THE FOOTBALL FRAUDSTER - ITV1/ Netflix (Collective Media)

PRODUCER/ DIRECTOR

This 90’ feature documentary tells the incredible story of fraudster Medi Abalimba, a failed footballer who spun a complex web of deception to perpetuate the exclusive lifestyle he felt entitled to. He impersonated a Chelsea footballer, an American football player and business tycoons to defraud a huge range of victims from the worlds of TV, sport and business. His crimes funded a jet-setting life of luxury hotels, private helicopters, high-end fashion and celebrity girlfriends, including the ex-wife of Thierry Henry.

Built from compelling victim testimony, the film builds a gripping narrative full of twists and revelations. With analysis from forensic psychologist Dr. Donna Youngs - who had access to unseen police documents - we find out why the unique circumstances of the victims made them so susceptible to his scams.

The film was nominated for a Broadcast Digital Award (Best True Crime Documentary) and a True Crime Award (Outstanding True Crime Film).

Commissioned by ITVX as a 67’ film, a longer 86’ version was sold to Netflix and reached no.4 on their ‘UK Films Chart’. It also broadcast at 9pm on ITV1.

PRESS

‘The mindset of both victim and perpetrator is fascinating, and forensic psychologist Donna Youngs dissected it with precision’, Christopher Stevens, Daily Mail. * * * *

‘Bear witness to his slick shape-shifting MO in this fascinating attempt to unpick the conman’s tangled web.' Victoria Seagal, The Sunday Times.

‘Slick,’ The Radio Times.

‘The incredible story of serial fraudster Medi Abalimba, who reinvented himself over and over,’ Mail On Sunday. * * *