Leaving Neverland
Definition
A 2019 HBO documentary directed by Dan Reed, featuring detailed accounts from Wade Robson and James Safechuck alleging childhood sexual abuse by Michael Jackson at his Neverland Ranch.
A metaphorical reference to departing from a state of perpetual childhood innocence, drawing from J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan where Neverland is the island of eternal youth, often invoked in discussions of growing up or facing harsh realities.
Examples
After bingeing Leaving Neverland, I double-checked the guest list for my next slumber party.
She's finally leaving Neverland behind, trading fairy dust for adulting spreadsheets and regret.
Leaving Neverland dropped like a mic at a moonwalk convention – pure controversy.
Watching Leaving Neverland made me rethink inviting the King of Pop to family game night.