Michael Oher Challenges Adoption Claim in ‘The Blind Side,’ Alleges Exploitation by Tuohy Family

Former NFL player Michael Oher, known for his role in the movie “The Blind Side,” has recently disputed the narrative surrounding his adoption by the Tuohy family. Oher claims that instead of being adopted, he was placed under a conservatorship, which allowed the Tuohys to profit from his name and image. In a petition filed with the Shelby County, Tenn., probate court, Oher seeks to dissolve the conservatorship and hold the Tuohy family accountable for their actions.

Michael Oher, now 37 years old, filed a petition on Monday, accusing Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy of misleading him into signing papers that made them his conservators, rather than his adoptive parents, in 2004. Oher alleges that the Tuohy family established the conservatorship to exploit his name, image, and likeness for financial gain.

In his petition, Oher requests the dissolution of the conservatorship and demands that the Tuohys provide a detailed account of his assets, as required by the conservatorship agreement. He also seeks payment of any owed money, including interest, reimbursement for attorney fees, punitive damages, and sanctions for violating the terms of the conservatorship.

Oher first met the Tuohy family during his high school years when he began staying with them intermittently. They encouraged him to consider them as his adoptive parents and even referred to them as “mom” and “dad.” However, Oher now claims that the conservatorship document he signed was presented to him as an adoption agreement.

“The Blind Side,” a movie based on journalist and author Michael Lewis’ book “The Blind Side: Evolution of the Game,” was released in 2009. The film achieved significant commercial success, grossing over $300 million worldwide. While the Tuohys reportedly made millions from the movie, Oher alleges that he did not receive any compensation.

Oher also alleges that his name was signed on a document in 2007, granting 20th Century Fox exclusive rights to use his name, likeness, and personal experiences related to the book and movie. Oher denies ever signing this document and questions its authenticity.

Requests for comment from Leigh Anne Tuohy and the Tuohy family’s nonprofit organization, Making It Happen, have not been returned at this time.

Michael Oher’s petition to dissolve the conservatorship and seek accountability from the Tuohy family challenges the widely known adoption claim depicted in “The Blind Side.” Oher asserts that he was exploited for financial gain, while the Tuohys profited from his story. As legal proceedings unfold, the truth behind Oher’s relationship with the Tuohy family will be further examined and evaluated.