New Biopic ‘Swiped’ Highlights Whitney Wolfe Herd’s Tech Journey

LOS ANGELES, CA — In a new biopic, actress Lily James portrays Whitney Wolfe Herd, the controversial co-founder of Tinder and creator of Bumble, in the film ‘Swiped’, released on Hulu on September 19, 2025. The movie chronicles Wolfe Herd’s journey through the male-dominated tech industry as she navigates challenges, including sexism and harassment.

The story starts in 2012 when Wolfe Herd, seeking to make a difference, pitches a company aimed at connecting volunteers with orphanages. However, her ideas are consistently dismissed by potential investors at a Los Angeles startup mixer. Eventually, she attracts Sean Rad, founder of Cardify, who offers her a position within his company.

With quirky determination, Wolfe Herd helps develop a dating app, which she names Tinder. Though she proposes the name, her male colleagues ultimately receive the credit. As tensions rise, Wolfe Herd finds herself involved in a toxic romantic relationship within the office that culminates in her being forced out after a scandal.

After facing public scrutiny and a leaked lawsuit against Tinder, Wolfe Herd re-emerges by founding Bumble, an app designed to empower women to take control of their dating experiences. The film touches upon her challenges and triumphs, including her fight against the negative consequences of misogyny in the tech world.

Despite the film’s empowering narrative, critics note that ‘Swiped’ often relies on formulaic tropes, lacking the depth to fully capture Wolfe Herd’s complex journey. Some scenes, such as Wolfe Herd’s emotional breakdowns due to workplace harassment, are portrayed but feel more like scripted speeches than genuine experiences.

The film highlights Wolfe Herd’s ultimate success as she becomes the youngest self-made female billionaire, but fails to delve into the societal implications of her rise. As humor mixes with serious themes, ‘Swiped’ reflects both disdain and admiration for the tech world.

As the film concludes, Wolfe Herd gains control of Bumble but remains embroiled in the industry’s dark side, embodied by her relationship with her investor. ‘Swiped’ ultimately invites viewers to reflect on the balance between ambition and the cost it carries, leading to discussions about workplace dynamics in tech.

‘Swiped’ is currently streaming on Hulu, with James’s performance gaining attention for its reflection on female empowerment.