Is Tell Me Lies based on a true story? Real life Stephen explained

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“Tell Me Lies” Season 3 is currently a very popular show, and although it’s a work of fiction, it’s inspired by real-life events.

The new series Tell Me Lies premiered on Hulu this week with its first three episodes, delving into the complex and often turbulent relationship between Lucy Albright and Stephen DeMarco.

It started as a passionate connection in college, but their relationship quickly became unstable. What began with strong attraction eventually turned into a pattern of manipulation and unhappiness.

Tell Me Lies is a complex story about growing up, exploring difficult topics like self-discovery, unhealthy fixations, self-centeredness, and the challenges of being young. The author has revealed that the show’s manipulative character, Stephen, is actually based on a real person.

Is Tell Me Lies based on a true story?

While the show True Lies is inspired by a real-life relationship, it’s important to note it’s ultimately a fictional story. It’s adapted from Carola Lovering’s popular 2018 novel of the same name, and Lovering drew inspiration for the plot from her own past experiences.

Around the time the book came out, Lovering wouldn’t directly answer questions about how much of it was based on reality and was even told not to discuss it.

However, in 2019, she publicly shared in an essay for The Cut that writing about her difficult relationship had helped her heal.

Lovering points out an important difference: he’s been reluctant to discuss the ‘real’ Stephen, because while the character was inspired by someone, it’s crucial to remember the character isn’t simply a portrayal of that person.

Carola Lovering’s real life Stephen explained

Lovering recalls feeling both happy and energized just being near Stephen when they had dinner in New York. She was 23 and living at home at the time. She knew he was already in a relationship, and although it was difficult, she had come to terms with it.

She described a powerful and undeniable connection with him. She felt irresistibly drawn to him, explaining that being with him felt as essential as breathing – a natural, vital urge she couldn’t ignore. His gaze and voice held a compelling force she couldn’t explain, but couldn’t resist.

Similar to the story in both the book and the TV show, Carola first met Stephen in college. She was initially drawn to his energetic and relentless pursuit of her, and ultimately found his persistence to be romantic.

Even though she knew about other women, lies, and constant drama, Carola kept seeing him, and their relationship became a harmful, repeating pattern.

How did the relationship end?

The relationship ended when the man in question broke up with Lovering.

Carola went through a period of deep self-reflection, and this ultimately inspired her to write Tell Me Lies. She realized she needed to invent a character in order to truly grasp her feelings about someone.

Lovering described him as Stephen – a captivating and charming man who knew exactly what to say, even if he wasn’t telling the truth. He was incredibly alluring and had a touch that sent shivers down your spine.

She concluded by openly sharing that she once had a very difficult romantic partner, but ultimately believes the experience helped her grow and led her to where she is today.

Want to learn more about the show? We’ve broken down what happened to Drew in Season 2 of Tell Me Lies, and we also reveal who’s been contacting Bree. Plus, check out our calendar for upcoming TV show release dates through 2026.

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2026-01-16 18:19