Note: The following article contains discussion of sexual misconduct allegations that some readers may find upsetting.

Docu-series Surviving R Kelly Part II: The Reckoning has released its first trailer – and we also have an official premiere date.

Broadcast across three consecutive nights next year, the first episode will drop on January 2 on Lifetime in the US, with UK channel Crime + Investigation expected to air it at some point next year too.

R Kelly in 2017
Tim Mosenfelder//Getty Images

Related: R Kelly charged with more sex crimes over new allegations

In the trailer itself, we see new interviewees reflecting on their experiences with the 'I Believe I Can Fly' singer, as well as investigators unravelling more of this tangled web.

"When you trace what R Kelly has been accused of doing for years, you not only see a series of abuses, you also see a series of cover-ups," one woman claims.

With further material from psychologists, supporters and cultural/legal experts, The Reckoning promises "more insights into the ever-growing saga of the R&B singer, who is currently facing federal and state charges".

Gayle King interviews R Kelly on CBS This Morning
Getty Images//CBS

Related: Surviving R Kelly - a timeline of the accusations

Following the original documentary's debut earlier this year, The Reckoning also records what's been happening in the alleged victim's lives ever since they told their stories, with one in particular revealing that she's received death threats.

Surviving R Kelly Part II: The Reckoning will air in the US on January 2 on Lifetime.


Rape Crisis England and Wales works towards the elimination of all forms of sexual violence and sexual misconduct. If you've been affected by the issues raised in this story, you can access more information on their website or by calling the National Rape Crisis Helpline on 0808 802 9999. Rape Crisis Scotland's helpline number is 08088 01 03 02.

Readers in the US are encouraged to contact RAINN, or the National Sexual Assault Hotline on 800-656-4673.


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Dan Seddon

Reporter, Digital Spy 

Dan is a freelance entertainment journalist. Beginning his writing career in 2014, Dan's work first graced the pages of cult publications Starburst magazine and Little White Lies before moving onto Total Film, Digital Spy, NME and Yahoo Entertainment

In the film and TV universe, he kneels at the altar of Jim Carrey, Daniel Plainview, Mike Ehrmantraut and Paulie Walnuts.