Falsely Accused of Blackface: The Acne Mask, the Mob, and the Fight for Justice

Holden Hughes was a 14-year-old freshman and football player at an elite CaliforniaCatholic school when he put on a friend’s prescription acne mask at asleep over. Three years later, in the summer of 2020 during Covid shutdowns andBLM protests, a parent obtained that old photo, posted it to social media calling it “blackface,” and organized a protest at the school, all within hours. By the next day, St. Francis High School told Holden and his family:withdraw or be expelled. No investigation. No hearing. No due process. In spring 2024, a California jury sided with Holden and set a legal precedent that private high schools must provide fair procedure before expelling students. Dr.Phil sits down with Holden and his parents, Frank and Wendy, to hear his story: what really happened that night, what the mob did to his family, and whether a jury verdict can give back the senior year, and the reputation, that was taken from him.

Thank you to our sponsors that made this episode possible:

You Can Do It Foundation supports meaningful media that reflects faith, family, personal responsibility, and freedom. Partnering with industry leaders, we create content that resonates and inspires. Learn more, donate and support the mission

Don’t wait! If you’re on Medicare or will be soon, reach out to ChapterCall(352)8450659 or go to to learn about your Medicare options and get help finding ways to save money.

Diabetes doesn’t wait. And the cost of waiting can be devastating. But there is another option you need to know about. Learn more

Experience a side of Dr. Phil McGraw you may have been missing as he provides critical information on some of the most important issues we face today. McGraw delves into the minds of the most exciting and accomplished people. From celebrities to ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances, to the world’s leading experts, every guest and topic is provocative, informative, and relevant.

Dr. Phil McGraw, one of the most well-known and trusted mental health professionals in the world, is the host of daytime TV’s top-rated program, Dr. Phil. This trailblazing and award-winning platform continues to provide the most comprehensive forum on mental health issues in the history of television. Dr. McGraw’s unique ability to take complicated and technical information and make it accessible and understandable to the general public has distinguished him both among viewers and within his profession.

Follow for more Dr. Phil & The Dr. Phil Podcast:

Dr. Phil Show

Apple Podcasts