The Netflix series 'Wayward' is a gripping thriller-drama that delves into the dark secrets of a fictional school for troubled teens. But here's the twist: it's inspired by a chilling real-life institution that has left a trail of devastation in its wake. Prepare to be shocked as we uncover the truth behind this captivating series.
The Devil in the Details:
Wayward's eight-episode journey takes us through the lives of two best friends trapped in a sinister school, a mysterious founder, and a young couple entangled in the school's secrets. While the characters may seem fictional, they closely resemble the experiences of real-life teenagers sent to such institutions. The series, whether intentionally or not, mirrors the notorious CEDU, a troubled teen facility with a dark history of abuse.
A Personal Connection:
Creator Mae Martin, who plays Officer Alex Dempsey, drew from her own life for Wayward's scripts. As a wayward teen, Martin witnessed a friend's traumatic experience at a troubled teen camp. The show's details, from therapeutic tactics to the school logo, eerily echo CEDU's history. CEDU, once a thriving industry, was shut down due to lawsuits, mirroring Wayward's fictional institution, which was rife with brutality and mysterious disappearances.
Desperate Escapes and a Corrupt System:
The series begins with a teenager's desperate escape from the school, a scenario that reflects the terror of countless teens trying to flee similar institutions. CEDU, operating for 40 years, was a haven for abuse, with many attempting to escape. The show highlights the corrupt relationship between the school and local police in Tall Pines, a town shrouded in secrets. This mirrors CEDU's San Bernadeno campus, where local law enforcement turned a blind eye to missing teens, as revealed by Los Angeles Magazine.
A Real-Life Mystery:
Wayward's character Daniel, who meets an untimely end, echoes the story of Daniel Yuen, a teenager who went missing from CEDU. The show's inspiration for its cult-like elements comes from the Synanon cult, known for its violent history. The series incorporates Synanon's 'The Synanon Game,' a group therapy session, into the 'Hot Seat' sessions in Wayward. This therapy, along with other disturbing practices, was adopted by CEDU, founded by a former Synanon member.
Uncovering the Truth:
In Wayward, Deputy Alex encounters an activist, Maurice, who aims to expose the school's secrets. This mirrors the real-life experience of David Safran, a CEDU survivor, who was contacted by Detective Alisha Rosa to help investigate missing kids. Despite differences in their backstories, Safran notes striking similarities between his and Maurice's experiences. Safran, like many survivors, praises the show for shedding light on the industry's dark tactics but wishes it had delved deeper into the reality of life within these institutions.
The Controversial Truth:
As Wayward gains popularity, the question arises: will a potential second season explore the connections to CEDU and other real-life events? The show's impact is undeniable, but some survivors feel it could have gone further in depicting the harsh realities. Netflix, when contacted, did not immediately respond. Is Wayward a mere fictional thriller, or does it hold a deeper, controversial truth? The debate continues, leaving viewers with a chilling reminder of the power of storytelling and the impact of real-life inspirations.
