The highly popular Scamanda podcast has been adapted for the small screen. ABC greenlit Scamanda, a docuseries based on the No. 1 podcast of the same name. The docuseries was originally set to air in October of 2024 but has now been pushed back to 2025. Fans took to Reddit to express their frustration with having to wait until 2025 to watch for the long awaited miniseries.
The announcement of the delay was shared on the subreddit r/ScamandaPodcast, eliciting a wave of disappointment from fans. Many expressed their frustration over the fact that the delay was caused by the streaming of NFL games.
Produced by Pilgrim Media Group, a division of Lionsgate Alternative Television, for ABC News Studios, Scamanda follows the compelling story of Amanda Riley. Amanda is a wife, mother, blogger, and devout Christian whose heartbreaking battle with cancer has captured the hearts of thousands.
However, Amanda harbored a secret that she is desperate to conceal. When an anonymous tip leads to an investigative reporter uncovering the truth, Amanda’s own words may ultimately lead to her downfall.
The podcast was launched in May 2023 and comprised of five episodes, which have since been transformed into a documentary series. Investigative journalist Nancy Moscatiello meticulously unraveled the clues surrounding Riley’s fabricated cancer diagnosis. The series delves into Riley’s deceit in a true-crime format, while also providing a platform for her victims to recount their individual encounters
SPOILERS AHEAD- For anyone who hasn’t listened to the podcast or who is unfamiliar with the story and doesn’t want to know the details, stop reading here!
The inspiring journey began in 2012 when Riley shared her diagnosis of Stage 3 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in a blog post titled “Lymphoma Can Suck It.” The blog quickly gained popularity, capturing the attention of her local community and celebrities worldwide. This newfound attention resulted in an outpouring of support in the form of generous gifts, financial assistance for her treatment, and invitations to various events.
After a period of intense treatment, Riley joyfully announced that she was cancer-free, a moment that was met with celebration and admiration from her community. She began sharing her story at her church, where she was seen as a symbol of resilience and faith.
Unfortunately, Riley’s remission was short-lived, as she later revealed on her blog that her cancer had returned, coinciding with the news of her pregnancy. This unexpected turn of events brought about a new chapter in Riley’s journey, one that would test her strength and determination once again.
The community rallied together to show their support for Amanda, organizing fundraisers to help cover the costs of her treatments. However, their efforts were shattered when investigative producer Nancy Mosciatello received an anonymous tip revealing that Riley’s cancer diagnosis was a hoax. It was discovered that Amanda had deceived everyone for financial gain.
Moscatiello’s sister had passed away from cancer, making this case deeply personal for her. To uncover the truth and expose Riley’s deceit, she diligently contacted all the hospitals and clinics where Riley claimed to have received treatment. Additionally, she meticulously analyzed the photos posted on Riley’s blog that documented her supposed medical journey. After compiling all her evidence, Moscatiello sought the expertise of Jose Martinez, a retired financial crimes detective, who then referred the case to the IRS for further investigation. As a result of their thorough examination, Riley was formally charged in July 2020.
In May 2022, Riley pleaded guilty to wire fraud and was subsequently ordered to pay back a total of $105,513 and she was sentenced to five years in prison for her actions. This case marked a significant milestone in IRS history as it was the first financial conviction of an individual who falsely claimed to have cancer for the purpose of fundraising. Over the span of eight years, Riley deceived a total of 349 individuals into donating money to her.
Amanda Riley is currently incarcerated at FMC Carswell, a federal prison in Fort Worth, Texas. It has been alleged that Riley may be suffering from a condition known as Munchausen’s syndrome. According to The Guardian, “Three doctors and a nurse who have treated her during her incarceration wrote in their notes that she appears to have factitious disorder, an alternative name for Münchausen. A fourth doctor actually diagnosed her with it.”
Prosecutors have accused her of feigning various illnesses while in custody, such as chest pains and head trauma. It appears that Riley has been manipulating tests and symptoms in order to portray herself as having serious health issues. While there may be an underlying illness, it is believed to be related to her mental health.
As of now, an official airdate for the docuseries has not been announced. The only information available is that it is scheduled to premiere sometime in 2025.
