Where Are Ruby Franke’s Kids Now?

Ruby Franke, once a well-known family vlogger behind the popular YouTube channel 8 Passengers, captured millions of viewers by sharing her family’s daily life. For years, audiences tuned in to watch Ruby, her husband Kevin, and their six children navigate parenting, school, and typical family challenges. However, things took a dramatic and unsettling turn in 2023 when Ruby Franke was arrested on serious child abuse charges. Since then, many have wondered: where are Ruby Franke’s kids now?

A Family in the Spotlight

Before the controversy, Ruby Franke’s children—Shari, Chad, Abby, Julie, Russell, and Eve—were regular faces on YouTube. Their day-to-day routines, homeschooling moments, and family vacations were all part of the content that built 8 Passengers into a social media success. But behind the curated image of a happy, disciplined family, troubling signs had been noted by viewers. Over time, concerns about the strict and, at times, harsh parenting methods surfaced. These concerns came to a head in 2023 when Ruby Franke and her business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, were arrested on multiple counts of aggravated child abuse.

What Happened to Ruby Franke’s Kids?

Following Ruby Franke’s arrest in August 2023, authorities quickly stepped in to ensure the safety of the children. Two of Ruby's minor children were immediately taken into the care of child protective services after one child escaped from Hildebrandt's home and sought help from a neighbor. The child was found malnourished and with visible injuries, prompting police intervention.

As of now, here’s what is publicly known about the children’s current situations:

Shari Franke (Age 20)

Shari, the oldest of the Franke children, was already living independently and attending college at the time of her mother's arrest. Throughout the investigation and court proceedings, Shari has been vocal on social media, expressing relief that her siblings are now safe. She has shared occasional updates, though she has also asked for privacy and healing for her family. Shari has become a source of support for her younger siblings and has been involved in helping with their transition to safer environments.

Chad Franke (Age 19)

Chad, who moved out of the family home before the arrests, has largely stayed out of the spotlight. While he has not spoken publicly as much as Shari, it is believed that Chad is focusing on his education and personal life, away from the public eye. Many fans have hoped he’s found stability and healing, given past mentions of strict punishments during his teenage years.

The Younger Children

The four younger Franke children—Abby (17), Julie (15), Russell (13), and Eve (11)—were all minors at the time of Ruby’s arrest. After being removed from the home, they were placed into protective custody.

Court documents have been sealed to protect the minors’ privacy, but it's widely reported that they are now living with trusted family members and receiving therapy and support services. There are unconfirmed reports suggesting that Kevin Franke, their father, is working with authorities and child welfare agencies to provide care for his children, though his exact level of involvement remains somewhat unclear to the public.

How Are They Doing Now?

Understandably, the Franke children are believed to be on a long path of healing and recovery. Growing up in such a rigid and highly publicized environment, coupled with the trauma from the alleged abuse, has undoubtedly left emotional scars. Fortunately, updates from close friends and family hint that the children are now in safer, more nurturing environments and are receiving professional care to support their well-being.

Shari has encouraged followers not to speculate too much on the children’s private lives as they work through the aftermath. She’s expressed gratitude for the concern from supporters but continues to ask for space and time for her siblings to recover.

What’s Next for the Franke Family?

While Ruby Franke faces legal consequences and awaits sentencing, the focus for many has shifted to the children's futures. There is hope that with the right resources, stability, and care, the Franke children can rebuild their lives beyond the shadow of 8 Passengers and the trauma they experienced.

For now, the priority remains their safety, mental health, and the opportunity to live normal, peaceful lives away from the public eye—a stark contrast from the years spent growing up in front of a camera.