In a recent appearance on the “All-In” podcast, Billy Evans, the partner of controversial figure Elizabeth Holmes, spoke candidly about their decision to allow a camera crew into their home as Holmes faces an 11-year prison sentence. This discussion coincided with the theatrical release of the acclaimed documentary “You Can See Everything,” directed by Nathan Fielder and Lance Oppenheim, which has already garnered Oscar buzz after debuting at the Telluride Film Festival last month.
Evans Discusses Context Behind Filming
Evans explained the rationale behind their choice to participate in the documentary, emphasizing, “[The context going in] is Elizabeth is facing an 11-year sentence. She’s been prevented from speaking publicly in any way, shape, or form and this would come out after that period in which she is now allowed to talk.” He noted that much of the narrative around Holmes has been shaped by various media outlets, and their goal was to allow viewers to form their own opinions about her without the confines of existing portrayals. “It’s not to re-litigate the case,” he added, stressing that the film aimed to showcase Holmes as an individual rather than a symbol of her legal troubles.
Humanizing Holmes Through Personal Experiences
Evans recounted how people close to him initially reacted when they learned he was dating Holmes. “Every single one of these people thought I was crazy. ‘Do you know who she is?’ I would tell them, ‘I understand why you feel that way but just meet her.’” He described how meeting Holmes in relaxed settings, like hiking or spending time with friends, led to a significant shift in perceptions. “That was the intention of the film. To help scale that up and allow other people to sit with her and make up their own minds,” he said.
Backlash and Concerns About the Documentary
Despite Evans’ hopeful intentions, the release of “You Can See Everything” appears to have intensified the backlash against Holmes. Even before its screening, a teaser trailer from A24 left many viewers unsettled by Holmes’ demeanor and her claims of innocence regarding her time at Theranos. Evans admitted on the podcast, “I haven’t seen it. I might think this is the dumbest thing I have ever done,” acknowledging how Holmes “looks insane” in the trailer and noting that “especially the music” contributes to a negative portrayal of her.
Evans Reflects on Personal Stakes
Evans shared his feelings of apprehension regarding the documentary’s implications. “Am I nervous? I have been through so many intense, surreal experiences that it takes a bit to raise my blood pressure,” he remarked, while ultimately standing by their decision to participate. “With this there’s certainly concern but it’s ultimately our decision.”
Having met in 2017, Evans and Holmes welcomed their first child, William, in 2021, followed by a daughter, Invicta, in 2023. To hear more of Evans’ thoughts on the film and their experience, you can watch his full interview on the “All-In” podcast in the video below.
