I Was Honey Boo Boo”: The Untold Story of Alana Thompson’s Rise to Fame | popgeeks.com
“I Was Honey Boo Boo” – The Story of Alana Thompson
“I Was Honey Boo Boo” is a Lifetime original movie, premiering May 17, 2025, that tells the real story of Alana Thompson, known to millions as Honey Boo Boo.
Alana first gained attention as a young child pageant contestant on Toddlers and Tiaras. Her outgoing personality, quick wit, and natural comfort in front of the camera made her an instant standout. Without needing much coaching, Alana’s candid interviews and colorful catchphrases went viral, catching the eye of audiences across the country. TLC soon offered her and her family their own reality series, Here Comes Honey Boo Boo.
The show was a ratings success, running for two seasons. However, a third season was canceled following a scandal involving Alana’s mother, Mama June. After separating from her longtime partner Sugar Bear, Mama June entered into a relationship with a man who had a criminal history involving Alana’s older sister, Anna. The fallout led TLC to cancel the show abruptly.
Mama June later returned to reality TV with Mama June: From Not to Hot, documenting her weight loss and cosmetic surgery journey. Meanwhile, Alana continued to stay in the public eye, competing on Dancing with the Stars: Juniors and The Masked Singer.
Behind the cameras, Alana faced serious hardships. Her sister Pumpkin discovered that Alana’s earnings from her TV appearances had been mismanaged. Mama June had spent much of Alana’s money on drugs, gambling, and her boyfriend Geno Doak, leaving Alana financially vulnerable.
Throughout her childhood, Alana endured a troubling level of exploitation—both from the media, which often sensationalized her image, and from those closest to her, who prioritized fame and personal gain over her well-being. “I Was Honey Boo Boo” does not shy away from exploring the pressures Alana faced growing up in the public eye, with very little protection or guidance.
In a special move, Alana Thompson herself narrates “I Was Honey Boo Boo”, offering her own voice and perspective on the events that shaped her life. Her narration adds emotional weight and authenticity, making the story even more personal for viewers.
Today, Alana is focused on building a future away from reality TV. She recently graduated high school and is pursuing a career in nursing, showing resilience and determination to carve out her own path on her own terms.
The movie features a cast of mostly unknown actors who capture the spirit, accents, and mannerisms of the real-life people they portray:
Cast:
Vale Cooper as Young Alana: Showing Alana’s early childhood during her pageant days and viral fame.
Isabelle Ayres as Alana Thompson: Portraying Alana during her teenage years, navigating fame and personal hardships.
Georgia Small as Pumpkin: Playing Lauryn “Pumpkin” Shannon, Alana’s older sister who steps in as her legal guardian and strongest support.
Neil Chinneck as Sugar Bear: Portraying Mike “Sugar Bear” Thompson, Alana’s biological father, with whom she shares a complicated relationship.
Chelsea Larkin as Mama June: Taking on the role of Mama June Shannon, Alana’s mother, whose choices had lasting consequences for the family.
Emily Nevitt as Jessica Shannon: Playing Jessica “Chubbs” Shannon, another of Alana’s sisters who supports her behind the scenes.
Richard Nicholas Emerson as Geno Doak: Portraying Mama June’s boyfriend, whose negative influence further destabilized the family.
“I Was Honey Boo Boo” premieres on Lifetime on May 17, 2025, offering viewers a raw and emotional look at one of reality TV’s most famous child stars, told through her own eyes.
