Breaking Idol: new documentary

For years, J.B.’s identity was legally protected.
Now, she’s lifted her publication to share her story of survival, resilience and of reclaiming power.

Breaking Idol is a new documentary from CBC based in part on the Canadian True Crime series The Trial of Hedley’s Jacob Hoggard.

From CBC, Breaking Idol is a new documentary that explores the collision of fandom, power, and truth — revealing what happens when a survivor dares to reclaim her name and challenge the culture that protected her abuser.

BREAKING IDOL centers on J.B., formerly known only as “the Ottawa survivor”, who stood at the heart of one of Canada’s largest and most high-profile sexual assault trials.

Her case against musician Jacob Hoggard, frontman of the multi-platinum band Hedley, captivated the country and divided fans of all ages.

As J.B. navigates the aftermath of the trial and the relentless online harassment that followed, BREAKING IDOL confronts the darker side of fame, power, and public complicity.

J.B. in conversation with Kristi Lee in Breaking Idol

Director/Writer Tiffany Hsiung
Executive Producer Jamie Brown
Supervising Producer Sally Karam
Produced by Frantic Films for CBC’s The Passionate Eye

Consulting Producer Kristi Lee
Special thanks to J.B. and Kelly Favro

Based in part on Canadian True Crime’s podcast series The Trial of Hedley’s Jacob Hoggard

Steam now on CBC Gem and YouTube