In 2009, the world was introduced to the ‘inspiring’ story of Michael Oher through The Blind Side—the movie that tugged at heartstrings and propelled Sandra Bullock to an Oscar win. It’s the story of a poor, homeless young man named Michael Oher who is taken in by the Tuohy family, most notably Leigh Anne Tuohy, played by Bullock. The film paints a picture of the Tuohys as benevolent figures who help Oher overcome the odds to become a football star. But now, more than two decades later, a dark truth has emerged.

Sandra Bullock, Quinton Aaron, Tim McGraw, Lily Collins and Jae Head in The Blind Side | Warner Bros. Pictures

Oher’s legal petition has uncovered some uncomfortable truths about how the Tuohy family, while presenting themselves as saviors, may have been playing a different game altogether. In fact, the character of the lawyer we once thought was just...