Lifetime is set to revive one of the most notorious true-crime narratives from the 1990s with the release of “I Am Mary Jo Buttafuoco.” This compelling film, which airs on Saturday, January 17 at 8 p.m. ET, presents the story through the eyes of Mary Jo herself, emphasizing her extraordinary resilience in the face of immense adversity.
The film delves into the chilling incident from May 1992, when Mary Jo Buttafuoco, a mother of two, was shot in the head by 17-year-old Amy Fisher, the teenage mistress of her husband, Joey Buttafuoco. This harrowing event not only made national headlines but also marked the beginning of Mary Jo’s long journey toward healing. “I Am Mary Jo Buttafuoco” transcends the sensationalized tabloid tale, focusing instead on themes of motherhood, survival, and the reclamation of one’s narrative after experiencing profound trauma.
For audiences eager to watch the premiere without a cable subscription, several streaming services offer access to Lifetime. Options include Philo, DIRECTV, and Sling. DIRECTV presents a generous opportunity for newcomers, featuring a five-day free trial and a promotional offer that reduces the first month’s payment to $49. Philo stands out as a budget-friendly alternative at $33 per month, including over 70 channels, while Sling offers a more flexible approach with various pricing tiers, starting with short-term passes priced at just $4.99.
In “I Am Mary Jo Buttafuoco,” Mary Jo recounts the shocking events that changed her life forever. After being confronted by Fisher at her doorstep under the pretense of an affair, Mary Jo experienced a traumatic moment when Fisher shot her in the face with a .25-caliber gun, resulting in permanent facial paralysis and hearing loss. The film explores not only the violent act but also Mary Jo’s arduous recovery process, which involved overcoming physical injuries as well as emotional struggles stemming from public scrutiny and the collapse of her marriage, which ended in divorce in 2003.
With a cast featuring Chloe Lanier, Dillon Casey, Maddy Hillis, and Mary Jo Buttafuoco herself, the film promises to present a raw and authentic portrayal of resilience and the journey of reclaiming one’s life post-trauma. As true-crime narratives continue to captivate audiences, this film serves as a poignant reminder of the strength found in overcoming life’s most harrowing challenges.