Watch Taken at Birth

Taken at Birth is a compelling docu-series that aired on TLC in 2019. This six-part series follows the incredible story of Dr. Thomas J. Hicks, a small-town Georgia doctor, who ran a black-market baby selling operation out of his clinic from the 1950s to the 1970s. With the help of DNA testing and genealogy experts, two investigative hosts, Lisa Joyner and Chris Jacobs, set out to uncover the truth of this dark period in American history.

Thomas J. Hicks had promised to help young women facing unwanted pregnancies, but instead he tricked them into believing their babies were stillborn and then secretly sold them to wealthy families. Over the years, Hicks is believed to have trafficked more than 200 babies, denying them of their biological families and true identities. The first episode of Taken at Birth catches up with several of the children who were sold by Hicks, now all grown adults and reunites them with their biological families after years of emotional trauma.

Lisa Joyner and Chris Jacobs serve as empathetic hosts, interviewing family members of the babies to piece together their stories. They also help the adopted children track down their biological families, taking them through the complex process of DNA testing and genealogy research while also helping to mend the emotional wounds that have been left open for decades.

Throughout the series, viewers are introduced to different families who were affected by Hicks' baby-selling scandal. Some stories are filled with joy as long-lost relatives are finally reunited. While other stories are filled with sadness, as some families were never able to find closure and deal with the overwhelming emotions that come with the realization that their entire lives were a lie.

Taken at Birth offers an insightful look at the growing trend of DNA testing and genealogy research, which has enabled thousands of people to uncover their true origins. The series also raises important questions about the ethics and regulation of the adoption industry in the United States.

As we journey through the lives of those affected by this scandal, we learn about the deep emotional trauma and scars they carry with them every day. The mix of interviews, archival footage, and dramatic reenactments add depth to the storytelling, creating an immersive experience for the viewer.

In addition to Lisa Joyner and Chris Jacobs, the series features Jane Blasio, a genealogist, and private investigator who is already familiar with cases of black-market adoptions. Throughout the series, we witness the dedication and perseverance of Jane Blasio as she works tirelessly to help the victims of Hicks’ scam reunite with their biological families.

Taken at Birth is not just a show; it’s a story about a dark chapter in American history that must be told. It exposes the greed and deceit of one man that left such a profound effect on so many lives. The series is a compelling look at an often-overlooked aspect of American adoptions and the importance of knowing one's biological roots.

Overall, Taken at Birth is a gripping and emotional documentary series that illuminates the complexities of adoption and the power of DNA testing and genealogy research to reveal the truth behind one of America's darkest secrets.

Taken at Birth is a series that ran for 1 seasons (5 episodes) between October 9, 2019 and on TLC