Tuohy Family To Remove Public References Claiming They “Adopted” Michael Oher

As part of the ongoing legal battle between Michael Oher and the Tuohy family, the Tuohys have told a judge in Tennessee that they will be removing any reference to “adopting” Oher from their public materials. An attorney for the family said that the contentious claim will be removed from the family’s website and their public speaking materials. Earlier this year, it was revealed that the Tuohys had never legally adopted Oher. Instead, they had placed Oher into a conservatorship. Furthermore, they allegedly went as far as to tell Oher that it was essentially the same thing as an adoption.

It’s the first major update in the trial since the Tuohys claimed that Oher, contrary to his claims, had been paid for The Blind Side. Earlier this month, Attorneys for the Tuohy family claim that Michael Oher made $138K in profits from The Blind Side between June 2007 and April 2023. According to documents, these payments ranged from $117 to $31,500. “By agreement between the family members including Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy, their children SJ and Collins as well as Michael Oher. The book and movie proceeds were to be split five ways. These funds represent funds paid to Mr. Tuohy and the portion paid over to Mr. Oher,” the family’s attorneys argued. Oher’s team has since disputed this. This week, they stated that at least $2.5M is missing from the financial report submitted by the Tuohys.

Read More: Michael Oher Referenced Conservatorship In 2011 Memoir

The Blind Side Author Blames Oher’s NFL Career For Current Lawsuit

However, Oher’s ongoing lawsuit has been blamed on CTE by the original author of The Blind Side book. Michael Lewis, the man who first brought Oher’s story to the national spotlight, made some bold claims about why Oher had taken the Tuohys to court. “What we’re watching is a change of behaviour. This is what happens to football players who get hit in the head. They run into problems with violence and aggression,” Lewis told Samanth Subramanian of The Guardian. Lewis also made some wild claims about Oher’s ability. “He insisted that Oher wouldn’t have made it to the NFL without the Tuohys’ support. And that Oher did not, in fact, know much about playing football when the Tuohys first met him. On a football field, “he was not useful”, Lewis said,” Subrmanian’s article also noted.

However, Lewis’ claims of CTE and subpar talent are nothing more than a smokescreen. Lewis is a close friend of Sean Tuohy. The two grew up together and had a relationship before Lewis chronicled Oher’s journey in the blindside. The claims of CTE try to distract from the horrific allegations tying a white family to manipulating a Black teenager. Meanwhile, the talent allegations are meaningless. This is given the facts of Oher’s story as well as the fact that Lewis felt the story notable enough to dedicate most of a book to it.

Read More: Michael Oher Claims “The Blind Side” Falsely Portrayed Him As Having Intellectual Disabilities

[via]

The post Tuohy Family To Remove Public References Claiming They “Adopted” Michael Oher appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Michael Oher Paid $138K For “The Blind Side” According To Tuohy Family

Attorneys for the Tuohy family claim that Michael Oher made $138K in profits from The Blind Side between June 2007 and April 2023. According to documents, these payments ranged from $117 to $31,500. “By agreement between the family members including Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy, their children SJ and Collins as well as Michael Oher. The book and movie proceeds were to be split five ways. These funds represent funds paid to Mr. Tuohy and the portion paid over to Mr. Oher,” the family’s attorneys argued this week.

The Tuohy’s conservatorship of Oher being ended earlier this year. However, legal battle over compensation claimed by Oher is ongoing. Oher, who played nearly a decade in the NFL, claims he saw no money from the profits of his life story. This was namely from the Oscar-winning film, The Blind Side. However, the Tuohys have argued that the conservatorship was never used for financial gain. Oher has until November 28 to raise objections to accounting documents filed this week.

Read More: Michael Oher Lawsuit & The Blind Side Controversy, Explained

The Blind Side Author Blames Lawsuit On CTE

It’s been a few months since there was any major news in the case. However, Michael Lewis, the man who first brought Oher’s story to the national spotlight, made some bold claims about why Oher had taken the Tuohys to court. “What we’re watching is a change of behaviour. This is what happens to football players who get hit in the head. They run into problems with violence and aggression,” Lewis told Samanth Subramanian of The Guardian. Lewis also made some wild claims about Oher’s ability. “He insisted that Oher wouldn’t have made it to the NFL without the Tuohys’ support, and that Oher did not, in fact, know much about playing football when the Tuohys first met him. On a football field, “he was not useful”, Lewis said,” Subrmanian’s article also noted.

