Ep 21. I Had My Cousins Baby

I Had My Cousins Baby is an emotionally charged episode of the documentary series True Life, which explores the complicated and controversial issue of genetic relationships and reproduction. In this episode, viewers are introduced to two young people who are dealing with the aftermath of a decision to have a child together despite being first cousins.

The first subject of the episode is a 19-year-old girl named Lacey who lives in a small town in New Jersey. Lacey had always been close with her cousin Chris, who lived nearby, and they spent a lot of time together as kids. However, as they got older, they began to develop romantic feelings for each other, and eventually, they became intimate. Lacey knew the risks of having a child with a blood relative, but she believed that the love she shared with Chris was worth the potential consequences.

The second subject of the episode is a 22-year-old man named Anthony from Florida. Anthony is also first cousins with his partner, a 20-year-old woman named Kim. They met when they were kids and became close friends, but as they grew older, their relationship became more romantic. Like Lacey and Chris, they decided to have a child together despite the potential risks.

Throughout the episode, viewers follow Lacey and Anthony as they navigate the ups and downs of their unconventional relationships and prepare for the arrival of their babies. They both face judgment and criticism from family members, friends, and strangers who are deeply troubled by the idea of cousins having children together. However, they also find support from those who understand the depth of their emotions and the complexities of their situations.

The episode also delves into the scientific and legal implications of genetic relationships and reproduction. Viewers learn about the increased risk of genetic disorders and birth defects that can result from cousin marriages and the controversial laws and cultural norms that govern these unions around the world. The show presents a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of the pros and cons of genetic relationships and leaves viewers with a greater understanding of the complexities of human love and desire.

Overall, I Had My Cousins Baby is a powerful episode of True Life that challenges viewers to confront their own biases and assumptions about family, love, and reproduction. It is an emotionally resonant and intellectually stimulating look at a controversial topic that is sure to spark conversations and debates long after the episode is over.