The release of Unknown Number on Netflix has quickly become one of the most talked-about moments in true-crime storytelling. The feature-length documentary, launched globally on August 29, 2025, unravels the chilling story of how a teenage girl and her boyfriend were relentlessly cyberbullied—only for the shocking truth to reveal that the abuser was the girl’s own mother.
The film, officially titled Unknown Number: The High School Catfish, blends interviews, reenactments, and investigative details to shed light on one of the most disturbing cyberbullying cases in recent American history.
Table of Contents
The Shocking Story at the Heart of the Documentary
The documentary follows 13-year-old Lauryn Licari and her boyfriend, Owen McKenny, who began receiving threatening and harassing text messages in 2020. At first, the texts seemed like the work of a random bully hiding behind an unknown number.
The harassment targeted Lauryn’s mental health, appearance, and relationship, creating constant fear and emotional turmoil. The abuse paused briefly but resumed with greater intensity in 2021, stretching over nearly two years.
Authorities eventually traced the anonymous messages to someone no one expected: Lauryn’s mother, Kendra Licari. The discovery shocked the small community of Beal City, Michigan, and left Lauryn devastated.
Netflix’s Adaptation of a Real Case
What makes Unknown Number on Netflix stand out is its documentary style. Directed by Skye Borgman, known for other acclaimed true-crime stories, the film runs for just over an hour and a half and maintains a tight, suspenseful narrative.
It explores not only the investigative process but also the emotional fallout. Interviews with Lauryn, her father, and others close to the case allow viewers to grasp the real-world impact of betrayal that came from within the family home.
Timeline of Events
To fully understand the case, the documentary provides a timeline:
- October 2020 – Harassing messages first appear, sent from an anonymous number.
- September 2021 – The bullying resumes after a brief pause.
- December 2022 – Law enforcement uncovers Kendra Licari as the sender.
- 2023 – Kendra pleads guilty to stalking a minor.
- August 2024 – Kendra is released on parole after serving time.
- August 2025 – Netflix releases the documentary to a worldwide audience.
This progression shows how long the deception lasted and how deeply it impacted Lauryn’s formative teenage years.
The Legal Outcome
After her arrest, Kendra Licari admitted to her actions and was sentenced to serve between 19 months and 5 years in prison. She was released in August 2024, having served the minimum term before being placed on parole.
The legal resolution provided some closure, but the emotional scars for Lauryn and her family remain at the center of the story.
Where Are They Now?
- Lauryn Licari – Now 18, Lauryn has spoken about how difficult it was to realize her mother was behind the messages. While she once sought reconciliation, her perspective has shifted to a more cautious and protective stance.
- Kendra Licari – Since her release, Kendra has been trying to rebuild her life. The documentary presents her reflections, including her acknowledgment of past trauma that influenced her actions, though viewers are left to draw their own conclusions.
- Shawn Licari – Lauryn’s father was granted full custody and continues to provide stability for his daughter.
Why the Story Resonates With Audiences
There are several reasons Unknown Number on Netflix has captivated global audiences:
- Unexpected betrayal – The revelation that a parent was behind the cyberbullying stunned viewers.
- Relevance of cyberbullying – With teens spending much of their lives online, the story highlights how digital harassment can be relentless and damaging.
- Family dynamics – The case forces audiences to question how trust can be shattered within the closest of relationships.
Viewer Reactions
Social media has been flooded with responses since the film’s release. Many viewers expressed disbelief at the mother’s actions, calling the story “almost unbelievable.” Others praised the documentary for giving Lauryn a voice and for shining a spotlight on the seriousness of cyberbullying.
Some critics pointed out that the film raised as many questions as it answered, particularly about Kendra’s motivations and mental health. Still, most agreed the story was handled with care, avoiding sensationalism while focusing on the human impact.
read also- https://usahousinginformation.com/black-rabbit-reviews/
Themes and Lessons From the Documentary
- The Power of Technology
The anonymity of texting apps allowed the harassment to persist for months, showing how digital platforms can be misused. - The Importance of Mental Health Awareness
Both Lauryn’s suffering and Kendra’s troubling behavior point to the need for better support systems for families. - Trust and Betrayal
The documentary reminds viewers that abuse can sometimes come from unexpected places, making vigilance and open communication critical.
Why Netflix Took On This Story
Netflix has a track record of producing impactful true-crime content. By choosing Unknown Number, the platform not only delivers gripping storytelling but also raises awareness of an issue affecting countless teenagers worldwide.
The global reach of Netflix ensures that Lauryn’s story is not confined to a small Michigan town but sparks conversations in living rooms across the globe.
Impact on Conversations Around Cyberbullying
The documentary has already prompted schools, parents, and teens to revisit conversations about online safety. Cyberbullying is often portrayed as peer-to-peer abuse, but Unknown Number on Netflix forces viewers to consider that harm can sometimes come from within families.
This broader perspective may lead to new discussions about how schools, communities, and families can better protect young people from digital harassment.
Final Thoughts
Unknown Number on Netflix is more than just a documentary—it is a cautionary tale about the hidden dangers of technology, the fragility of trust, and the resilience of those who survive betrayal. The story is deeply unsettling, yet it offers lessons that extend far beyond the Licari family.
If you’ve watched the documentary, what part struck you most—the investigation, the shocking reveal, or the resilience of Lauryn? Share your thoughts and let’s continue the discussion.