However, Lewis’ claims of CTE and subpar talent are nothing more than a smokescreen. Lewis is a close friend of Sean Tuohy. The two grew up together and had a relationship before Lewis chronicled Oher’s journey in the blindside. The claims of CTE try to distract from the horrific allegations tying a white family to manipulating a Black teenager. Meanwhile, the talent allegations are meaningless. This is given the facts of Oher’s story as well as the fact that Lewis felt the story notable enough to dedicate most of a book to it.

Read More: Michael Oher Claims “The Blind Side” Falsely Portrayed Him As Having Intellectual Disabilities

[via]

The post Michael Oher Paid $138K For “The Blind Side” According To Tuohy Family appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Michael Oher Conservatorship Dispute Due To Violence Of NFL, Claims “Blind Side” Author

Michael Lewis, the author of The Blind Side, has come out with a bizarre claim about why Michael Oher is challenging the Tuohy family after nearly 20 years. “What we’re watching is a change of behaviour. This is what happens to football players who get hit in the head: they run into problems with violence and aggression,” Lewis told Samanth Subramanian of The Guardian. Lewis also made some wild claims about Oher’s ability. “He insisted that Oher wouldn’t have made it to the NFL without the Tuohys’ support, and that Oher did not, in fact, know much about playing football when the Tuohys first met him. On a football field, “he was not useful”, Lewis said,” Subrmanian’s article also noted.

However, Lewis’ claims of CTE and subpar talent are nothing more than a smokescreen. Lewis is a close friend of Sean Tuohy. The two grew up together and had a relationship before Lewis chronicled Oher’s journey in the blindside. The claims of CTE try to distract from the horrific allegations tying a white family to manipulating a Black teenager. Meanwhile, the talent allegations are meaningless, given the fact Oher’s entire story as well as the fact that Lewis felt the story notable enough to dedicate most of a book to it.

Read More: Michael Oher Claims “The Blind Side” Falsely Portrayed Him As Having Intellectual Disabilities

Oher Sees Conservatorship Ended

However, last week, Oher finally saw some justice. A judge in Shelby County, Tennessee has ended the conservatorship agreement between Michael Oher and the Tuohy family. Judge Kathleen Gomes formally ended the conservatorship earlier this week in probate court. Furthermore, Gomes refused to dismiss the case that Oher had brought against the family. “I cannot believe it got done,” Gomes said of the conservatorship. Additionally, she added that she had never seen such an agreement in her 43-year legal career. Conservatorships are usually enacted in cases of disability or similar circumstances.

The Tuohys watched the hearing virtually but did not comment. The family has objected to Oher’s claims that they took financial advantage of him. Oher has claimed that the Tuohys have hidden the full extent of the earnings they have reaped from the use of his name, image, and likeness. The Tuohys operate two separate non-profits that use Oher’s name.

Read More: Michael Oher Referenced Conservatorship In 2011 Memoir

[via]

The post Michael Oher Conservatorship Dispute Due To Violence Of NFL, Claims “Blind Side” Author appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Michael Oher Net Worth 2023: What Is The Former NFL Star Worth?

Memphis, Tennessee, 1986, echoed with the cries of a newborn, Michael Oher, little knowing that this child was set to etch an indelible mark in the annals of football and society. Growing up, Michael grappled with life’s adversities, navigating through challenges, foster homes, and the often unforgiving streets of Memphis. Yet, amid chaos, a glimmer of hope appeared in the form of the Tuohy family, who welcomed him with open arms and hearts. This newfound stability and support provided the backdrop against which Michael discovered his prodigious talent in football. With determination in his heart and dreams in his eyes, Michael embarked on a journey in the world of sports. By the onset of 2023, this journey bore the fruit of recognition, resilience, and a substantial net worth of $12 million, as cataloged by ClutchPoints.

