Bernadette Higgins

Bernadette Higgins is an award-winning documentary filmmaker and co-founder of Ladywell Films who specialises in crafting compelling true crime and investigative narratives that captivate global audiences. Her breakthrough film 'The Tinder Swindler' achieved 166 million viewing hours in 28 days, earned a BAFTA, and remains Netflix's most-watched documentary, whilst 'American Nightmare' and 'Fear City: New York vs the Mafia' further cement her reputation for powerful storytelling. Through her sessions, organisations and creative teams gain invaluable insight into narrative construction, audience engagement, and the art of transforming complex real-life stories into unforgettable viewing experiences that spark conversation and drive cultural impact.

When 'The Tinder Swindler' launched on Netflix in 2022, Bernadette Higgins co-created a cultural phenomenon that would amass 166 million viewing hours in just 28 days and become the platform's most-watched documentary of all time. The film, which she co-founded Ladywell Films to produce alongside Felicity Morris, earned a BAFTA award and five Emmy nominations, demonstrating her ability to transform complex real-life narratives into compelling visual storytelling that resonates across continents. Her subsequent work, 'American Nightmare', released in 2024, continued this trajectory of critical and commercial success, further establishing her as one of the most influential voices in contemporary documentary filmmaking.

Higgins' career has been built on meticulous research, ethical storytelling, and an unwavering commitment to giving voice to those whose stories might otherwise remain untold. Her filmography spans multiple platforms and genres, including 'Fear City: New York vs the Mafia' for Netflix and 'Pariah: The Lives and Deaths of Sonny Liston' for Showtime, each demonstrating her versatility in tackling challenging subject matter. As co-founder of Ladywell Films, she has created an environment where investigative rigour meets creative innovation, building a production company that prioritises authentic narratives and meaningful audience connection. Her approach combines journalistic integrity with cinematic craft, ensuring that every project balances entertainment value with deeper social commentary. Beyond her professional achievements, Higgins has become an advocate for endometriosis awareness, drawing on personal experience to support research and education around this often-overlooked condition.

Through her speaking engagements, Higgins offers organisations and creative professionals rare insight into the documentary-making process, from initial investigation through to global distribution. She explores how to identify stories with universal resonance, build trust with contributors, and navigate the ethical complexities inherent in true crime and investigative work. Audiences gain practical understanding of narrative architecture, the importance of pacing and revelation, and strategies for maintaining authenticity whilst crafting commercially viable content. Her sessions equip teams with frameworks for evaluating story potential, managing sensitive material, and creating work that generates both viewership and meaningful cultural conversation. For organisations seeking to understand modern media consumption, audience engagement, or the power of authentic storytelling, Higgins provides actionable perspectives grounded in proven, award-winning success.