Singer Duffy to share harrowing story of kidnap and abuse in Disney+ doc

Singer Duffy is set to share her story after years away from the spotlight, following a harrowing time in her life that saw her kidnapped and sexually abused.

Best known for songs like “Mercy” and “Warwick Avenue”, Duffy shot to fame in the 2000s around the globe. But she suddenly vanished, with her third studio album never materialising.

Ten years later, in 2020, the Welsh singer, real name Aimée Anne Duffy, shared a shocking social media post explaining where she’d been.

She revealed that a decade earlier, she’d been drugged, kidnapped and taken to another country, where she was sexually and violently abused.

The devastating ordeal saw her step back from public life, and fans have rarely heard from her since.

Now, opening up in this way for the first time, a Hulu Original documentary about Duffy’s life is coming to Disney+.

Duffy’s Disney+ documentary in the works

It will delve into her childhood in Wales, her quick rise to fame and the trauma that saw her disappear from public view.

As well as having access to Duffy, the documentary will feature interviews with her family and friends, as well as her music industry peers.

Director Gill Callan said: “Duffy’s life has been shaped by success and fame, but equally by pain, defiance and an irrepressible sense of self.

“I’m drawn to the tension between vulnerability and confidence in her story and how a person can be deeply affected by their experiences, yet still find a powerful, expressive voice that is unmistakably hers.”

Sean Doyle, Vice President of Unscripted at Disney+ commented: “15 years ago, Duffy was one of the most famous singers in the world. Her voice was distinctly recognisable and powerful. Songs ‘Mercy’ and ‘Warwick Avenue’ from her debut album led to three Brit Awards, a Grammy and Duffy being at the peak of her career. And then she disappeared.

“This film will give Duffy the chance to tell her story in her own words.

“I am grateful to our collaborators at Rare TV for this unprecedented access, along with Stellify Media for handling this project with sensitivity and care. We set out in a search for impactful, female-led stories in collaboration with Northern Ireland Screen, and it’s a privilege that Duffy’s is the first we’re able to help tell.

“But above all, I’m especially in awe of Duffy – for her honesty and courage to share her story.”

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