Career Highlights & Accolades

michael oher
CHARLOTTE, NC – JANUARY 24: Michael Oher #73 of the Carolina Panthers watches play against the Arizona Cardinals. During the NFC Championship Game at Bank Of America Stadium on January 24, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)

The football field became Michael Oher’s sanctuary and stage. He earned his stripes as an offensive lineman and caught the attention of college scouts. He soon donned the jersey for the University of Mississippi. His college career was marked with accolades, setting the stage for his transition to the NFL. Drafted by the Baltimore Ravens, Michael showcased exemplary skill and grit, solidifying his place as one of the key players in the league. Championships followed, with the crowning glory being his Super Bowl XLVII ring, affirming his place amongst football’s elite.

Personal Life & Highlights

michael oher
OXFORD, MS – NOVEMBER 28: Michael Oher #74 of the Ole Miss Rebels stands with his family. During senior ceremonies prior to a game against the Mississippi State Bulldogs. At Vaught-Hemingway Stadium on November 28, 2008 in Oxford, Mississippi. (Photo by Matthew Sharpe/Getty Images)

Michael Oher’s life, replete with its highs and lows, caught the world’s attention through Hollywood’s lens. The film The Blind Side depicted his life, struggles, and the unwavering support of the Tuohy family, shedding light on the man behind the jersey. Beyond the cinematic portrayal, Michael’s life has been about gratitude and giving back. His bond with the Tuohys, particularly Leigh Anne, symbolizes love transcending biological ties. In interviews and appearances, Michael often speaks of the importance of belief, the power of a helping hand, and the transformative journey from the streets of Memphis to the heart of America.

Business Ventures & Philanthropy

michael oher
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – AUGUST 09: Michael Oher visits SiriusXM at SiriusXM Studios on August 09, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images)

Beyond the tackles and touchdowns, Michael Oher’s vision extends to realms beyond football. He penned his story as an autobiography, providing a firsthand account of his life’s journey. Venturing into public speaking, Michael’s voice resonates with messages of hope and triumph over adversity. Understanding life’s hardships firsthand, his heart leans towards philanthropy. Further, Michael’s charitable endeavors focus on supporting underprivileged children. It ensures that the narrative of hope and change inspires future generations.

The post Michael Oher Net Worth 2023: What Is The Former NFL Star Worth? appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Michael Oher Net Worth 2023: What Is The Former NFL Star Worth?

Memphis, Tennessee, 1986, echoed with the cries of a newborn, Michael Oher, little knowing that this child was set to etch an indelible mark in the annals of football and society. Growing up, Michael grappled with life’s adversities, navigating through challenges, foster homes, and the often unforgiving streets of Memphis. Yet, amid chaos, a glimmer of hope appeared in the form of the Tuohy family, who welcomed him with open arms and hearts. This newfound stability and support provided the backdrop against which Michael discovered his prodigious talent in football. With determination in his heart and dreams in his eyes, Michael embarked on a journey in the world of sports. By the onset of 2023, this journey bore the fruit of recognition, resilience, and a substantial net worth of $12 million, as cataloged by ClutchPoints.

Career Highlights & Accolades

michael oher
CHARLOTTE, NC – JANUARY 24: Michael Oher #73 of the Carolina Panthers watches play against the Arizona Cardinals. During the NFC Championship Game at Bank Of America Stadium on January 24, 2016 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)

The football field became Michael Oher’s sanctuary and stage. He earned his stripes as an offensive lineman and caught the attention of college scouts. He soon donned the jersey for the University of Mississippi. His college career was marked with accolades, setting the stage for his transition to the NFL. Drafted by the Baltimore Ravens, Michael showcased exemplary skill and grit, solidifying his place as one of the key players in the league. Championships followed, with the crowning glory being his Super Bowl XLVII ring, affirming his place amongst football’s elite.

