Producer Sara Johnson & Reporter/Writer Jane McManus were tapped to examine the impact & aftermath of Ray Rice's domestic violence incident three years later. The assignment required balancing brutal truth with empathy & journalistic responsibility - creating a narrative that was both unflinching & humane.

‍Editorial Approach
The team prioritized ethics & trust, treating subjects with dignity while centering survivor perspective. The decision to film in Janay & Ray Rice's family home reflected the story's complexity - acknowledging Ray's humanity while honoring audience perspectives on accountability & forgiveness. This wasn't about absolution; it was about examining what comes after.

‍Production & Protocols
The crew received guidance on trauma-informed language & sensitive questioning. Questions were crafted to avoid re-traumatization. Crucially, Ray was excluded from Janay's interview, giving her space to speak freely without his presence. The production also captured the couple with their children & Ray mentoring young athletes - highlighting the fuller context of their lives beyond one devastating moment.

‍Impact
The piece demonstrated how survivor-centered journalism can hold space for accountability, complexity, & the messy reality of domestic violence without sensationalizing trauma or offering easy answers.