Correcting Yvette Fieldings latest revisionist history over Most Haunted

 

By Jon Donnis

It is 2023 and for some reason I am still having to correct stories put out there about Derek Acorah and Most Haunted.

Yvette Fielding is currently on a Podcast tour as she tries to promote an upcoming Most Haunted Tour thing, and they have some big venues lined up, so are desperate to sell tickets.

I will address some of the claims Yvette made on the "Celebrity Catch Up: Life After That Thing I Did." Podcast.(No, I never heard of it either, guessing it is a show for washed up celebs, past their prime, desperate for any attention.), which are also being "picked up" by some tabloids. (These are paid for, placed articles in the papers, trust me, no reporter gives a damn about what a 90s Blue Peter presenter is saying on a podcast that no one listens too.)

"It used to really upset me. I mean, when we found out that Derek was a fake, I think I cried the first time because I had told him things about my deceased relatives and he told me things back," Yvette Fielding.

First quote I want to respond to, Yvette Fielding KNEW Derek wasn't a genuine medium from the very first episode, if not before, they hired him because he was charismatic and entertaining, and probably the biggest name on the growing psychic circuit at the time, he had TV experience under his belt. But the idea she "found out" he was fake, years after him being on the show is a nonsense. Especially when you consider on this very website we were exposing him week in week out. HE GOT POSSESSED BY A CHIMP IN THE FIRST EVER EPISODE!

"And also, being on camera and him, you know, going into these alleged possessions and becoming very threatening to me and the team members to the point where he'd actually hurt us and we just thought that, 'Nah, there's something going on,' this is so bad, so that was upsetting." Yvette Fielding.

Ok, this is a very specific claim and one I had never heard of before. In all the years of Most Haunted I never heard anyone say that Derek Acorah hurt them. I have heard about other cast members doing things, which I wont say here and now, but never Derek.

So I decided to find out, and who better to ask than a person who was there on nearly every shoot. Derek's wife Gwen.

I asked Gwen straight, was there ever any complaint or report about Derek hurting someone in mid performance. She replied as follows.

"I was at more or less every filming and there was never a complaint.  The possession stuff was welcomed and embraced because it pleased the audience and therefore pleased Living TV which in turn swelled the Antix coffers." Gwen Acorah.

I then decided to ask Gwen if Derek had ever been physically hurt by a member of the crew, her reply is as follows.

"The only person ever physically hurt was actually Derek when Stuart (during a live seance) threw a tumbler at Derek which resulted in him having a cut hand. It actually went out for all to see (I think Berry Pomeroy?).  Stuart claimed that a spirit had made him do it." Gwen Acorah.

On the Podcast Yvette also addressed the fact that OFCOM had ruled that the show was "For Entertainment Purposes Only" and that it was obviously "Not a serious investigation".

She said.

"Then the Ofcom ruling came in, they watched the show and, because of Derek and the fakery, they watched the show and they said, 'No, we've decided that is for entertainment purposes only.' That was absolutely soul-destroying for us because it is real, it's a real investigation, we don't make it as a television show." Yvette Fielding.

I need to make a few things clear here. When the show started it was myself and various members of the BadPsychics family that sent in many complaints to OFCOM regarding MH, our aim was for them to either label the show as Entertainment Only, or to have it taken off the air, as clearly the show was faked.

OFCOM replied to us, that it was OBVIOUS that the show was not a serious investigation, and that it was clearly for Entertainment Purposes Only. Not long after that, such disclaimers had to go up regarding pretty much anything that involved the "occult".One of the reasons was actually do to with the show that Most Haunted copied, the BBC Parody show Ghost Watch. Which although labeled as satire, a lot of people thought was real. People watching had various mental breakdowns, I think someone killed themself, and basically the BBC got into a ton of trouble, and replays of the show were banned for a long time.

OFCOM labeled the show as not real, because the show was not real. Yes Derek was a part of that, as he was the star, but the show was clearly filled with trained actors and performers. Jason Karl in series 1 was an actor employed to play the part of a parapsychologist, ironically he was the best one they ever had on the show. The same with Ciaran O'Keeffe, regardless of his real life PhD, he was employed to play a part. Yvette Fielding, also a trained actress.