Personal Life & Highlights

michael oher
OXFORD, MS – NOVEMBER 28: Michael Oher #74 of the Ole Miss Rebels stands with his family. During senior ceremonies prior to a game against the Mississippi State Bulldogs. At Vaught-Hemingway Stadium on November 28, 2008 in Oxford, Mississippi. (Photo by Matthew Sharpe/Getty Images)

Michael Oher’s life, replete with its highs and lows, caught the world’s attention through Hollywood’s lens. The film The Blind Side depicted his life, struggles, and the unwavering support of the Tuohy family, shedding light on the man behind the jersey. Beyond the cinematic portrayal, Michael’s life has been about gratitude and giving back. His bond with the Tuohys, particularly Leigh Anne, symbolizes love transcending biological ties. In interviews and appearances, Michael often speaks of the importance of belief, the power of a helping hand, and the transformative journey from the streets of Memphis to the heart of America.

Business Ventures & Philanthropy

michael oher
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – AUGUST 09: Michael Oher visits SiriusXM at SiriusXM Studios on August 09, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images)

Beyond the tackles and touchdowns, Michael Oher’s vision extends to realms beyond football. He penned his story as an autobiography, providing a firsthand account of his life’s journey. Venturing into public speaking, Michael’s voice resonates with messages of hope and triumph over adversity. Understanding life’s hardships firsthand, his heart leans towards philanthropy. Further, Michael’s charitable endeavors focus on supporting underprivileged children. It ensures that the narrative of hope and change inspires future generations.

The post Michael Oher Net Worth 2023: What Is The Former NFL Star Worth? appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Sandra Bullock’s 7 Best Movies

Sandra Bullock is a household name as far as legendary actresses go. The veteran star has appeared in countless films, proudly donning the movie star persona. Furthermore, her private personal life has maintained the allure surrounding her for several decades. Bullock is also an Oscar winner, taking home the prized trophy for her work in The Blind Side. The gripping movie told the story of NFL star Michael Oher and the Tuohys, who adopted him. 

The central figure and reason for the 2009 drama, Oher, recently alleged that the Tuohys never actually adopted him. In addition, he claimed that the Tuohys placed him under a conservatorship and profited off him to the tune of millions. Bullock has also expressed her disappointment with the horrid news. Regardless, she is a decorated actress with many incredible performances under her belt. Here, we revisit her long-standing, celebrated career beyond the headlines.

7. Miss Congeniality

The 2000 classic film follows Gracie Hart, who is a tomboyish FBI agent. She receives a threat from an anonymous bomber who plans to rig the Miss United States beauty pageant. To verify and avoid any future bombings, Gracie is sent to infiltrate the pageant despite her lack of femininity and refinement. Bullock brought the character of Gracie Hart to life with her impeccable comedic timing and humor. Further, the movie created the perfect blend of action and comedy. The film is a great example of her ability to switch between tough and tender moments seamlessly. Although the film received mixed to negative reviews from critics, it remains a fan favorite.

6. The Blind Side

The Blind Side is a stirring drama based on a true story. Here, Sandra Bullock is cast as Leigh Anne Tuohy, a warm and compassionate woman. She opens her home and heart to Michael, a Black teenager with remarkable football potential. This new addition to the household changes his and his family’s lives forever. Leigh Anne and her husband help Michael realize his potential as a student and a football player. Bullock’s portrayal in this now-controversial film earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress.

5. Bird Box

The 2018 sci-fi thriller focuses on an apocalyptic world where supernatural entities can induce madness upon whoever lays eyes upon them. Bullock portrays Malorie Hayes, a woman navigating this world while blindfolded to avoid these entities. Along the way, Malorie makes and breaks attachments she makes with people she meets as they begin to succumb to the lure of the entities. Bullock’s performance anchors the film, infusing it with a raw intensity that also drives the suspenseful storyline forward.

4. Demolition Man

Demolition Man was released in 1993, starring Sylvester Stallone, Sandra Bullock, and Wesley Snipes. The film is set in a dystopian future where society has drastically changed. This is due to strict law enforcement and also a lack of violent crime. Phoenix, a convicted killer, and Sergeant John Spartan, a tough cop set on apprehending Phoenix, are free from their cryogenic rehabilitation. As Phoenix wreaks havoc on the peaceful city, Spartan tries to bring him to justice. The sci-fi action film offers an entertaining blend of futuristic imaginings, dynamic action sequences, and playful humor.

