Michael Oher’s Petition: Challenging the ‘Blind Side’ Adoption Story and Seeking Justice

Michael Oher, the retired NFL player whose life story was depicted in the 2009 film “The Blind Side,” is again making headlines.

He has recently filed a petition asserting that the Tuohy family, Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy, who adopted him out of poverty, never legally adopted him. This revelation has prompted Oher to seek justice, requesting millions from the Tuohy family for their alleged exploitation.

The legal document obtained by ESPN states, “The lie of Michael’s adoption is one upon which Co-Conservators Leigh Anne Tuohy and Sean Tuohy have enriched themselves at the expense of their Ward, the undersigned Michael Oher.” Oher’s discovery of this alleged lie in February 2023 has led him to question the conservatorship arrangement that he consented to, believing it would make him a genuine member of the Tuohy family.

The 14-page petition, submitted to the Shelby County, Tennessee probate court, challenges the commonly accepted narrative surrounding Oher’s adoption by the Tuohys during high school.

According to the petition, shortly after Oher’s 18th birthday, the Tuohy couple supposedly deceived him into signing a conservatorship agreement. This agreement gave the Tuohys the power to act on Oher’s behalf and make financial decisions for him. However, this arrangement was apparently manipulated to benefit their biological children, who gained royalties from the successful film “The Blind Side,” while Oher received nothing in return.

Oher’s legal team has been contacted for further comments regarding the petition and its claims.

In his petition, Oher seeks an end to the Tuohys’ conservatorship and a directive to cease the use of his name and likeness by the Tuohy family. In his 2011 memoir, “I Beat the Odds,” Oher revealed that the conservatorship was presented to him as akin to adoptive parents but with particular legal distinctions due to his age.

Had Oher been formally adopted, he would have gained full membership within the Tuohy family while retaining control over his financial matters.

The petition delves deeply into various aspects, including the financial gains made by the Tuohy family through the film’s success. It also highlights the individuals representing the Tuohys in contrast to those representing Oher. Interestingly, the film’s release coincided with Oher’s burgeoning career in the NFL.

As this legal battle unfolds, Michael Oher’s story continues to captivate public interest, shedding light on the complexities of adoption, guardianship, and the blurred lines between fact and fiction. The outcome of this petition could reshape the narrative woven around Oher’s life and relationship with the Tuohy family.

About ‘The Blind Side’ movie:

The Inspirational Story Behind “The Blind Side”

“The Blind Side” is inspired by the book “The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game” by Michael Lewis, which delves into the life of Michael Oher and the Tuohy family, who took him in. It explores the world of American football and the role of the left tackle in protecting the quarterback’s “blind side,” a position that Oher would excel at.

The story revolves around Leigh Anne Tuohy, a strong-willed interior designer, and her husband, Sean, who come across Michael, a large, physically gifted teenager, wandering the streets. They learn about his difficult past and unstable home life and decide to take him in, offering him shelter, support, and a loving family environment.

As Michael begins to experience the warmth of a caring family, he discovers his passion for football and starts to unlock his potential as an athlete. With the support of his adoptive family and his coach, Michael begins his journey from a homeless teenager to a successful football player.

Impressive Performances and Acclaim

“The Blind Side” features a remarkable ensemble cast, with Sandra Bullock leading the way in the role of Leigh Anne Tuohy. Bullock’s portrayal of the tough, loving, and determined Leigh Anne earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress, as well as a Golden Globe Award.

Quinton Aaron, in the role of Michael Oher, delivers an emotionally charged performance that captures the transformation of a troubled young man into a confident athlete. The film also features strong performances by Tim McGraw as Sean Tuohy and Kathy Bates as Miss Sue, Michael’s tutor.