The Man With 1000 Kids: Sperm Donor Jonathan Meijer Lambasts Netflix Docuseries

Jonathan Meijer, the man who made headlines for allegedly fathering hundreds of children through sperm donation, has strongly criticized a Netflix docuseries that portrays him in a negative light. The series, titled "The Man With 1000 Kids," presents interviews with various couples and women who discovered that Meijer had been involved in their conception through sperm banks and private donations. This revelation has raised concerns about the potential risk of inbreeding among half siblings who may be unaware of their genetic connection.

Disputing the Allegations

Meijer, who did not participate in the docuseries, has refuted the claim that he fathered 1,000 children, stating that the actual number is closer to 550. He also contested the documentary's accusation that he misled families about the number of his offspring. According to Meijer, he initially disclosed the accurate count to families but later chose to withhold it in line with the practices of major international sperm banks.

In response to the docuseries, Meijer defended his actions in a YouTube video and asserted that he provided more information to parents than what is typically offered at fertility clinics.

Repercussions and Legal Actions

The docuseries also featured comments from fertility fraud activist Eve Wiley, who speculated that Meijer could have fathered thousands of children based on the number of successful sperm donations. Concerns were raised about the psychological impact on these children as they discover the extent of their familial connections.

Meijer expressed his displeasure with the portrayal of his motivations in the documentary, asserting that his decision to donate sperm was driven by a desire to help others. He denied any addiction to sperm donation and objected to being labeled as a "serial donor," stating that assisting multiple families is a common practice.

The controversy surrounding Meijer extends to his compliance with medical guidelines and laws in the Netherlands, his home country. While the Dutch Society for Obstetrics and Gynecology banned him from donating sperm in the Netherlands, Meijer continued to donate to recipients in other countries. Notably, a Dutch court imposed a significant financial penalty on him for violating the ban on sperm donation.

Denial of Serious Allegations

Meijer vehemently denied the documentary's claim that he mixed his sperm with another donor's before it was transferred to a recipient to determine whose genes would "win." He labeled this accusation as a "blatant lie" and declared his intention to pursue legal action if the claim is not retracted.

Netflix has not yet provided a response to the controversy. The director of the docuseries, Josh Allott, disclosed that they had extended multiple invitations to Meijer for an interview and an opportunity to address the allegations but were turned down.

Meijer's Position and Legal Actions

Meijer has made it clear that he opted not to participate in the documentary and emphasized his intention to tell his own story. He has expressed his lack of cooperation with Netflix and attributed the responsibility to the company to ensure the accuracy of the content they produce.