Notes on the 7M TikTok Dance Cult Documentary

Introduction

• New Netflix documentary titled "Dancing with the Devil" about the TikTok dance cult 7M.
• Influencer Miranda Derek went viral; her family claimed she was part of 7M.
• Many friends and family of 7M dancers have shared similar concerns.
• The documentary exposes dark aspects of the cult, including manipulation and extortion.

Overview of 7M Management

• Allegations of 7M Management luring TikTok creators with promises of fame and success.
• Creators eventually cut ties with family and friends.
• Reports of extortion and robbing members of their earnings.
• 7M is under scrutiny for its practices.

Background on Miranda and Melanie Wilking

• Sisters from Michigan passionate about dancing.
• Attended performing arts high school and engaged in various dance activities.
• Moved to Los Angeles to pursue dance careers.
• Established a social media presence and participated in events like VidCon.

Introduction to 7M and Shakina Church

• Miranda got involved with James Derek (B Dash) and through him, the Shakina Church.
• Shakina Church was founded by Robert Shin in 1994.
• 7M Management was created to manage TikTok dancers and elevate their profiles.
• Claims of significant follower increases through 7M's content creation.

Changes in Miranda Wilking’s Life

• Miranda began to distance herself from her family after joining 7M.
• Example: Missed grandfather's funeral, lied about having COVID.
• Family noticed drastic changes in Miranda's behavior and lifestyle.
• Miranda changed her name to Miranda Derek after marrying B Dash.

Family's Concerns and Investigations

• Miranda's family expressed worry about her involvement with 7M and Shakina Church.
• They noticed financial exploitation and manipulation by the church.
• Robert Shin's past and the church's shady practices raised red flags.

Robert Shin and Church's History

• Background: Former doctor who became preacher; operated a small congregation.
• Allegations of financial misconduct and manipulation of church members.
• Robert's luxurious lifestyle contrasted with the church's questionable ethics.
• Family members of the church involved in various capacities within 7M.

Community Reactions and Concerns

• General public reaction to the documentary has been critical of 7M and Robert Shin.
• Concerns raised about the manipulation of young influencers.
• Miranda's response to the documentary emphasized her autonomy and love for her family, despite their differences.

Conclusion

• The documentary serves as an eye-opener about cult-like behaviors within social media environments.
• Emphasis on the need for awareness of manipulative organizations targeting young creators.
• Encouragement for families to communicate about the risks associated with such groups.