3. Gravity

Gravity has been labeled a cinematic masterpiece and received high praise from critics and fans alike. Cast as Dr. Ryan Stone, Bullock acts opposite George Clooney as Matt Kowalski in the sci-fi thriller. While on a mission in outer space, the two are hit by high-speed space debris and become stranded. To survive at all costs, she carries the weight of isolation and fear on her shoulders. Bullock’s performance in Gravity earned her overwhelming critical acclaim. Moreover, the film allowed her to showcase her continuous ability to command attention in emotionally charged roles.

2. While You Were Sleeping

Just a year after catching the eye of the world in Speed, Sandra Bullock took on the character of Lucy Eleanor Moderatz. The heartwarming rom-com centers on Lucy, a lonely fare token collector. While working, she saves a man from an oncoming train and is then mistaken to be his fiancé by his family. Bullock gives another endearing performance in the film as her character navigates several intricate emotions, such as self-discovery, love, and even deceit. The film remains a timeless classic because of its charm and also due to Bullock’s amazing character portrayal.  

1. Speed

Released in 1994, Speed was Sandra Bullock’s breakthrough into fame. She took on the role of Annie Porter, an unknowing bus passenger who soon becomes instrumental to the survival of many. The story follows Annie, a quick-witted bus passenger who is forced to help navigate a bomb-rigged bus through the bus streets of Los Angeles. Annie teams up with a police officer, Jack, played by Keanu Reeves, to free the passengers on the bus and safely defuse the bomb. Her portrayal in the high-octane action thriller was that of a determined and resourceful character. Significantly enough, Sandra Bullock added a great layer of authenticity to the film.

[via]

The post Sandra Bullock’s 7 Best Movies appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Michael Oher Claims “The Blind Side” Falsely Portrayed Him As Having Intellectual Disabilities

More details continue to emerge about the horrifying situation surrounding Michael Oher. Oher, who played in the NFL was 2009 to 2016, was made famous by his life story. His inspiring story served as the basis for the Oscar-winning film, The Blind Side. Oher, who is Black, was adopted by the white Tuohy family after they met him at an elite Memphis private school attended by their biological children.

However, Oher has claimed this week that he was never legally adopted by the Tuohy family. Instead, he claims he was tricked into entering into a conservatorship. That arrangement gave the Tuohys full financial control over his life and life story. Oher, 37, is seeking an end to the conservatorship as well as financial restitution. The Tuohy family has not denied the arrangement, but calls Oher’s lawsuit “insulting”. Furthermore, the family has alleged that Oher demanded $15 million from them before filing the lawsuit. As more details emerged and the lawsuit is further scrutinized, we are starting to get a better picture of what alerted Oher to the truth.

Read More: The Blind Side controversy and Michael Oher lawsuit explained

Oher Portrayed As Having Intellectual Disabilities

The claims that Oher was wrongfully portrayed as having an intellectual disability stems from his lawyer, J. Gerard Stranch IV. According to Stranch IV, “Oher was depicted [in The Blind Side] as having intellectual disabilities, which isn’t the case in real life. In fact, Oher was academically gifted, which is how he managed to get into the Memphis private school where we would eventually meet the Tuohy children and their parents.”

It’s unclear whether that portrayal extended to other aspects of Oher’s life. However, it likely helped the Tuohys maintain their conservatorship over Oher, which remains in place despite him being 37. It’s just yet another twist to this ever-evolving story that is likely to get very messy if it proceeds through the court system. The Tuohys have stated that they are willing to end their conservatorship of Tuohy but contest his other claims against them.

