Netflix’s new docuseries “The Keepers” is taking the nation by storm as its filmmakers attempt to solve the 1970 murder of Sister Catherine Cesnik, while investigating sexual abuse allegations by teenage students at a Baltimore high school. But will there be a follow-up season?
“I have no plans to continue documenting it,” filmmaker Ryan White told E! Online. “This was a painful process for a lot of the people involved…and it’s draining for them to have to retell the most horrific parts of their lives…but that’s not to say that I’m not excited to see what answers come out of it.”
“The Keepers” explores the murder of Sister Cathy, who disappeared in November 1969 and whose body was discovered in January of 1970. The coroner determined she was hit by a blunt object in the head. However, the documentary delves into a deeper issue — it uncovers the alleged sexual abuse at a Catholic school in Baltimore, Maryland. It is believed Sister Cathy was going to expose the sexual abuse scandal — and was killed for it.
The documentary features six victims who allege sexual abuse by one Father Joseph Maskell, who has since passed away. However, in a recent interview with TheWrap, White said he knew of at least 40 victims.
The docuseries also delves deeply into a lawsuit against Father Maskell brought by “Jane Doe,” now identified as Jean Wehner, and “Jane Roe,” since identified as Teresa Lancaster. Throughout the series, the devastation experienced by survivors is laid bare, as is their strength in confronting unthinkable childhood horrors.
“I hope this documentary can be a tool of healing, but it’s about to be very triggering for the survivors,” said White.
“The Keepers” premiered Friday on Netflix.