Lifetime’s “Ripped from the Headlines” series continues to deliver spine-tingling cautionary tales with its latest release, The Dating App Killer: The Monica White Story. Premiering on February 14, 2026, this thriller dives into the terrifying real-life encounter between a Pennsylvania woman and one of the most notorious serial killers of the 2020s.
The Plot: A Digital Dream Turned Deadly
After her divorce and sending her son off to military school, Monica White (Lela Rochon) decides it’s time to focus on herself. She dips her toes into the world of online dating and meets Anthony Robinson (Jarod Joseph). He’s charming, attentive, and seemingly the perfect match.
However, after a birthday visit turns sour and Robinson begins displaying erratic, disturbing behavior, Monica’s maternal instincts and sharp intuition kick in. She manages to force him out of her home—unaware at the time that she had just escaped the clutches of the “Shopping Cart Killer.”
Meet the Cast
The movie features a powerhouse cast, led by an NAACP Image Award winner:
| Actor | Role | Character Description |
| Lela Rochon | Monica White | A resilient mother and teacher who survives a brush with a killer. |
| Jarod Joseph | Anthony Robinson | The charming but lethal predator known as the “Shopping Cart Killer.” |
| Trezzo Mahoro | Isaiah White | Monica’s protective son who is wary of his mother’s new suitor. |
| Princess Davis | Tonita | One of the victims whose story is woven into the investigation. |
| Spencer Graham | Casey | A key figure in the unfolding drama. |
| Shyinne Anastacio | Beverley | Supporting cast member in Monica’s social circle. |
The Terrifying True Story: Who is Anthony Robinson?
The film is based on the crimes of Anthony Eugene Robinson, who was convicted in January 2025 for a series of grisly murders.
- The “Shopping Cart Killer”: Robinson earned this moniker because he used shopping carts to transport and dispose of his victims’ bodies in remote areas or near motels.
- The Modus Operandi: He primarily targeted women on dating apps like Tagged, meeting them in motels before taking their lives.
- The Conviction: In 2025, a jury found him guilty of the murders of Allene “Beth” Redmon and Tonita Smith. He has been linked to at least five deaths across Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.
- The Survivor’s Edge: The real Monica White met Robinson in 2020. Her decision to kick him out after he exhibited “red flags”—including excessive drinking and inappropriate comments—is credited with saving her life.
Why You Should Watch
Directed by Elisabeth Röhm, this movie isn’t just a thriller; it’s a study in trusting your gut. Unlike many true-crime dramas that focus solely on the killer, this film centers on the survivor’s perspective, highlighting how Monica’s strength eventually helped authorities connect the dots to a monster.
“I don’t like when women reject me.” > — The chilling line Robinson allegedly told Monica during their first meeting.
How to Watch “The Dating App Killer: The Monica White Story”
Whether you missed the live premiere or want to add this gripping true-crime story to your permanent digital collection, there are several ways to watch.
1. Rent or Buy on Amazon (Step-by-Step)
If you prefer to own the movie without a subscription or want to watch it in high definition via Prime Video, you can purchase it directly.
Follow these steps to get it on Amazon:
- Step 1: Visit the official movie page on Amazon here: Watch The Dating App Killer movie
- Step 2: Log in to your Amazon account.
- Step 3: Choose your preferred format. You will typically see options for “Rent” (which gives you 48 hours to finish once you start watching) or “Buy” (which adds the movie to your permanent Video Library).
- Tip: Buying the “HD” version ensures the best picture quality for your home theater!
- Step 4: Click the “Rent” or “Buy” button. If you have 1-Click ordering enabled, the purchase will process instantly using your default payment method.
- Step 5: Once purchased, go to the “My Stuff” or “Purchases & Rentals” tab in your Prime Video app on your Smart TV, phone, or tablet to start watching immediately!
The Dating App Killer: The Monica White Story is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of modern technology and true-crime safety.
Want to see the full 2026 movie schedule for Lifetime Movies? We have it.