The three-part documentary has left viewers gripped, with many unable to believe that it all actually happened in real life.11:02, 27 Jul 2026You really can't beat a gripping documentary. Not only are they hugely entertaining but they're also educational, and they give a platform to people who have gone through some pretty shocking things, allowing them to tell their side of the story.‌There's no shortage of them on BBC iPlayer, but there's one in particular that people are calling 'horrifying and shocking' with 'one twist after another'.‌The three-part series, named The Mother of All Cons, investigates the rise and fall of Believe in Magic - a children's charity that raised millions of pounds and won the backing of global superstars like One Direction and Little Mix.‌However, behind it all was a mother with a dark plan. There were questions about where the charity money was actually going, and the reality was 'more shocking than anyone could have imagined.'What happens in The Mother of All Cons?In 2012, 16-year-old Megan Bhari and her mother, Jean O'Brien, launched the charity Believe In Magic. At the time, Megan was allegedly battling a terminal brain tumour, but wanted to help other seriously ill children by 'granting wishes' and raising money for experiences they could enjoy.‌At first, it was a major success. One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson became a key supporter, hosting a star-studded Cinderella Ball that raised over £5million for the cause. Megan won several awards and was even praised by former prime minister David Cameron, as well as a whole host of other A-listers.But everything changed when a small group of suspicious parents began noticing some red flags in their behaviour. When a massive fundraising appeal was launched to send Megan abroad for 'emergency, life-saving medical treatment,' they began digging into the details.‌What they found sparked intense debate, leading investigators to track Megan’s movements, question medical claims and hire private detectives to uncover what was really going on.What really happened to Megan?The documentary takes a dark turn in 2018 when Megan tragically passed away at age 23. Her funeral was cancelled by a coroner's order for an autopsy, and the medical findings shocked investigators. The coroner revealed that Megan never had a brain tumour at all.What followed was a jaw-dropping turn of events that forced investigators to examine Megan’s medical history and the true nature of her condition.‌The documentary explores those disturbing questions surrounding her care, leading to a heartbreaking conclusion that shocked the public, and especially the supporters and families of the children that Believe In Magic had helped.Social media and review platforms have been flooded with reactions from horrified iPlayer viewers. Taking to X, one person wrote: "Absolutely sickening, how is that vile woman not in prison! Everything about this is so shocking, tragic & upsetting."Another reviewer said: "Finished #TheMotherOfAllCons - absolutely nuts. Jean is the lowest of the low and I hope her life is a living hell now."Article continues belowA fan on Reddit called it 'horrifying and shocking' while another on Mumsnet said: "I've just watched all 3 episodes - absolutely riveting! One twist after another, infuriating and heartbreaking at the same time."You can stream all episodes free on iPlayer.