What Would You Do? Season 12 Episode 8 Interracial Adoption; the Nigerian Scam

In season 12 episode 8 of What Would You Do?, the show takes on two sensitive and oftentimes controversial topics: interracial adoption and the infamous Nigerian scam. The episode begins with a hidden camera scenario featuring a Caucasian woman who is searching for a family to adopt her mixed-race child. She approaches strangers in a park and asks if they know of any families who might be interested in adopting a child of a different race. This scenario is meant to highlight how some people may feel uncomfortable with the idea of interracial adoption and how they might respond to someone seeking help in this situation.

The second scenario involves the Nigerian scam, which has become a well-known con that has cost many innocent victims thousands of dollars. The scenario features an elderly woman who is approached by a man claiming to be a Nigerian prince in need of her help. He tells her that he has millions of dollars that he needs to transfer to the United States but needs her assistance in doing so. This scenario is meant to demonstrate how easy it is for people to fall for scams when they are targeted by skilled con artists.

Throughout the episode, host John Quiñones interviews people who found themselves in these situations. He questions them about their reactions and discusses how they might have responded differently if they had been in the same situation again. Additionally, he discusses the broader social issues that these scenarios highlight, such as racism and the vulnerability of the elderly to scams.

The episode features a variety of reactions to the hidden camera scenarios, ranging from those who offer support and advice to those who express discomfort or make hurtful comments. Some individuals react with suspicion or disbelief to the Nigerian prince's scam, while others offer to help him. And for the interracial adoption scenario, some people offer support and emotional resources, while others express discomfort or even hostility.

Overall, season 12 episode 8 of What Would You Do? explores two timely and challenging issues that affect millions of people around the world. Through its use of hidden cameras and interviews, the show provides a window into the minds of everyday people and how they might react in these situations. It also offers viewers an opportunity to reflect on their own biases, beliefs, and actions in response to issues of race and fraud.