Lifetime Premieres “A Husband to Die For: The Lisa Aguilar Story”

Lead: Lifetime unveiled its new true-crime film “A Husband to Die For: The Lisa Aguilar Story” today, chronicling the 1994 stabbing of eight-month-pregnant Lisa Aguilar in Fremont, California, by her husband Darren West.

Nut Graf: The film, produced in collaboration with Lisa herself, revisits her miraculous survival and quest for justice, underscoring domestic violence’s hidden dangers and resilience in the face of betrayal.

Premiere Highlights

When & Where: Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 8/7c exclusively on Lifetime.
Director & Producers: Directed by David Weaver; produced by 1Department Entertainment, Lighthouse Pictures and Wishing Floor Films.
Authentic Consultation: The real Lisa Aguilar served as a consultant and testified at multiple parole hearings to ensure factual accuracy.

Survivor’s Ordeal and Aftermath

Lisa Aguilar appeared to lead an idyllic life until her husband donned a gorilla mask and stabbed her over 50 times, leaving her and her unborn child for dead. Miraculously, both survived, and evidence soon pointed to Darren-initially defended by Lisa before the horrific truth emerged. With support from her grandmother Gabrielle and a dedicated legal team, Lisa confronted her attacker in court, leading to his conviction for attempted murder.

Cast and Performances

Keana Lyn Bastidas as Lisa Aguilar delivers an emotional portrayal of fear and fortitude.
Jon McLaren as Darren West embodies chilling duplicity and violence.
Marilu Henner as Gabrielle, Lisa’s grandmother, provides a grounded moral center and earned praise for her authentic depiction of unwavering familial support.

Broader Impact

By dramatizing Lisa’s survival, Lifetime aims to raise awareness of intimate-partner violence and the importance of believing survivors. The network’s “ripped from the headlines” branding emphasizes that truth can be stranger-and more harrowing-than fiction, inviting viewers to reflect on warning signs and avenues for help.

Subheadings

True Story Roots: Based on Aguilar’s actual 1994 attack and subsequent testimony.
Emotional Resonance: The film’s raw portrayal highlights themes of betrayal, resilience, and justice.
Viewer Resources: Hotline numbers and support organizations were displayed following the premiere to assist domestic violence victims.

“A Husband to Die For: The Lisa Aguilar Story” stands as both a gripping thriller and a vital conversation starter on domestic abuse, showcasing one woman’s refusal to be silenced.