Netflix has released a new documentary series that it is set to become one of the most-talked about shows of the next few weeks. The series is titled “The Man With 1,000 Kids,” and centers around the case of Jonathan Jacob Meijer, who has donated enough sperm worldwide to father around 500 and 1,000 children.
While Jonathan Meijer, a YouTuber and musician, has denied that he can possibly have 1,000 children, saying that is “ridiculous” (but admitting that he certainly can be the father of around 550 kids), the series explores the consequences of his actions, especially for his children and their parents.
To him, being a sperm donor is a good action. In a 2021 interview with The New York Times, he said that he became a donor “out of love to help parents with realizing their dream. I cannot understand how anyone can only focus on numbers and see my donor children as a number.” But, why was he banned from donating sperm? Learn all the basics of the documentary‘s case.
What’s the story behind ‘The Man With 1,000 Kids’?
Jonathan Meijer was banned from donating sperm in the Netherlands in 2017 after fathering 102 children, exceeding the Dutch legal limit of 25 children by up to 12 different mothers. Despite this, he continued donating abroad. In 2023, a Dutch court banned him again after families filed a lawsuit, citing concerns about accidental incest and the children’s rights .
Why was Jonathan Meijer banned from donating sperm?
In April 2023, Meijer was banned by a Dutch court from donating sperm, facing a fine of 100,000 euros per violation. He was also ordered to instruct clinics to destroy his samples. The lawsuit, supported by families and the Donorkind Foundation, claimed his extensive donations violated children’s rights and could lead to accidental incest and social and psychological issues.
The court stated, “All these parents are now confronted with the fact that the children in their family are part of a huge kinship network, with hundreds of half-siblings, which they did not choose” (BBC) .
How did Jonathan Meijer get caught?
According to ABC News, Meijer was caught after mothers of his donor children noticed similarities among their children. Over 150 parents connected online and contacted the Donorkind Foundation for help. According to what a representative told the outlet, the foundation received numerous calls from concerned mothers worldwide and Meijer’s case is a big part of why they fight for stricter regulations for sperm donation — including a ban on anonymous donations.
How many children did Jonathan Meijer father with his sperm donations?
Estimates suggest Meijer fathered between 500 and 1,000 children globally. His offspring are found in countries including the Netherlands, Australia, and the United States, according to The Mirror.
Despite initially enjoying occasional contact with some families, relationships deteriorated after the 2023 court ruling and subsequent media attention. Meijer stated, “Emotionally, they feel more like my nephews and nieces. Otherwise, it would be too much for me,” he told the outlet.