Read More: Michael Oher claimed conservatorship was pitched as “pretty much an adoption” in 2011 memoir

[via]

The post Michael Oher Claims “The Blind Side” Falsely Portrayed Him As Having Intellectual Disabilities appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Sandra Bullock “Heartbroken” By “The Blind Side” Controversy

More details continue to emerge about the horrifying situation surrounding Michael Oher. Oher, who played in the NFL was 2009 to 2016, was made famous by his life story. His inspiring story served as the basis for the Oscar-winning film, The Blind Side. Oher, who is Black, was adopted by the white Tuohy family after they met him at an elite Memphis private school attended by their biological children.

However, Oher has claimed this week that he was never legally adopted by the Tuohy family. Instead, he claims he was tricked into entering into a conservatorship. That arrangement gave the Tuohys full financial control over his life and life story. Oher, 37, is seeking an end to the conservatorship as well as financial restitution. The Tuohy family has not denied the arrangement, but calls Oher’s lawsuit “insulting”. Furthermore, the family has alleged that Oher demanded $15 million from them before filing the lawsuit. Now, Sandra Bullock, who played Leigh Anne Tuohy in the film, has broken her silence on the situation.

Read More: Sandra Bullock faces calls to relinquish her Oscar for The Blind Side

Sandra Bullock “Upset” And “Heartbroken”

Sandra Bullock
LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 31: Sandra Bullock attends the UK Special Screening of “The Lost City” at Cineworld Leicester Square on March 31, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)

“There was so much hard work put into the film that they all though was the truth and now that has been questioned. It just upsets Sandra to no end that a time in her life was so special, is now shadowed with a completely different perspective,” a source told The Daily Mail. “[She] “hates that such a wonderful story, a spectacular movie, and a spectacular time in her life now has been tainted,” they continued.

Bullock is currently in mourning after losing her long-time partner Bryan Randall to a very private battle with ALS. “Now people won’t watch it. And if they do, they will have a completely different reaction to its original intention,” the source added. However, Bullock is reportedly “putting up a strong face and a strong front” amid the fallout. “It has been a rough patch for her emotionally with the loss of Bryan, and now she is heartbroken in a different way with all the fallout from the Michael Oher news,” the source concluded.

Read More: The Blind Side star tells people to leave Sandra Bullock alone

[via]

The post Sandra Bullock “Heartbroken” By “The Blind Side” Controversy appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Michael Oher Referenced Conservatorship In 2011 Memoir

More details continue to emerge about the horrifying situation surrounding Michael Oher. Oher, who played in the NFL was 2009 to 2016, was made famous by his life story. His inspiring story served as the basis for the Oscar-winning film, The Blind Side. Oher, who is Black, was adopted by the white Tuohy family after they met him at an elite Memphis private school attended by their biological children.

However, Oher has claimed this week that he was never legally adopted by the Tuohy family. Instead, he claims he was tricked into entering into a conservatorship. That arrangement gave the Tuohys full financial control over his life and life story. Oher, 37, is seeking an end to the conservatorship as well as financial restitution. The Tuohy family has not denied the arrangement, but calls Oher’s lawsuit “insulting”. Furthermore, the family has alleged that Oher demanded $15 million from them before filing the lawsuit.

Read More: The Blind Side controversy explained

Oher Referenced Conservatorship In Memoir

Michael Oher
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – AUGUST 09: Michael Oher visits SiriusXM at SiriusXM Studios on August 09, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images)

However, a major point of contention about Oher’s claims that he only discovered the truth in February of 2023 is a passage from his 2011 memoir. In I Beat The Odds: From Homelessness, to The Blind Side, and Beyond, Oher directly referenced the conservatorship. “Sean and Leigh Anne would be named as my ‘legal conservators. They explained to me that it means pretty much the exact same thing as ‘adoptive parents,’ but that the laws were just written in a way that took my age into account. Honestly, I didn’t care what it was called. I was just happy that no one could argue that we weren’t legally what we already knew was real: We were a family.”

