Gypsy Rose Blanchard, whose murder case captivated the nation, was released from a Missouri prison on December 28th, 2022 after serving less than 10 years of her 10-year sentence.
Background of the Case
Gypsy Rose and her mother, Dee Dee Blanchard, were the focus of true crime headlines in 2015 when Gypsy orchestrated the brutal stabbing death of her mother. For years, Dee Dee had convinced the world that Gypsy was gravely ill and bound to a wheelchair due to a myriad of forged health issues in a disturbing case of Munchausen syndrome by proxy. Gypsy later stated that her mother had mentally, emotionally, and physically abused her for years.
At 19 years old, Gypsy began a secret online relationship with Nicholas Godejohn. Over time, Gypsy convinced Godejohn to travel from his home in Wisconsin to the Missouri house she shared with her mother to brutally stab Dee Dee to death. He did just that on June 14, 2015 while Gypsy waited in the bathroom, listening to her mother’s final screams.
Key Events Of The Case
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| June 14, 2015 | Nicholas Godejohn murders Dee Dee Blanchard in Missouri home |
| June 14, 2015 | Gypsy & Godejohn flee to Wisconsin, arrested shortly after |
| July 5, 2016 | Gypsy pleads guilty to second-degree murder |
| November 2018 | Online streaming documentary Mommy Dead and Dearest premieres about the case |
| February 2019 | Hulu series The Act depicts murder case |
| October 2021 | Godejohn found guilty of first-degree murder |
| December 2022 | Gypsy becomes eligible for parole, having served 85% of sentence |
The Question of Whether She Would Be Released
In the days leading up to her potential parole, speculation ran rampant about whether Gypsy would actually be released. A prison insider source stated that while she met the qualifications for early release per Missouri law, the final decision still depended on the parole board. Her good behavior in prison improved her chances, though many wondered if the violent nature of the crime would preclude her release.
On the morning of December 28th, 2022, Gypsy Rose Blanchard was released from the Chillicothe Correctional Center in Missouri. Escorted by her attorney and bundled up against the cold, Gypsy was photographed exiting the gates of the facility looking overwhelmed but determined. Supporters noted this as a positive next step while critics argued she hadn’t served nearly enough time given her willing participation in planning her mother’s brutal murder.
Where She Stands Now
Since her release yesterday morning, further details have emerged about Gypsy Rose’s future now that she is a free woman.
Current Status and Plans:
- Has been spotted shopping for shoes, embracing her new freedom
- Husband, Ryan Scott Anderson, picked her up from prison
- Couple currently lives in Louisiana
- No confirmation yet on career plans or if Gypsy will do interviews
Health and Support Systems
- Has embraced better nutrition and regular exercise while in prison
- Seems to be in a healthier state than when she entered
- Relied on her Christian faith and talents like writing plays to cope in prison
- Developed close friendships with other inmates
- Remains estranged from her father and stepmother
- Has seemingly embraced husband Ryan and his family as new support system
Financial Standing
- Received money in prison from father and fans to buy items and amenities
- Unclear if she has access to any funds upon release or if she will need employment
- Could generate income from interviews, book deals, script deals about her story
Regrets About the Crime
- Has repeatedly stated in interviews that she feels remorse about plotting her mother’s death
- Still grapples with complex feelings given lifetime of alleged abuse from mother
- Feels she can now work to honor her mother’s memory
What Comes Next
As Gypsy Rose Blanchard begins her new life outside of prison, many questions remain about what’s next for the woman at the center of this disturbing true crime story.
Possibility of Future Interviews
In the past, Gypsy participated in interviews and documentaries bringing light to her story while behind bars. With intense public interest in her release, it is possible she or her legal team will arrange future interviews or statements. Fans speculate she could write a memoir about her experiences as well.
Public Reactions
The Blanchard case has captivated and divided the public for years. Many empathize with the alleged abuse Gypsy suffered and wish her well in her recovery. Critics argue she still committed murder regardless of her past and hasn’t served sufficient time. Vocal reactions from both camps will likely continue.
Some key public voices on the release:
- Advocate groups against Munchausen by proxy emphasize this aspect when defending Gypsy’s actions
- True crime fans continue fascination with all key figures in the case
- Missouri politicians argue changes needed in parole system standards
Possible Legal Action
While Gypsy herself is now free, legal action continues against others involved in the case. Nicholas Godejohn, who physically committed the murder, recently lost appeals in his conviction. Prosecutors could still choose to bring charges against others who may have known of the Blanchards’ abuse and failed to intervene.
Lifetime TV Will Air New Interviews
Despite past reluctance to talk publicly, Gypsy agrees to participate in upcoming Lifetime docuseries featuring prison interviews with herself and Godejohn. The special promises new details about manipulated health history and murder plot. Whether the public feels Gypsy has served her time or if the system failed her yet again, this latest interview may shift opinions in the ongoing Blanchard case.
The story of Gypsy Rose Blanchard continues to develop with her unexpected early prison release. As she starts fresh in Louisiana with husband Ryan, time will tell whether she fades from public view or remains a key figure in true crime history.
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