Shari Franke, born on March 3, 2003, in Utah, is the eldest of six children to parents Kevin and Ruby Franke. She first entered the public eye through her family’s YouTube channel, “8 Passengers,” which documented their daily lives and amassed over 2.5 million subscribers at its peak. However, behind the curated online presence lay a reality marked by strict and, at times, abusive parenting practices.
Early Life and Rise to YouTube Fame
Growing up, Shari was introduced to the world of social media at a young age. The “8 Passengers” channel, launched in early 2015, featured the Franke family’s day-to-day activities, from routine household events to family vacations. Shari, being the oldest, often took on a central role in the vlogs, showcasing her experiences as a teenager navigating school, extracurricular activities, and family dynamics.
Despite the channel’s wholesome facade, viewers occasionally raised concerns about the disciplinary methods employed by Ruby Franke. Incidents such as withholding meals as punishment and enforcing severe restrictions drew criticism and sparked debates about the ethics of family vlogging and child privacy.
Personal Struggles and Family Turmoil
As Shari matured, she became increasingly aware of the discrepancies between the family’s online portrayal and their real-life experiences. In her memoir, “The House of My Mother: A Daughter’s Quest for Freedom,” published on January 7, 2025, Shari candidly discusses the physical and psychological abuse she and her siblings endured. She recounts instances where her mother, influenced by family counselor Jodi Hildebrandt, imposed harsh punishments that left lasting emotional scars. Shari reflects on how the physical abuse she experienced in her early years transitioned into more insidious psychological manipulation as she grew older.
The situation escalated in August 2023 when Ruby Franke and Jodi Hildebrandt were arrested on multiple charges of aggravated child abuse. The arrest followed a harrowing incident where Shari’s younger brother escaped from Hildebrandt’s home, appearing malnourished and bearing signs of physical restraint. This event brought national attention to the family’s situation and led to both women being sentenced to consecutive prison terms ranging from 4 to 30 years.
Advocacy and New Beginnings
Following her mother’s arrest, Shari distanced herself from the public eye to focus on personal healing and advocacy. She has been vocal about the potential dangers of family vlogging, emphasizing the exploitation and privacy violations that can occur when children’s lives are broadcasted for profit. In her memoir, Shari articulates her concerns, stating, “I’ve witnessed the damage of what happens when your life is put online. There’s no ethical way to do it.”
In December 2024, Shari announced her engagement, expressing her intention to keep her personal life private moving forward. She shared on social media, “I’m not going to talk about my wedding, future husband, or future kids. I’ll continue to advocate for kids who didn’t have a voice… but this is closure for me. I’m moving on with my life, and that’s true freedom … .”
Education and Future Aspirations
Shari is currently pursuing her studies at Brigham Young University, focusing on a field that aligns with her passion for child advocacy and mental health. Through her academic pursuits and personal experiences, she aims to influence policy changes that protect children from exploitation in digital media. Shari’s journey from a family vlogging participant to an outspoken advocate underscores her resilience and commitment to fostering a safer environment for future generations.
Net Worth and Financial Independence
While Shari’s early exposure on “8 Passengers” contributed to the family’s income, her personal net worth is estimated to be approximately $97,500.
us.youtubers.me This figure encompasses earnings from her YouTube channel, book sales, and other personal endeavors. Shari has emphasized the importance of financial independence and is dedicated to building a career that reflects her values and advocacy work.
In summary, Shari Franke’s evolution from a YouTube personality to a dedicated advocate for children’s rights highlights her strength and determination. By sharing her story, she sheds light on the complexities of family vlogging and the imperative need to protect the well-being and privacy of children in the digital age.