This is being used as some sort of gotcha that Oher was fully aware of the situation he was in. However, let’s break this text down. “Sean and Leigh Anne would be named as my ‘legal conservators. They explained to me that it means pretty much the exact same thing as ‘adoptive parents,’ but that the laws were just written in a way that took my age into account.” Oher’s claim is that he was tricked into signing a conservatorship. This is 13-year-old proof of that. There are huge legal differences between adoption and legal conservatorship. Telling an 18-year-old with little legal knowledge that they are “pretty much the exact same thing” is indeed tricking them into signing a document that benefits you and not them. This is a developing story.

Read More: “The Blind Side” Star Defends Sandra Bullock, Tells Fans To Leave Her Alone Amid Controversy

[via]

The post Michael Oher Referenced Conservatorship In 2011 Memoir appeared first on HotNewHipHop.

Michael Oher Lawsuit & “The Blind Side” Controversy, Explained

Fourteen years after the release of The Blind Side and former NFL offensive tackle Michael Oher shed light on the reality surrounding his story. Oher emerged with a bombshell lawsuit this week, accusing the Tuohy family of exploitation. In a lawsuit filed to a Tennessee court, Oher claims that the Tuohy family never actually adopted him and only took him in for their own personal benefit. The lawsuit aims to end the conservatorship agreement that Oher signed. He also alleged that he didn’t earn a penny from royalties. 

Although The Blind Side earned Sandra Bullock an Oscar nomination, the film didn’t go without its fair share of controversy. Many accused the film of portraying the “white savior” narrative, suggesting Oher wouldn’t have been able to succeed had it not been for the generosity of the Tuohy family. Oher’s previously aired out his issues with his portrayal in the film. Now, the depiction is now at the center of his new lawsuit. Below, we’ve broken down Michael Oher’s claims against the Truoy family, their response, and the controversy surrounding The Blind Side

Read More: “The Blind Side” Star Defends Sandra Bullock, Tells Fans To Leave Her Alone Amid Controversy

Michael Oher: From Homelessness To The NFL

Michael Oher the blind side
NEW ORLEANS, LA – FEBRUARY 03: Michael Oher #74 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates after the Ravens won 34-31 against the San Francisco 49ers during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

The Blind Side portrays Michael Oher as a homeless, disadvantaged youth who the Tuohy family took into their home. The film documented his phenomenal rise to entering the NFL, which undoubtedly won the hearts and minds of viewers. His inspiring story followed his ascent to all-American left tackle and the hefty sum he received during his NFL career. 

Oher was the first-round pick for the Baltimore Ravens, later helping the team with the Super Bowl in 2013. The following year, he signed a $20 million multi-year contract with the Tennessee Titans. He, unfortunately, suffered an injury that resulted in the Titans letting him go. However, he began playing for the Carolina Panthers until 2017. Throughout his career, it’s estimated that he earned upwards of $34 million. 

The White Savior Controversy

The 2009 film gained significant esteem and success at the box office to the tune of $300 million. Not to mention, it received a nomination for Best Picture at the Academy Awards while Sandra Bullock, who played Leigh Anne Tuohy, won the Oscar for Best Actress. However, the film faced much criticism over the years for perpetuating the white savior trope. 

Even though Oher’s praised the film for its portrayal of the Truoy family, he also took issue with the depiction of his character. In his memoir, I Beat the Odds: From Homelessness To The Blind Side And Beyond, he said that it misrepresented his character, specifically diminishing his own agency and resilience. He explained that The Blind Side showed him as a “dumb” kid rather than a child “who had never had consistent academic instruction.” Additionally, the film misrepresented him as a young child with no knowledge of football until the Tuohy’s took him in.

“People look at me, and they take things away from me because of a movie,” Oher told ESPN in 2015. “They don’t really see the skills and the kind of player I am. That’s why I get downgraded so much, because of something off the field … That’s why I don’t like that movie.’’

Read More: Best Movies Based On Iconic Athletes

Michael Oher’s Lawsuit: Unraveling The Truth

Michael Oher the blind side
BALTIMORE, MD – DECEMBER 11: Michael Oher #74 of the Baltimore Ravens blocks Fili Moala #95 of the Indianapolis Colts at M&T Bank Stadium on December 11, 2011 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)

Earlier this week, Michael Oher filed a lawsuit against the Tuohy family in Tennessee Shelby County, per ESPN. In the suit, he alleges that the family exploited his story and used his likeness for their own financial gain. Oher believes the family made millions from the book and movie based on his life. Meanwhile, he claims he’s yet to see a single penny from royalties. 

