The True Story of Natalia Grace: From Adoption Scandal to Hulu’s Good American Family

The shocking true story of Natalia Grace, a young girl caught in a web of lies, abuse, and legal battles, has captivated audiences worldwide. Now, Hulu’s dramatic series Good American Family (premiered March 19, 2024) brings her story to life, starring Ellen Pompeo as Kristine Barnett.

This article revisits the real-life events that inspired the show, explores Natalia’s journey, and answers burning questions about her life today.

Who Is Natalia Grace?

Natalia Grace was born in Ukraine in 2003 with spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita, a rare form of dwarfism. After being placed for adoption, she arrived in the U.S. in 2008 and was adopted by a New Hampshire couple, Dyan and Gary Ciccone. However, the Ciccones gave her up within a year, claiming she displayed “disruptive behavior.”

In 2010, Indiana couple Kristine and Michael Barnett adopted Natalia, believing she was a 6-year-old orphan. But their lives soon spiraled into chaos.

The Barnetts’ Shocking Claims

The Barnetts accused Natalia of being an adult pretending to be a child. They claimed she had adult teeth, pubic hair, and even menstruated. In court documents and media interviews, they alleged she tried to poison Kristine, threatened their sons, and manipulated their family.




In 2012, the Barnetts petitioned an Indiana court to legally change Natalia’s birth year from 2003 to 1989, making her 22 years old instead of 8. This process, called “re-aging,” allowed them to abandon her in an apartment in 2013 while they moved to Canada with their biological sons.

Legal Battles and Neglect Charges

In 2019, Kristine and Michael Barnett were charged with neglect of a dependent and conspiracy. Prosecutors argued Natalia was a vulnerable child with disabilities, but the Barnetts insisted she was a dangerous adult. A judge dismissed the charges based on her legal age, but public outrage grew.

During the trial, Natalia revealed horrific abuse: Kristine allegedly hit her with a belt, pepper-sprayed her eyes, and overdosed her on medication. Michael Barnett was acquitted in 2022, and Kristine’s charges were dropped in 2023.

Natalia’s Life with the Mans Family

After the Barnetts left, Natalia moved in with Cynthia and Antwon Mans, a couple with 10 children. The Manses charged her rent and later adopted her in 2023. However, their relationship soured when Natalia began dating a man named Neil. The Manses allegedly confiscated her phone and restricted her freedom.

Neighbors and friends accused the Manses of whipping Natalia with belts and locking her in rooms. In late 2023, Natalia fled their home with help from her boyfriend and another family, the DePauls.

DNA Test Reveals the Truth

In 2023, a TruDiagnostic blood test proved Natalia was approximately 22 years old (born in 2003), confirming she was a child when the Barnetts adopted her. “This test throws every Barnett lie into the trash,” Natalia said in the docuseries The Curious Case of Natalia Grace.

Where Is Natalia Grace Now?

Today, Natalia lives with Nicole and Vince DePaul, a couple who tried to adopt her in 2009. They’re helping her heal from trauma, study for her GED, and learn to drive. Natalia dreams of becoming a teacher, wife, and mother.

“I’m taking control of my life,” she told PEOPLE. “This new version of me feels free.”




Natalia Grace’s story is a haunting reminder of how systemic failures can devastate a child’s life. While Hulu’s Good American Family revisits her past, Natalia is now focused on rebuilding her future. Her resilience continues to inspire millions, proving that truth and justice can prevail.

FAQs About Natalia Grace

1. How old is Natalia Grace?

A 2023 DNA test confirmed Natalia was born in 2003, making her 22 years old as of 2024. The Barnetts falsely claimed she was an adult.

2. What happened to Kristine and Michael Barnett?

Michael was found not guilty of neglect in 2022; Kristine’s charges were dismissed in 2023. Both deny abusing Natalia.

3. Is Good American Family based on a true story?

Yes. The Hulu series dramatizes Natalia’s adoption, the Barnetts’ accusations, and her fight to prove her age.

4. Why did the Mans family adopt Natalia?

The Manses took her in as guardians but later adopted her. Their relationship collapsed over claims of control and abuse.

5. What is spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita?

A rare dwarfism causing short stature, joint pain, and mobility issues. Natalia uses leg braces and a wheelchair.

6. Did Natalia Grace try to hurt the Barnetts?

Natalia denies all accusations, calling them lies fabricated to abandon her.

7. What is “re-aging”?

A legal process to change someone’s birth date. The Barnetts used it to abandon Natalia without legal consequences.

8. Where is Natalia Grace today?

She lives with the DePaul family in New York, focusing on therapy, education, and independence.

9. How did the media cover Natalia’s story?

Documentaries like The Curious Case of Natalia Grace and Dr. Oz episodes sparked national debate.

10. What’s next for Natalia Grace?

She aims to earn her GED, drive, and advocate for adoption reform.

11. Why did the Ciccones give up Natalia?

They claimed she had severe behavioral issues, though details remain unclear.

12. How did Natalia meet the DePauls?

The DePauls tried adopting her in 2009 but reconnected after she left the Manses.

13. What disabilities does Natalia have?

Besides dwarfism, she has ADHD, anxiety, and PTSD from years of trauma.

14. Was Natalia ever proven to be a “sociopath”?

No credible evidence supports the Barnetts’ claims. Experts say she’s a trauma survivor.

15. How accurate is Hulu’s Good American Family?

The show blends facts with dramatization but highlights Natalia’s perspective.