The TNT series "Animal Kingdom" premiered in 2016 and followed the story of Joshua "J" Cody, who moves in with his estranged relatives in Southern California after the death of his mother. The show was inspired by a real-life crime family, the Pettingills, who were known for their violent criminal activities in Melbourne, Australia.

Is Animal Kingdom Based on a True Story?

The 2010 film that inspired the TV series was loosely based on the Pettingill crime family and the 1988 Walsh Street police shooting. The film's writer and director, David Michôd, told The Guardian in 2011 that he was inspired by the brazen and cold-blooded killing of two Melbourne policemen.

Who is Kathleen Pettingill?

Kathleen "Kath" Pettingill is a former brothel owner and matriarch of the Pettingill crime family. She built a violent reputation as a ruthless and influential figure in Melbourne's underworld in the 1970s and 1980s. She has 10 children, all of whom are either incarcerated, in witness protection, dead, or relatively unknown.

Who are Kathleen Pettingill's Children?

Kathleen has 10 children, many of whom have followed in her criminal footsteps and are incarcerated or in witness protection. A number are also dead. Her eldest, Dennis Bruce Allen, was a notorious drug dealer and mass murderer nicknamed "Mr. Death."

What Crimes Did the Pettingill Family Commit?

The Pettingill family has been involved in a wide range of criminal activities, including drug trafficking, armed robbery, and violent assaults. While the full extent of their offenses is difficult to quantify, their criminal record is extensive. One of Kathleen's sons, Peter, alone has been charged with more than 80 offenses, ranging from violent assaults and rape to drug trafficking, blackmail, burglary, and theft.

Where is the Pettingill Family Now?

Victor was shot and killed by an underworld hitman in May 2002, and Dennis died of a heart attack. Kathleen relocated to Venus Bay, Victoria, and still resides there as of 2014. She spoke out against the Animal Kingdom film in 2011, telling the Sunday Herald Sun that she didn't feel that Jacki Weaver, who played Smurf in the movie, accurately represented her.

Read more about the Pettingill family and their criminal activities in the article.

• Love Island USA Fans in a Frenzy After Spotting Mysterious Object on Floor
• Ana de Armas Breaks Down in Tears Before Filming Intense Flamethrower Scene in Ballerina
• Paralyzed Jiu-Jitsu Student Wins $56 Million Lawsuit Against Instructor

For more entertainment news, visit Olostars.