Plot Synopsis

ONISION: IN REAL LIFE is a three-part true crime series that explores the truth behind allegations against one of Youtube's biggest and most controversial stars, Onision. Women came forward accusing him of unconscionable behavior, and the digital world swirled with rumors. But after weeks of frantic attention, there was a sudden quiet. And the mystery remained: what did Onision really do?

It all started when Greg Jackson, known to the world as "Onision," discovered YouTube. The platform was still gaining popularity, and as the power of YouTube grew, the character Onision grew with it. Jackson amassed millions of subscribers across multiple channels, luring in viewers with his off kilter, opinionated and often dark humor. But while his wildly popular channels were twisted, what was going on in his real life appears more sinister, and, according to his accusers, possibly criminal. According to one of his accusers, Jackson is the type of man who knows the legal age of consent in every state. It is alleged that he and his partner have manipulated relationships with minors, later sexualizing these relationships once they've reached legal age. Jackson is known for communicating with fans online, which, observers say, has only made it easier for him to find, connect and correspond with young admirers. He has had multiple relationships with fans, some public, some more private. But now women are coming forward saying they were coerced, claiming they had been groomed, manipulated and preyed upon by the YouTuber. Law enforcement is investigating, but as more accusers come forward, so do more questions.

Now, this series covers every twist in this saga as it continues to unfold in real time. Featuring exclusive interviews with his father, Randy Jackson; his ex-fiance, Shiloh; and acclaimed television journalist Chris Hansen; each episode puts Jackson's past under the microscope, dissecting his bizarre antics, vicious behavior and alleged predatory actions. The series also includes poignant interviews with other accusers, investigators and YouTubers, as well as vast archival content from Onision's own channels. The series explores the mystery, controversy and alleged misconduct surrounding Greg Jackson, begging the question: in a world abounding with influencers, what happens when one goes too far?

"Banana Power," the first 55-minute episode of ONISION: IN REAL LIFE premiered on Monday, January 4, 2021 on discovery+, the same day the streaming service launched. This episode made its linear television debut on Friday, January 15, 2021 at 10pm on Investigation Discovery as a series sneak peek.

The second installment, "You've Destroyed Me," dropped on Monday, January 11, 2021 on discovery+, with the third episode debuting one week later on January 18. discovery+ released a special episode, "Sarah Speaks," on May 27.

On Monday, July 5, 2021 from 9pm-Midnight ET/PT, Investigation Discovery aired the linear television debut of the entire three episode series, showing all three episodes back-to-back.