Oher claims that Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy deceived him into signing a conservatorship rather than becoming his actual adoptive parents. Sean Tuohy explained that they wanted to take Oher in when he was 18 but they had to enter a conservatorship contract to officially make him part of their family. Oher said that he only found out recently that he wasn’t actually adopted officially, accusing the family of lying to him over the years. Now, he’s asking for a full accounting of the money earned from his name and likeness. The petition claims the Tuohy’s and their kids, who are now adults, earned $225,000 each from the film, along with 2.5% of the movie’s defined net proceeds.

“Michael Oher discovered this lie to his chagrin and embarrassment in February of 2023, when he learned that the Conservatorship to which he consented on the basis that doing so would make him a member of the Tuohy family, in fact, provided him no familial relationship with the Tuohys,” the petition to end the conservatorship stated.

The Conservatorship Controversy

The conservatorship that Oher unknowingly entered into plays a central role in the lawsuit. Conservatorships are legal arrangements that grant decision-making powers to others, usually for individuals with diminished capacity due to health concerns. Oher alleges that the family tricked him into a conservatorship after turning 18, which allowed the Tuohy family to control his financial affairs and exploit his name and story for their own gain.

Read More: Sandra Bullock Faces Calls From Fans To Forfeit Her Oscar Amid “The Blind Side” Controversy

The Tuohy Family’s Response

Michael Oher the blind side
WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA – MARCH 07: (L-R) Leigh Anne Tuohy, Sean Tuohy and Collins Tuohy, who the movie “The Blind Side” is based on, arrive at the 2010 Vanity Fair Oscar Party hosted by Graydon Carter held at Sunset Tower on March 7, 2010 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by George Pimentel/WireImage)

In response to the lawsuit, the Tuohy family denied that they solely took Oher into their family for financial gain. Speaking to the Daily Memphian, Sean Tuohy said the family was “devastated” by the claims. “It’s upsetting to think we would make money off any of our children. But we’re going to love Michael at 37 just like we loved him at 16,” Sean said. 

However, Sean denied that he or the family made any money from The Blind Side. We didn’t make any money off the movie,” he said. “We were never offered money; we never asked for money.” He added that the author of the book The Blind Side, Michael Lewis, provided the family including Oher, half of his share. He said that amounted to $14,000 each. 

Furthermore, Sean also explained that he only entered the conservatorship for Oher’s benefit. He explained that it allowed them to help him gain medical benefits and secured Oher’s eligibility for college football. “It’s hard because you have to defend yourself, but whatever he wants, we’ll do. We’re not in this for anything other than whatever he wants,” Tuohy continued. “If he’d have said, ‘I don’t want to be part of the family anymore,’ we’d have been very upset, but we absolutely would have done it.”

A Shakedown?

In an official response to the lawsuit, Marty Singer, the legal representative of the Tuohy family, told TMZ that Oher’s previously approached them with similar legal threats in the past. The 14-page filing alleges that Oher’s previously demanded $15 million from the Tuohy and threatened to “plant a negative story about them in the press” if they didn’t cough up the money. 

“[The conservatorship] was established to assist with Mr. Oher’s needs, ranging from getting him health insurance and obtaining a driver’s license to helping with college admissions,” Singer said. “Should Mr. Oher wish to terminate the conservatorship, either now or at anytime in the future, the Tuohys will never oppose it in any way.”

Final Thoughts 

At this point, it’s too early to determine what may happen next, especially after Singer’s recent petition. The Tuohy’s said that they are willing to terminate the conservatorship at any point, which could seemingly resolve one aspect of the lawsuit. However, when it comes to the accounting and the numbers attached to the success of The Blind Side, it might become an upward battle for both parties.

The post Michael Oher Lawsuit & “The Blind Side” Controversy, Explained appeared first on HotNewHipHop.