Turpin Children to Give First Joint Interview to Diane Sawyer

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  Published in House and Home on Tuesday, February 3rd 2026 at 15:53 GMT by Variety
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Los Angeles, CA - February 3rd, 2026 - In a landmark television event poised to captivate the nation, ABC News will broadcast a deeply personal and revealing interview with the thirteen Turpin children on February 17th, 2026. The interview, conducted by veteran journalist Diane Sawyer, marks the first time the siblings have collectively shared their experiences since their dramatic rescue from years of horrific abuse in 2018.

The Turpin family case shocked the world eight years ago when authorities discovered the children held captive and subjected to unimaginable cruelty within their Perris, California home. David and Louise Turpin were found to have systematically abused their children - denying them food, sleep, medical care, and education. The children were routinely beaten, shackled, and isolated, living a life of squalor while their parents maintained a facade of normalcy to the outside world.

The subsequent investigation revealed a horrifying pattern of control and manipulation. The Turpin children, ranging in age from 2 to 29 at the time of their rescue, were largely deprived of a childhood, denied basic necessities, and forced to endure relentless emotional and physical torment. One daughter escaped and bravely alerted authorities, triggering the investigation that ultimately freed her siblings.

David Turpin was sentenced to life in prison plus hundreds of years, effectively ensuring he will never be released. Louise Turpin received a 60-year sentence. While justice has been served in the courtroom, the long and arduous journey of healing for the children has continued largely out of the public eye.

"Diane Sawyer Presents: The Turpin Children" promises to offer an unprecedented look into the lives of these remarkable survivors as they navigate the complexities of adulthood, trauma recovery, and building new lives. Sawyer, renowned for her empathetic and insightful interviewing style, is expected to approach the subject matter with the sensitivity and respect it deserves. Sources close to the production team indicate that the interview will not shy away from the difficult details of the abuse, but will focus primarily on the children's resilience, their progress in therapy, and their aspirations for the future.

The interview is expected to delve into the challenges of rebuilding trust, forging healthy relationships, and overcoming the lasting emotional scars of their childhood. Experts in trauma recovery suggest that the Turpin children face unique hurdles, including developmental delays, difficulty with social interaction, and a heightened risk of mental health issues. The fact that they experienced such prolonged and severe trauma as a group creates a complex dynamic that requires specialized therapeutic interventions.

Several of the Turpin children have begun to embrace opportunities previously denied to them, pursuing education, careers, and independent living. Reports suggest some are attending college, while others are exploring vocational training. The interview is anticipated to showcase their individual achievements and highlight the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.

The upcoming ABC special has already generated significant buzz, with advocacy groups for child abuse survivors praising the network for providing a platform for the Turpin children to share their story. Many believe the interview will not only raise awareness about the devastating impact of child abuse but also inspire hope for other survivors. It is also expected to reignite conversations about the importance of mandatory reporting laws, the effectiveness of child protective services, and the need for increased resources for trauma-informed care.

Beyond the immediate impact of the broadcast, the interview is likely to have a lasting legacy, serving as a powerful reminder of the enduring consequences of abuse and the unwavering strength of those who survive. The Turpin children's story is a testament to the importance of intervention, the power of healing, and the fundamental right of every child to a safe and nurturing environment.