Keep in mind that we were exposing the entire show as faked, not just Derek. We showed many times from our "Most Haunted Mole" videos, what was really going on. Yvette is clearly rewriting history here.

For example I released the "Mary Loves Dick" video. This was a pre-record that they actually aired in a fake night vision filter on the live show. I got hold of the original tape that included what went on after they had "cut" the scene.

Another thing that needs to be addressed is the false notion that Derek Acorah was fired from Most Haunted after the "Kreed Kafer" thing. This is simply not true.

"We tell people everything is real, then it turns out he was a fake, so he had to go." Yvette Fielding.

As I have repeatedly stated on here, Derek was NEVER fired, his contract was up and he was leaving regardless. And luckily for me Gwen Acorah just 24 hours ago wrote about that on her social media, confirming everything I have said for years.

Here is what she wrote.

"I would like Antix to cast their minds back to a date in October 2004 when a meeting was requested in Manchester by Derek’s then agent, Stuart Hobday, at the Antix offices.  

In attendance were Derek, Stuart, Karl, Yvette, Richard Wolffe and Clare Hollywood (both of Living TV).

The purpose of the meeting was for Derek to tender his resignation from the programme Most Haunted.  Derek was feeling the strain of being involved in the programme and no longer wanted to continue being part of it.  

An agreement was reached whereby Derek would complete one more series of the programme (Series 6) and 2 or 3 more lives, the last one being Halloween 2005.  

A further arrangement was made that a member of Livingtv staff would be present at every filming to give Derek peace of mind that he would not be mistreated nor undermined. Those four people were Richard Wolffe, Claire Hollywood, Steve Jones and another lady who worked closely with the Living TV production team. 

Richard Wolffe also promised to create a programme specifically for Derek and this is how Derek Acorah’s Ghost towns came about.  

Filming commenced but by the time Spring 2005 came around Derek was on his knees with stress and at Sinai House he walked out of make up and away from the programme for the last time.  

Claire Hollywood was in attendance and he told her that he was finished, that he’d do the last live at Halloween but that was it. 

Gordon Smith was brought in to complete a short series 7 to make up the shortfall of series 6 programme numbers." Gwen Acorah.

Now what Gwen doesn't mention here is that the Mirror Article with the Kreed Kafer thing was released the day before (or the same day) that the Most Haunted Live was to air. The Mirror article, by the way, which had stolen a LOT of material from this very website, without crediting me.

The article was ONLY supposed to expose Derek, Karl and Ciaran had worked with the journalist to give him the story. But the journalist wanted a bigger story so used information from BadPsychics to pad it up. (I was in contact with him at the time, unbeknownst to Ciaran and Karl).

Living TV producers were beyond furious, as Karl had basically flushed the entire show and format down the toilet just as a way to try to bury Derek as he was leaving, remember as Gwen mentions Living TV had a new show lined up for Derek. The hilarious Ghost Towns.

Living TV bosses made it clear that if Derek didn't want to go on MHL he didn't have to. Keep in mind that Living TV were also concerned that Derek would sue them for breach of contract etc. If Derek did not appear on the live show, Most Haunted was finished, that would have been the end of the show.

Amazingly Derek decided he WOULD do the show. And literally stand face to face with people who had just stabbed in in the back and tried to ruin his post MH career. By doing that he literally saved Most Haunted from being cancelled for good.

The irony being that Derek saved Most Haunted, after they nearly self destructed.

That is the truth. Now please don't waste your money going to any Most Haunted show. 

Unveiling the Haunting Enigma: A Review of the 1992 BBC TV Special "Ghostwatch"

As we mourn the death of Michael Parkinson, I thought we should take a look back at one of his most memorable performances. 

In the realm of horror, where imagination dances with the unknown, the 1992 BBC TV special "Ghostwatch" emerges as a chilling masterpiece that forever changed the landscape of televised horror. Blurring the lines between reality and fiction, "Ghostwatch" takes viewers on an unprecedented journey into the eerie, dark corners of the supernatural.

