Chris Hansen, the former “Dateline NBC” correspondent known for the investigative series “To Catch a Predator,” has publicly distanced himself from “Primetime,” a forthcoming film portraying his role in the high-profile sting operations targeting online predators. The film, produced by A24 and starring Robert Pattinson as Hansen, premiered on Saturday at the Venice Film Festival and is set to open in theaters on Sept. 25.
Hansen declined to watch the film after a private screening on Aug. 20 at A24’s Manhattan offices, citing concerns over a nondisclosure agreement he was asked to sign. He felt the agreement would restrict his ability to raise legal objections to the portrayal of his character. Despite this, Hansen’s company purchased advertising spots to run before showings of “Primetime,” promoting TruBlu, his subscription streaming platform where he continues to expose online predators through his current show, “Takedown.”
“Primetime” revisits the widely publicized “To Catch a Predator” franchise, which aired on “Dateline” between 2004 and 2007. The series, known for using decoys posing as minors in online chat rooms to lure potential offenders, sparked both acclaim and debate over journalistic ethics. The film is based on a 2007 Esquire article about the suicide of Bill Conradt, a Texas prosecutor targeted in a November 2006 sting that ended tragically. Directed by Lance Oppenheim in his narrative feature debut, “Primetime” dramatizes the events surrounding the franchise without direct consultation with Hansen.
Hansen has expressed frustration that the filmmakers used his name, image, and likeness without prior approval. He said he is not seeking financial compensation but hopes for clearer labeling of the film as a fictionalized account rather than one “inspired by true events,” as stated in the movie’s trailer. He also suggested the filmmakers consider donating to organizations that support victims of child predators.
The source material for these concerns emerged during communications beginning in May, when Hansen and his business partners repeatedly requested access to the film or script and discussed potential compensation or production credits. A24 responded that consultation was not required for the production, emphasizing the dramatized nature of the film and expressing openness to Hansen’s support, though acknowledging he might decline.
Legal experts note that dramatized portrayals of living individuals generally fall under First Amendment protections, which allow filmmakers to proceed without explicit permission. Similar disputes have occurred in recent years, such as Olivia de Havilland’s unsuccessful lawsuit against the FX series “Feud” and Daryl Hannah’s public objections to her depiction in “Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette.”
Hansen’s “To Catch a Predator” franchise gained international visibility by exposing men attempting to engage in sexual offenses with minors, often leading to arrests. Collaborating with local police and the civilian group Perverted-Justice, the show used hidden cameras and dramatic confrontations, including Hansen’s now-iconic line, “Have a seat.” While the initiative brought much-needed attention to online predation, it also drew criticism for perceived ethical lapses and law enforcement collaboration.
The franchise ended in early 2008, months after the death of Conradt, which intensified scrutiny of the series’ methods. Hansen left NBC News in 2013 but has continued his work independently, leveraging digital platforms such as TruBlu and social media, where he has amassed significant followings, including over one million TikTok followers. His ongoing efforts include a true crime podcast, “Have a Seat,” and a continued commitment to combating online threats to children.