Is the Amish Stud a true story
Is the Amish Stud a true story – Lifetime’s fall movie lineup brings us another gripping true crime story, this time with an unexpected twist – the tranquil world of the Amish community takes center stage in “Amish Stud: The Eli Weaver Story.” In this article, we’ll explore the real-life events that inspired this movie, delve into the characters involved, and reveal where they are today.
Is “Amish Stud: The Eli Weaver Story” Based on a True Story?
Yes, it is. The movie draws inspiration from a real-life incident that occurred on June 2, 2009. The victim, Barbara Weaver, was a 30-year-old mother of five, deeply committed to the Amish way of life. Eli Weaver, her husband and the central character in the story, was known for his extramarital affairs and infidelity.
Who Is Eli Weaver, and Was He Really an “Amish Stud”?
Eli Weaver was a member of the Amish community who first met Barbara circa 1999 during their Rumspringa – a period when young Amish individuals explore the outside world. While Barbara struggled with leaving her faith behind, Eli embraced the outside world by partying and engaging in relationships with women from outside the Amish community. Despite their different paths during Rumspringa, Barbara and Eli eventually married and had five children together.
Eli continued to cheat on Barbara with women from outside the Amish faith, often using a dating profile where he called himself the “AMISH STUD.” Shockingly, he fathered a child with one of these women. Multiple women who had affairs with Eli reported that he frequently talked about getting rid of his wife.
At one point, Eli even left Barbara, resulting in his being shunned by the community. However, he later returned to his wife and the Amish community. Tragically, Barbara suspected that Eli had a new mistress just before her murder.
Barb Raber – The Mistress and Accomplice
Barb Raber, a 39-year-old married mother of three and a Mennonite, played a significant role in this tragic tale. She worked as a driver in a neighboring Amish community and became Eli’s mistress. In the weeks leading up to Barbara’s murder, Eli and Raber exchanged numerous text messages, plotting Barbara’s demise.
Their discussions covered various methods, including poisoned cupcakes and setting the house on fire with Barbara inside. When Raber questioned the fate of Eli’s five children, he callously remarked that they didn’t matter because they would go straight to Heaven if they died.
Raber initially attempted to carry out the murder ahead of the planned date but aborted the attempt due to fear. Eli persuaded her to try again, providing encouragement when she expressed doubts. To establish an alibi, Eli went on a fishing trip with friends while Raber entered the Weaver household and fatally shot Barbara with a shotgun. Barbara’s children alerted their neighbor, who contacted the police.
The Investigation and Arrests
Despite having an alibi, the police immediately suspected Eli’s involvement in the murder. To cover their tracks, Raber had a friend call and leave a voicemail, threatening Eli and suggesting they had the wrong person. This ruse did not convince the police.
When investigators discovered Eli’s online dating activities, they realized he must have had a cell phone despite his Amish faith. The police set up a sting operation with one of Eli’s former flings, eventually obtaining his cell phone number. Subpoenaed phone records revealed that the phone was registered in Barb Raber’s name, along with a trove of incriminating text messages between Eli and Raber discussing the murder plot. The case was closed, and both were arrested.
Where Are Eli Weaver and Barb Raber Today?
Both Eli Weaver and Barb Raber are currently serving time in prison for their heinous crimes. Eli testified against Raber and was convicted of complicity to murder, resulting in a sentence of 15 years to life. He becomes eligible for parole in 2024 when he will be 44 years old.
Barb Raber, on the other hand, was convicted of aggravated murder and received a life sentence. She will be eligible for parole in 2032, at the age of 62.
Eli Weaver Appearance and the “Amish Stud” Persona
Eli Weaver’s physical appearance plays a significant role in the story, as he used his looks to charm and manipulate women as the self-proclaimed “Amish stud.” Interestingly, the movie cast the notably attractive Luke Macfarlane in this role, emphasizing the character’s appeal. This choice raises questions about the real Eli Weaver’s appearance and whether he truly embodied the persona of an “Amish stud.”
“Amish Stud: The Eli Weaver Story” Premiere and Streaming Information
“Amish Stud: The Eli Weaver Story” is set to premiere on Lifetime on Saturday, September 30th, at 8 p.m. ET. If you have a cable login, you can stream the movie as it airs on Lifetime’s website.
If you don’t have a cable login, you can still watch the movie live through various live TV streaming services such as Sling TV, frndly, Hulu, and Philo.
In addition to its premiere, the movie will re-air on Lifetime at the following times:
- Sunday, October 1 at 12 a.m. ET
- Friday, October 6 at 8 p.m. ET
- Saturday, October 7 at 12 a.m. ET
- Saturday, October 7 at 2 p.m. ET
If you miss the initial broadcast, you can also stream “Amish Stud: The Eli Weaver Story” for free (with ads) on Lifetime’s website or on-demand via Sling TV, frndly, Hulu, and Philo.
Who Is Eli Weaver?
Eli Weaver was a member of the Old Order Amish community. He lived with his late wife Barbara and their five children. According to their neighbor Mary Eicher, Eli Weaver was a friendly and outgoing person. He would sometimes visit neighbors late in the evening and ask for rides, and he was known for being considerate.
Where Did Eli Weaver Live?
Eli Weaver and his wife Barbara lived in the peaceful and conservative community of Apple Creek, Ohio. Barbara appeared to have a content life as an Amish housewife. They had been married for a decade and had five young children together.
Is “A Killing in Amish Country” Based on a True Story?
Yes, the Lifetime movie “A Killing in Amish Country” is based on a true story. It is adapted from the real-life events detailed in the true crime book titled “A Killing in Amish Country: Sex, Betrayal and a Cold-Blooded Murder” by authors Gregg Olsen and Rebecca Morris. The movie portrays the actual story of Eli Weaver, who conspired with his lover to eliminate his Amish wife so they could be together.
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