Set in the cozy backdrop of a live television program, "Ghostwatch" presents itself as an innocent exploration of paranormal phenomena, guided by respected TV personalities. Michael Parkinson, Sarah Greene, and Mike Smith lend their familiar faces to this ambitious endeavour, drawing viewers in with their affable charm. As the clock ticks closer to Halloween night, the show's façade begins to crack, paving the way for a hauntingly immersive experience.

What sets "Ghostwatch" apart is its ingenious use of realism. The show employs a mockumentary format, utilizing familiar elements of live television, including call-ins and on-the-spot reporting, to create an aura of authenticity. As the supernatural occurrences escalate, the tension mounts not only within the narrative but also within the living rooms of its unsuspecting audience. The blending of fictional horror with genuine audience reactions is a stroke of brilliance that induces a sense of shared fear and disbelief.

The narrative unfolds within a seemingly ordinary suburban household, once occupied by a troubled mother and her children, who are tormented by an elusive entity known as "Pipes." As the TV crew investigates, events take a sinister turn. Shadows loom, poltergeist activity abounds, and the line between reality and the paranormal becomes progressively more blurred. The anticipation and psychological torment that the characters experience begin to seep into the viewers' subconscious, fostering an unforgettable sense of unease.

"Ghostwatch" thrives on subtlety and the fear of the unseen. It masterfully crafts an atmosphere where every creak, every flicker of light, and every fleeting shadow sends shivers down the spine. The show's ability to exploit the viewer's imagination is its greatest strength, as it's often what is left unsaid that carries the most terrifying weight.

However, the audaciousness of "Ghostwatch" cannot go without controversy. The boundary-pushing nature of the production led to public uproar and claims of irresponsibility on the part of the BBC. The delicate balance between entertainment and deception became a topic of intense debate, shedding light on the ethical considerations surrounding horror and the media's power to influence.

In retrospect, "Ghostwatch" stands as a trailblazing example of its genre. Its influence can be felt in found footage horror, mockumentaries, and reality TV horror programs that followed. The way it exploited the intimacy of the home through television and blurred the lines between reality and fiction became a cornerstone for modern horror storytelling.

In conclusion, the 1992 BBC TV special "Ghostwatch" remains an enduring and enigmatic masterpiece that polarized audiences and solidified its place in horror history. With its innovative approach to blending the mundane with the macabre, it redefined the boundaries of televised horror and left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those brave enough to experience its haunting allure.

Watch Ghostwatch in full at https://amzn.to/3sfnBDR

The Truth about John of God: A Controversial Figure Unveiled

By Jon Donnis

Introduction

In recent times, the spiritual healer João Teixeira de Faria, popularly known as "John of God," or "João de Deus" has gained significant attention worldwide for his alleged miraculous healing abilities. However, behind the veil of fame and adoration lies a troubling truth. This article aims to shed light on the controversial aspects of John of God's life and practices, based on documented reports and investigations.

Early Popularity and Charismatic Appeal

John of God rose to prominence in the small town of Abadiânia, Brazil, where he claimed to channel the spirits of deceased doctors and perform miraculous healings. Thousands flocked to his Casa de Dom Inácio de Loyola, seeking hope and relief from various ailments. His charismatic appeal and alleged ability to diagnose illnesses without prior medical knowledge made him an attractive figure to many desperate individuals seeking a cure.

Allegations of Sexual Abuse and Exploitation

In 2018, the facade of John of God's spiritual persona began to crumble when numerous women came forward with allegations of sexual abuse and exploitation. These brave individuals accused him of coercing them into engaging in sexual acts under the pretense of spiritual healing. The testimonies painted a disturbing picture of a man who had abused his position of power and preyed upon vulnerable individuals seeking solace.

Legal Action and Investigation

Following the initial wave of allegations, Brazilian authorities launched a thorough investigation into John of God's activities. Law enforcement agencies searched his properties and discovered hidden rooms filled with cash, firearms, and personal belongings of his victims. The evidence collected strengthened the case against him, and in 2019, he was ultimately sentenced to 63 years in prison for rape and sexual assault.

