Ballerina Farm is a popular TikTok channel where Hannah Neeleman, a Juilliard-trained former ballerina and mother of eight, shares tips and tricks about managing her large family’s rustic lifestyle. However, there have been criticisms and speculations about the authenticity of the portrayal of their lifestyle on social media.
Hannah Neeleman, who won Mrs. American in 2023, has a background in ballet and a Juilliard education. Ballerina Farm, located in Utah, existed before the Neeleman family bought it in 2018 for $2.75 million. Some critics argue that the lifestyle depicted on TikTok may not accurately represent the challenges faced by those who truly live off the land, suggesting that the Neeleman family’s portrayal erases the struggles of others in similar situations.
The primary focus of criticism is on Daniel Neeleman, Hannah’s husband, and his family background. Daniel’s father is David Neeleman, an airline magnate who founded JetBlue and other airlines. This family wealth has led to skepticism about the authenticity of the Neeleman family’s rustic lifestyle, as they are associated with the “tradwife” movement on social media, which is linked to Christian beliefs. The Neelemans also sell meat and other rustic lifestyle items on their website, Ballerinafarm.com.
Despite the criticisms, the Neelemans openly talk about their affiliation with the LDS Church (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) and their commitment to a traditional lifestyle. While some question the authenticity of their portrayal, others acknowledge that the family may still work hard, even if they face different challenges and stakes compared to those who live a similar lifestyle without significant financial resources.
