Naman Shrestha
Lifetime’s ‘I Was Octomom: The Natalie Suleman Story’ is a dramatized version of the true events surrounding Natalie Suleman, the protagonist through whose perspective the story unfolds. Set around 2009, the biographical drama movie follows her journey as she uses the IVF procedure to welcome eight children into the world. Following her decision to keep growing her family, she becomes an easy target for the media as they rebrand her identity.
Somehow, Natalie manages to survive the constant media attacks in order to keep her big family intact. Thus, it is her resilience that allows her to prevent her life from being torn apart. Directed by Brianne Nord-Stewart, the film utilizes different locations and settings to visually depict the different phases of Natalie’s life, thus adding a hint of authenticity to the narrative.
Where Was I Was Octomom: The Natalie Suleman Story Filmed?
‘I Was Octomom: The Natalie Suleman Story’ was reportedly filmed in its entirety in British Columbia, specifically in Greater Vancouver. As per reports, principal photography for the Lifetime production commenced around mid-September 2024 and continued for several weeks before seemingly getting wrapped up in early October of the same year. After the conclusion of the shooting process, Caitlin Stryker took to social media and opened up about her experience: “What a fabulous experience, everyone involved was beyond amazing—many thanks to the generous props department for this stunning bouquet 💐 And check out my stories to see how the glam squad celebrated me today! Okay, I wish I could but I can’t say anything more about this fun one yet…”
Greater Vancouver, British Columbia
Also known as Metro Vancouver, the metropolitan area reportedly served as the primary production location for ‘I Was Octomom: The Natalie Suleman Story.’ Several streets and neighborhoods of the city of Vancouver, Greater Vancouver’s major urban center, were turned into film sets by the filming unit. They also seemingly took over numerous actual establishments in order to lens pivotal interior scenes, involving residences and hospitals.
It is also likely that the cast and crew members set up camp in one of the film studios situated in the metropolitan area, such as Vancouver Film Studios, Bridge Studios, Eagle Creek Studios, and Martini Film Studios. According to reports, the production team of the Lifetime film also went to the city of Langley. Located east of Vancouver, the city possesses a different landscape than Vancouver, allowing the makers to tape sequences against suitable backdrops. Over the years, Greater Vancouver has hosted the production of multiple movies, including ‘Seven Years in Tibet,’ ‘Big Eyes,’ ‘Welcome to Marwen,’ ‘Brain on Fire,’ and ‘Toni Braxton: Unbreak My Heart.’
I Was Octomom: The Natalie Suleman Story Cast Details
The compelling performances from Kristen Lee Gutoskie, Caitlin Stryker, and Anita Wittenberg bring the story of ‘I Was Octomom: The Natalie Suleman Story’ to life. Before getting into the entertainment industry, Caitlin was a ballet dancer with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s Young Performers Ensemble. Meanwhile, Kristen is a SAG-nominated actor who used to take piano and singing lessons.
Kristen Lee Gutoskie as Natalie Suleman
Hailing from Toronto, Ontario, Kristen Lee Gutoskie portrays the protagonist, Natalie Suleman, in the Lifetime production. Widely known for her portrayal of Beth in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ and Seline in ‘The Vampire’s Diaries,’ she has also been featured in various other shows, including ‘Beaver Falls,’ ‘Originals,’ ‘Containment,’ ‘Relationship Status,’ ‘Lethal Weapon,’ and ‘Chicago Fire.’ Her movie credits include ‘The Million Dollar Bet,’ ‘All the World Is Sleeping,’ and ‘The Maestro.’
Caitlin Stryker as Beth
The award-winning actor Caitlin Stryker dons the garb of Beth, Natalie’s best friend, in ‘I Was Octomom: The Natalie Suleman Story.’ Throughout her acting career, she has been featured in different kinds of projects. You might recognize her from movies and shows like ‘Nobody Dumps My Daughter,’ ‘Aurora Teagarden Mysteries: Death at the Diner,’ ‘Inventing the Christmas Prince,’ ‘Dirty Little Secret,’ ‘Continuum,’ ‘Clarice,’ ‘Day of the Dead,’ and ‘A Million Little Things.’
Anita Wittenberg as Angela
The ‘Longlegs’ fame Anita Wittenberg essays the role of Angela, Natalie’s mother, in the drama movie. Her face might seem familiar to some of you because she has been featured in ‘Riverdale’ as Dr. Whitley and ‘Supergirl’ as Glee Club Teacher. Her other credits include ‘The Christmas Aunt,’ ‘Cruel Instruction,’ and ‘Gold Digger Killer.’
Apart from the above-mentioned cast members, ‘I Was Octomom: The Natalie Suleman Story’ also features other talented actors, including David Allan Pearson as Eddie, Jovanna Burke as Gail, Miles Marthaller as 6-year-old Elijah, Benjamin Jacobson as 10-year-old Elijah, Scarlett Tupper as 9-year-old Amerah, Lauren Akemi Bradley as Ann Curry, and Adam Beauchesne as Obstetrician. In addition, Kylee Bush portrays Jules, while Genevieve Fleming plays the role of Lara.
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