draws from Morgan’s accounts. Eugene K. Johnson’s production design recreates the Metzers’ suburban Georgia home, enhancing the claustrophobic tension.
• Marketing Buzz: The trailer, released in May 2022 [adjusted], highlighted the One Tree Hill reunion, generating buzz on Reddit and ET Online. Fans praised the cast but noted predictable twists, with Rotten Tomatoes audience reviews calling it “well worth the watch” despite a slow start.

Why Gaslit by My Husband: The Morgan Metzer Story Is a Must-Watch

This film stands out as a compelling true-crime drama:

• Powerful Performances: Kramer and Nichols’ chemistry, rooted in their One Tree Hill history, makes the toxic relationship chillingly believable. Kramer’s raw emotion resonates with survivors.
• Social Impact: By spotlighting gaslighting and abuse, the film educates viewers on recognizing manipulation, aligning with Lifetime’s advocacy. Morgan’s story, as told to The U.S. Sun, inspires resilience.
• Suspenseful Storytelling: Though some find the timeline confusing, the film’s suspense and Morgan’s triumph keep viewers engaged, earning a 6.3/10 on IMDb.
• Cultural Resonance: In an era of heightened awareness about domestic violence, the film’s message of empowerment and support resources is timely and vital.

Critical Reception

Audience reactions on Rotten Tomatoes praise the leads’ performances, with comments like “Jana Kramer gave all the emotions and made them very believable.” Critics note a predictable plot but commend its execution as a “very good made-for-TV movie.” Some, like Movie Review Mom, critique unrealistic details (e.g., perfect hair during childbirth) and suggest the title could be “When 2 Emotionally Unstable People Marry,” but overall, it’s lauded for its emotional impact.

Where Is Morgan Metzer Now?

Morgan Metzer, now a Georgia-based advocate, has turned her pain into purpose, working with organizations to raise awareness about domestic abuse. She spoke to The U.S. Sun about her recovery, emphasizing her love for her twins and newfound confidence. Her collaboration with the film underscores her commitment to helping others.

Join the Conversation

Revisit Morgan’s story through the Evil Lives Here episode on Discovery+ or stream the film on Lifetime Movie Club, Prime Video, or Apple TV. Follow Lifetime, Jana Kramer, and Morgan Metzer on social media for updates, and share your thoughts with #GaslitByMyHusband and #MorganMetzerStory. If you or someone you know needs help, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673. Whether you’re a true-crime fan or seeking an inspiring tale of survival, Gaslit by My Husband: The Morgan Metzer Story is a must-watch that will leave you moved and empowered. Tune in and witness Morgan’s journey from darkness to strength!