Lifetime’s Give Me Back My Daughter, released on April 5, 2025, stars the incredible Gabourey Sidibe as Renee, a single mom who fights valiantly to reunite with her daughter, Imani. Renee is a hardworking single mom who gets hit hard when she loses her job. Bills pile up, rent goes unpaid, and soon she and her little girl, Imani, are out on the street—living in their car. It’s tough, but they’ve got each other, and that’s what keeps them going. Things take a brutal turn when Renee steps out for a job interview and leaves Imani in the car. The police spot her, and just like that, Child Protective Services swoops in and takes Imani away.
Renee’s not about to let that stand. She’s fiercely independent and hates asking for help, but she’ll do anything to get her daughter back. The movie takes you through her battle with “the system”—a maze of courtrooms, rules, and people who don’t always seem to care. Kelley Kali, the film’s director, doesn’t hold back. It’s raw, real, and shows a mom’s love in action. The settings play a big part too, making Renee’s struggle feel grounded and relatable.
At NetFilming, we’re diving deep into what makes this film so special—where it was shot, who’s in it, and why it’s worth your time. Let’s get into it!
Where was Lifetime’s Give Me Back My Daughter Filmed?
If you’re wondering where this heartfelt story came to life, the answer is Atlanta, Georgia. Yep, the “Hollywood of the South” strikes again! Filming kicked off in December 2024 and wrapped up pretty quick—likely before the year was out. Atlanta’s a go-to spot for Lifetime movies, and it’s easy to see why. The city’s got everything—bustling streets, quiet neighborhoods, and indoor spots like courthouses that fit the movie’s vibe perfectly.
Atlanta, Georgia
The crew used Atlanta’s diverse locations to show Renee’s journey. You’ll witness her searching for employment, encountering helpful individuals, and battling in court to reclaim Imani. The city’s got a mix of modern and gritty areas, which adds a real layer to the story. Plus, Atlanta’s got practical perks—tax breaks, affordable production costs, and a solid crew base. That meant no hiccups during shooting, letting the team focus on bringing this emotional tale to life.
Fun fact: Atlanta’s no stranger to Lifetime hits. Movies like My Fatal Social Following, Wife Stalker, and the Single Black Female trilogy were shot there too. The locals are used to film crews rolling in, and they’re pros at helping out. Gabourey Sidibe even shared how filming in Atlanta felt personal. As a new mom to twins, being away from her own kids hit her hard—and you can bet that fueled her powerhouse performance as Renee.
Meet the Stars Who Make Give Me Back My Daughter Unforgettable
Let’s dive into the talented folks who bring this movie to life. The cast of Give Me Back My Daughter is brimming with powerful characters, ensuring that this story resonates with you long after the credits have rolled. Here’s who’s who and why they’re so wonderful.
Gabourey Sidibe as Renee
First up, Gabourey Sidibe takes the lead as Renee. You likely recognize her from her Oscar-nominated role in Precious. She also received a Golden Globe nomination, and her performance in this film is truly remarkable. Renee’s a single mom juggling responsibility and heartbreak, and Sidibe plays her with guts and grace. Her real-life gig as a mom to twins adds an extra layer—she knows the ache of being apart from her kids, and it shows. She’s the powerhouse driving this story forward.
Cadence Reese as Imani
Next, meet Cadence Reese, the young star playing Imani. She’s Renee’s daughter, and wow, does she shine. Cadence has already tackled big roles in Rustin and Love, Brooklyn, so she’s no newbie. Her innocence is spot-on—it’s what keeps Renee grounded when everything’s falling apart. The bond she shares with Sidibe on screen? It’s the glue that holds this movie together. Her charm will quickly captivate you.
Walnette Marie Carrington as Kelly
Walnette Marie Carrington steps in as Kelly, and she’s got the chops to back it up. You might’ve caught her in Lifetime’s Dating Hell or shows like Doom Patrol and First Kill. She’s also been in Favorite Son and Let There Be Light. Here, she brings a solid vibe to the supporting cast, adding depth that makes the world feel real. She’s one of those actors you don’t forget.
Sean Anthony Baker as Jeff
Then there’s Sean Anthony Baker as Jeff. This guy’s been everywhere—Grey’s Anatomy, Chicago Med, FBI, you name it. On the big screen, he’s popped up in All Eyez on Me as Big B and A Question of Faith as Detective Boyd. In Give Me Back My Daughter, he’s part of the crew lifting the story up. His experience shows, and it’s a treat to watch him work.
The Supporting Squad
The rest of the cast is just as killer. Here’s the rundown:
- Kelley Kali as Felicia King: Yep, the director jumps in front of the camera too!
- Jade Fernandez as Halima: She adds her own flair to the mix.
- Christian Adam as Preppy Boss: Perfect for that slick, uppity vibe.
- Susan Gallagher as Mrs. Patterson: She’s got the gravitas to pull it off.
- Brian Kurlander as Judge Mcculloch: Brings the courtroom to life.
- Erika Page White as Attorney Bell: Sharp and spot-on in those legal scenes.
- Myles Truitt as Curtis: A fresh face adding energy.
- Chanel Abreu and Lakisha M. Thomas as Salon Patrons: They keep the background buzzing.
- Charmin Lee as Tatiana: A small role with big impact.
- Ashley Denise Robinson as County Attorney O’Hara: She’s all business.
- Allison Yaple as Young Social Worker: Fresh and relatable.
- Megan Gallacher and Chloe Keiffer: Popping in to round out the crew.
Why the Cast and Crew Loved Making It
For this team, filming was more than just a job; it was an experience. The cast and crew bonded big time, turning into a tight-knit family by the end. Lots of them hopped on social media to share how the heavy subject matter got to them. It’s a movie about loss, love, and fighting back, so you can imagine the tears on set. But that connection? It shows up on screen, making every scene hit harder.
Sidibe’s take on it is especially cool. She talked about how playing Renee while being a new mom herself was intense. Missing her own daughters gave her a raw edge that you feel in every frame. That’s the kind of real-life stuff that takes a good performance to great.
Give Me Back My Daughter Official Trailer
What Makes the Locations Special?
Atlanta’s not just a backdrop—it’s a character. The city’s streets and buildings tell Renee’s story as much as the actors do. When she’s pounding the pavement for a job, you see the hustle of urban life. When she’s in court, the stark indoor settings crank up the tension. It’s all about showing how “the system” looms over her, and Atlanta’s variety makes that work.
The moderate climate helped too—no crazy weather messing up the schedule. And with affordable resources, the crew could tweak locations to fit the plot. Need a rundown apartment? A busy courthouse? Atlanta’s got it. That flexibility let them build a world that sucks you right in.
Read More: Lifetime’s Sinister Surgeon: Where It Was Filmed and Who Stars in It
