The Unknown Number Netflix Cast has captivated audiences with one of the most shocking true crime documentaries of 2025. This gripping story follows Lauryn Licari, a high school student from Michigan, who became the victim of a relentless cyberbullying campaign that ultimately revealed a devastating family secret. The documentary features real people whose lives were forever changed, including Lauryn Licari, the primary target of harassment, and reveals connections to broader discussions about Netflix documentaries, the high school catfish cast, and the powerful impact of catfish documentary Netflix productions on American viewers.
The Unknown Number Netflix Cast: Real People, Real Story
The unknown number netflix cast consists entirely of real individuals who lived through this harrowing experience. At the center is Lauryn Licari, who was just 13 years old when she began receiving disturbing anonymous text messages in 2020. Her then-boyfriend Owen McKenny also appears prominently, sharing his perspective on how the harassment affected their relationship and high school experience.
The documentary also features Shawn Licari, Lauryn’s father, who provides emotional testimony about discovering his wife’s involvement in the cyberbullying campaign. Law enforcement officials including Isabella County Sheriff Mike Main and Bay City police officer Bradley Peter share their investigative process, while classmates like Khloe Wilson discuss the social fallout that occurred when suspicion initially fell on fellow students.
Lauryn Licari: The Heart of the Documentary
Lauryn Licari’s story is at the emotional core of this Netflix documentary. As a typical American teenager, she never expected that her own mother would orchestrate a 15-month campaign of harassment against her. The messages were particularly cruel, containing personal information that only someone close to Lauryn could know, and included threats suggesting she should harm herself.
Currently, Lauryn has reached the age of 18 and is embarking on a new phase in her life. Director Skye Borgman noted that Lauryn has shown remarkable resilience, describing her as “beginning to figure out that she can be the one in charge” of her relationship with her mother. The documentary shows her processing the complex emotions of loving someone who caused her such pain.
The Cut Lauryn Kendra: Behind the Investigation
The story that inspired this Netflix documentary was first detailed in an article by Lauren Smiley for New York Magazine’s The Cut, titled “Who Was Cyberbullying Kendra Licari’s Teen Daughter?”. This investigative piece revealed crucial details about how the case unfolded and provided context that helped viewers understand the full scope of Kendra’s deception.
The Cut’s reporting showed how Kendra had been manipulating evidence and misleading investigators, even presenting fake screenshots to implicate other students. The article highlighted the sophisticated nature of her digital deception and the psychological impact on everyone involved.
Netflix Documentaries and True Crime Impact
Unknown Number joins Netflix’s impressive catalog of true crime documentaries that have captivated American audiences. The streaming platform has become synonymous with high-quality documentary content, from “Sweet Bobby: My Catfish Nightmare” to countless other investigations into cyberbullying, catfishing, and digital deception.
This particular documentary stands out because it involves family betrayal at its core, making it more emotionally complex than typical catfish stories. The film’s director, Skye Borgman, is known for other shocking Netflix documentaries including “Girl in the Picture” and “Abducted in Plain Sight”.
High School Catfish Cast: Community Impact
The high school catfish cast extends beyond the immediate family to include the entire Beal City, Michigan community. Classmates, teachers, school administrators, and local law enforcement all became part of this story as the investigation unfolded.
The documentary shows how suspicion initially fell on fellow students, creating divisions and mistrust within the small school community. Students like Khloe Wilson faced accusations and social ostracism before the truth was revealed, highlighting the collateral damage of Kendra’s actions.
Table: Key Cast Members and Their Roles
| Cast Member | Role | Impact on Story |
| Lauryn Licari | Primary victim | Central figure, shows resilience |
| Kendra Licari | Perpetrator/mother | Shocking revelation as culprit |
| Owen McKenny | Victim/boyfriend | Shows relationship damage |
| Shawn Licari | Father | Provides family perspective |
| Sheriff Mike Main | Investigator | Leads law enforcement response |
| Khloe Wilson | Wrongly accused student | Shows community impact |
Catfish Documentary Netflix: A New Standard
This catfish documentary Netflix production sets a new standard for true crime storytelling by focusing on the psychological complexity of family relationships rather than just the crime itself. The film examines how cyberbullying affects not just victims but entire communities, and how digital deception can tear families apart.
The documentary’s structure deliberately conceals Kendra’s identity until midway through the film, allowing viewers to experience the same shock and disbelief that Lauryn felt when learning the truth. This narrative approach makes it one of the most impactful Netflix catfish stories to date.
High School Catfish Netflix Documentary Cast: Where Are They Now?
The high school catfish netflix documentary cast members have all moved forward with their lives in different ways. Lauryn Licari is now 18 and focusing on her future, while maintaining a cautious relationship with her mother. Owen McKenny and Lauryn are no longer in contact, their relationship having ended during the investigation.
Kendra Licari was freed from prison in August 2024 and is now on parole until February 2026. According to the conditions of her release, she is not allowed to have contact with Lauryn. Shawn Licari has divorced Kendra and has full custody of Lauryn, with the documentary showcasing the strengthened bond between him and his daughter.
FAQs
Who is in the Unknown Number Netflix cast?
The cast includes Lauryn Licari (the primary victim), her mother Kendra Licari (the perpetrator), Owen McKenny (Lauryn’s boyfriend), Shawn Licari (Lauryn’s father), and various law enforcement officials and classmates.
What happened to Lauryn Licari after the documentary?
At the age of 18, Lauryn is now dedicated to planning her future. She has not seen her mother since Kendra’s release from prison and is working on processing the trauma while maintaining a close relationship with her father.
Is the Netflix catfish story based on a true story?
Yes, Unknown Number: The High School Catfish is entirely based on real events that occurred in Beal City, Michigan, starting in 2020.
Where can I read more about this case?
The story was originally detailed in an investigative article by Lauren Smiley for The Cut, which provided the foundation for the Netflix documentary.
What makes this different from other Netflix documentaries about catfishing?
This case is unique because it involves a mother catfishing her own daughter, making it more psychologically complex than typical online deception stories.
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