Inside Lifetime’s I Am Mary Jo Buttafuoco: True Story, Cast, Streaming
A notorious real-life crime is retold in Lifetime’s new film I Am Mary Jo Buttafuoco. Discover the story behind the headlines, the cast bringing it to life, and where Aussies can catch the drama.
Lifetime’s latest true crime drama, I Am Mary Jo Buttafuoco, dives into one of the most talked-about cases of the 1990s, this time from the perspective of the woman at the centre of it all. The film, directed by Heather Hawthorn Doyle, puts Mary Jo Buttafuoco’s voice front and centre, offering a fresh look at a story that’s been splashed across headlines for decades.
Premiering on 17 January 2026 at 8pm ET in the US, the film aims to move beyond the tabloid frenzy, focusing on the personal fallout and resilience of Mary Jo herself. Here’s a look at the real events, the cast, and how to stream the film from Down Under.
The Shocking Events Behind the Film
Back in 1992, Mary Jo Buttafuoco’s life was turned upside down when she was shot in the face by Amy Fisher, a teenager who’d been involved with Mary Jo’s husband, Joey. The incident followed a heated confrontation after Fisher revealed the affair, leading to a violent outcome that left Mary Jo with lasting injuries and half her face paralysed.
“Half of her face was paralysed after being shot, and her familial life went asunder, along with all the media and social scrutiny that came her way, which this film covers.”
The film doesn’t just rehash the crime; it explores the impact on Mary Jo’s family, her recovery, and the relentless public attention that followed. By telling the story through her eyes, the film offers a more personal take on a case that’s often been sensationalised.
Meet the Cast Bringing the Story to Life
Chloe Lanier leads the cast as Mary Jo, bringing a grounded performance to a role that’s both challenging and emotionally charged. Lanier is known for her work on NCIS: Hawaii and General Hospital, and here she steps into the shoes of a woman whose life was changed in an instant.
Maddy Hills takes on the role of Amy Fisher, while Dillon Casey plays Joey Buttafuoco. Mary Jo herself appears as the narrator, guiding viewers through the events and their aftermath. The supporting cast includes Shay Galor, rounding out a team that aims to do justice to a story that’s as complex as it is infamous.
How to Watch I Am Mary Jo Buttafuoco
The film made its debut on Lifetime in the US, but for those keen to catch it from Australia, there are a few options. It’s available to stream on platforms like Hulu + Live, DirecTV Stream, and Philo for US viewers. Aussies can look out for it on the Lifetime Movie Club via the Amazon Channel, where it’s now available on demand.
Here’s a quick rundown of the key details:
Film: I Am Mary Jo Buttafuoco
Director: Heather Hawthorn Doyle
Main Cast: Mary Jo Buttafuoco, Chloe Lanier, Maddy Hills, Dillon Casey, Shay Galor
Streaming: Lifetime Movie Club on Amazon Channel (US)
Are you planning to give it a watch? Let us know what you reckon about this new take on a notorious case.