Sweet Bobby: London woman’s nine-year catfishing ordeal unveiled in Netflix

Kirat Assi, a London-based radio presenter, believed she was in a long-distance relationship with a man named "Bobby" for nine years. But in a devastating twist, she discovered that she had been the victim of a catfishing scheme, orchestrated not by a stranger but by her own cousin, Simran. This shocking story has now been retold in Netflix’s documentary Sweet Bobby: My Catfish Nightmare.

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The deception began in 2009 when Assi received a friend request from “Bobby,” who claimed to be a cardiologist from west London. The relationship, strengthened by shared connections within the Sikh community, grew over time despite remaining virtual. Bobby frequently made dramatic excuses for not meeting in person, citing reasons like being shot, having a stroke, and even entering witness protection.

Unknown to Assi, the person behind the texts was Simran, who had been manipulating her for years. In a heartbreaking revelation, Simran eventually confessed to the scheme, leaving Assi devastated.

Assi’s story was initially shared in a popular 2021 podcast by Tortoise Media and has since garnered renewed attention with the Netflix documentary. Reflecting on the ordeal, Assi told BBC, “For those who think I’m stupid, that’s fine. I’m not dumb. I’m the one who’s chosen to speak up.”

Her story serves as a cautionary tale about the emotional toll of catfishing and the betrayal of trust.