A close crop of Rich ard Spencer looking down

My Wife, My Abuser

Channel 5 & Netflix

From the outside, the Spencers looked like a perfect family.


Richard was a successful Network Engineer at BT and his wife, Sheree, held a senior position with the Ministry of Justice. However, behind the closed doors of the six‑bedroom Yorkshire house they shared with their three daughters, Richard was trapped in a living nightmare. The series became a sensation when it shot to No. 1 on Netflix where it remained for two weeks.


Synopsis:

MY WIFE, MY ABUSER is a raw, harrowing story told courageously by Richard and the police officers who brought Sheree to justice—featuring the nanny‑cam videos and exclusive access to police interview tapes and body‑worn footage to create an account that is as shocking as it is vital. It is a story that explores the complexity of domestic abuse and coercive control and addresses the burning question: ‘Why didn’t Richard just leave?’



Viewing figures - 7.5 million

Awards —

Broadcast Awards 2025 — Best Documentary Programme (shortlist)

BFE Cut Above Awards 2025 — Best Edited Current Affairs (nominee: Shane Cooke)

Where to watch —

Richard Spencer walking outside in front of the ruins of a church
Richard Spencer walking outside in front of the ruins of a church
Recorded camera footage from inside the home showing a woman holding a knife
Recorded camera footage from inside the home showing a woman holding a knife
Richard Spencer looking contemplative staring out from a pier at sunset
Richard Spencer looking contemplative staring out from a pier at sunset

“...tells the harrowing story of the domestic abuse suffered by Richard Spencer.”

Radio Times


“A heartbreaking look at a survivor of domestic abuse who suffered at the hands of his wife for 20 years.”

LADbible


“A disturbing documentary about a man named Richard Spencer who endured decades of abuse.”

Decider


“Abusive wife’s 20‑year reign of terror exposed by secret nanny camera.”

The Independent