Lifetime Debuts ‘A Husband to Die For: The Lisa Aguilar Story’

Lead Lifetime premiered A Husband to Die For: The Lisa Aguilar Story on Saturday, September 13, dramatizing the true account of Lisa Aguilar’s near-fatal attack eight months pregnant.

Nut Graf The film recounts how unborn mother Lisa Aguilar survived a brutal stabbing by her husband Darren-and later helped bring him to justice-underscoring themes of betrayal and resilience that resonate with viewers today.

Plot and Production Details

  • Lisa Aguilar, eight months pregnant, is ambushed by her husband, who dons a gorilla mask and stabs her dozens of times in their home; both she and her baby survive.
  • The movie stars Keana Lyn Bastidas as Lisa and Jon McLaren as Darren, with Marilu Henner portraying Lisa’s grandmother and moral anchor.
  • Directed by David Weaver and Colleen Rush, the Lifetime original was produced by 1Department Entertainment, Lighthouse Pictures, and Wishing Floor Films, with Lisa Aguilar consulting to ensure accuracy.

Cast and Creative Team

  • Keana Lyn Bastidas brings emotional depth to Lisa’s harrowing ordeal.
  • Jon McLaren embodies Darren’s chilling betrayal.
  • Marilu Henner anchors the narrative as Lisa’s grandmother.
  • Executive producers include Jameson Parker and Danielle von Zerneck; the screenplay was written by Pete Best.

Real-Life Impact

  • The real Lisa Aguilar testified 17 times at parole hearings to keep her ex-husband incarcerated after his guilty plea to attempted murder.
  • Aguilar’s involvement in the film’s production ensured faithful representation of her story and highlighted domestic violence awareness.

Viewer Information

  • Premiere: Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT on Lifetime.
  • Streaming: Available next day on the Lifetime app (no offline downloads permitted).

Subhead: Why This Story Matters

  • Domestic violence survivors and advocates have applauded the film’s unflinching portrayal of betrayal and survival.
  • Lisa Aguilar’s firsthand input lends authenticity and empowers viewers to recognize and confront abusive relationships.

Subhead: Audience Reception

  • Social media buzz centered on the shocking gorilla-mask attack and Aguilar’s courage.
  • Early reviews praise the strong performances and the film’s textured, authentic execution.