How to watch ‘I Was Honey Boo Boo’ Lifetime movie premiere for free (2025)

Alana “Honey Boo Boo” Thompson is stepping back into the spotlight in Lifetime’s dramatic new biopic “I Was Honey Boo Boo.”

The movie premieres Saturday, May 17 (5/17/2025) at 8 p.m. ET on Lifetime.

Cord-cutters can stream the premiere free with a Philo or DirecTV Stream free trial.

Thompson became known as “Honey Boo Boo” following her viral appearance on the TLC reality show “Toddlers & Tiaras” in 2012, which led to her own spin-off titled “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo.”

Now, she’ll narrate her transformation from small-town child beauty queen to breakout reality TV sensation and the impact it had on her identity, her relationship with the public, and the blurred lines between child stardom and exploitation.

How to watch ‘I Was Honey Boo Boo’ for free

Even if you don’t have traditional cable, you can still stream “I Was Honey Boo Boo” live as it airs for free by signing up for free trials from streaming platforms like Philo (free trial) and DirecTV Stream (free trial). The movie is also available to stream on Sling, which offers half off your first month.

What are the differences between the streaming services?

Philo - This is the best name for budget live TV around. You get 70+ channels and unlimited DVR for just $28/month, and it’s currently offering a 7-day free trial. You won’t find a ton of sports options on Philo, but if you love entertainment and lifestyle channels like Paramount Network, Comedy Central, BET, and more, the price can’t be beat.

Read more: Why we think Philo’s free trial on its streaming service is best in class

DirecTV Stream - Watch live TV from major broadcast and popular cable networks. Enjoy local and national live sports, breaking news, and must-see shows the moment they air. Included: unlimited cloud DVR storage space so you can record as many shows as you want and stream them from wherever you go. DTV Stream starts at $34.99 per month after a 5-day free trial when you shop their customizable genre packs.

Read more: DirecTV Stream is offering lowest price of the year in a rare, limited-time deal

Sling - One of the best bargains in the live TV streaming market at $45.99 per month (half off first month). Sling lets you choose the channel lineup that best suits your needs, whether you prefer more sports, or more news and entertainment, and is available to stream on Roku, iOS, Apple Play, Xbox, Fire TV, Chromecast, and most app-friendly devices.

Read more: How to get AMC+ free with Sling TV promo, for a limited time only

What is ‘I Was Honey Boo Boo’ about?

According to the film’s synopsis per Philo, “Alana Thompson becomes a child star after appearing in ‘Toddlers & Tiaras’ and ‘Here Comes Honey Boo Boo.’ However, her world gets turned upside down after a series of family scandals and legal troubles places her in the care of her older sister.”

"Alana narrates the movie, offering a glimpse into what happened behind the scenes from her perspective. She reveals how her on-screen confidence concealed the harsh reality of constant criticism and family struggles, particularly with her mother, Mama June."

Watch the trailer below: