Netflix’s Apple Cider Vinegar has taken viewers by storm, captivating audiences with its intense storyline and compelling characters. One particular character, Milla Blake, portrayed by Alycia Debnam-Carey, has sparked curiosity due to her apparent real-life inspiration. Reports suggest that Milla may be loosely based on Jessica Ainscough, a well-known Australian blogger who became famous for documenting her battle with cancer.
According to RadioTimes, Milla’s character draws parallels to Ainscough, who was diagnosed with epithelioid sarcoma at 22 in 2008. Ainscough, known as The Wellness Warrior, became a prominent figure in the wellness community by sharing her journey of using alternative therapies, such as Gerson Therapy, to fight her illness. Gerson Therapy, which involved consuming raw juices and undergoing coffee enemas, garnered her a large following. Despite her success, Ainscough’s story ended tragically when she passed away in 2015.
Samantha Strauss, the creator of Apple Cider Vinegar, discussed Milla’s character in an interview with Tudum by Netflix, stating that Milla represents the influencers of the time. She described her as someone “desperately trying to save her own life” but becoming “blind to the truth because of it.” This reflection on Milla’s journey highlights the struggles of balancing the pursuit of health with the pressure to present an idealized version of wellness to the public.
While Milla’s character is not a direct one-to-one depiction of Ainscough, the similarities between their stories add a layer of depth to the show’s exploration of health, alternative medicine, and the complexities of social media influence.
Apple Cider Vinegar is now available for streaming on Netflix, offering a thought-provoking narrative that draws on real-life themes.