Exploiting the Vulnerable and Peddling False Hope

John of God's case serves as a reminder of the dangers of blind faith and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals in search of hope and healing. Many of his followers had invested significant sums of money in his healing sessions, only to discover that their trust had been manipulated for personal gain. The promise of supernatural powers can easily deceive those who are desperate and willing to believe in miracles.

Questioning the Supernatural

While some followers continue to defend John of God's alleged healing abilities, it is crucial to approach such claims with skepticism. The revelations surrounding his criminal actions expose a pattern of abuse, manipulation, and the misuse of faith for personal gain. The exploitation of vulnerable individuals under the guise of spirituality tarnishes the reputation of genuine healers and discredits the important work done by medical professionals.

Moving Forward: Holding Abusers Accountable

The case of John of God highlights the importance of speaking out against abuse, regardless of an individual's perceived spiritual status. It also emphasizes the significance of thorough investigations and legal action to ensure that victims receive justice and perpetrators are held accountable.

Conclusion

The truth about John of God is a stark reminder of the dangers associated with blind faith and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals. While he once captivated the hearts and minds of thousands with his alleged healing abilities, his criminal actions exposed a disturbing reality. It is crucial for society to remain vigilant and question claims that seem too good to be true, ensuring that those in positions of power and influence are held accountable for their actions.

In a fateful courtroom scene on July 10, 2023, a blend of anticipation and despair permeated the air as João Teixeira de Faria, the infamous Brazilian faith healer known as 'John of God,' was handed down an additional sentence of 99 years. This severe punishment was a direct consequence of his abhorrent sexual crimes.

By Jon Donnis

The Demise of the TV Psychic Industry: The Vanishing of TV Psychics in the UK

Television psychics, once a popular phenomenon, have gradually faded into obscurity over the years. As we reach the middle of 2023, it is evident that the TV psychic industry in the United Kingdom has completely collapsed, with no TV psychics remaining on air. Let us try and explore the factors contributing to the downfall of the TV psychic industry and how societal changes and increased skepticism have ultimately led to its demise.

The Rise and Fall of TV Psychics:

TV psychics emerged in the late 20th century, capturing the public's fascination with the supernatural and their alleged ability to communicate with the spirit world. These psychic mediums gained widespread popularity, attracting large audiences through their shows, where they claimed to connect with the deceased, provide personal readings, and predict future events.

In the UK names like Colin Fry, Derek Acorah and Sally Morgan gained huge popularity, but as their careers came to the natural ends, either as their popularity plummeted or they simply died, there didn't seem to be anyone to step up and take their place.

Exploitation and Controversy:

While some TV psychics were rumoured to genuinely believed in their abilities, the vast majority were driven by financial gain, exploiting vulnerable individuals seeking answers and solace. Several high-profile cases of fraud and deception involving prominent TV psychics came to light, damaging the industry's already ropey credibility. The exposure of fraudulent practices eroded trust, even from the biggest of believers and raised doubts about the authenticity of these psychic abilities from within the very communities they served.

This very website was responsible for exposing pretty much every British psychic medium that gained any kind of fame from 2003 onwards. I would like to think we had a huge part in collapsing the industry through education, and exposing of the tricks to the masses.

Increased Skepticism and Critical Thinking:

Over time, society became more skeptical and demanded a higher standard of evidence and proof, thanks to sites like BadPsychics. The rise of the Internet and access to information allowed individuals to scrutinize claims made by TV psychics more effectively. Skeptical communities, including scientists, psychologists, and rational thinkers, actively debunked the claims of psychic phenomena, exposing the lack of empirical evidence supporting their abilities.

Evolution of Entertainment Preferences:

The advent of digital media platforms and streaming services provided viewers with a plethora of entertainment options. As audiences diversified their interests, the once captivating allure of TV psychics began to lose its charm. People sought more engaging and intellectually stimulating content, shifting away from the passive consumption of psychic readings and predictions.

Alternative Avenues for Psychic Services:

While TV psychics have dwindled in popularity, the demand for psychic services has not disappeared entirely. The decline of TV psychics coincided with the rise of online psychic platforms and independent practitioners who offered their services via the internet. These platforms provided unfortunately made it all the more easier for people to be conned, after all it only takes a minute or two to look online and find out almost anything about someone, and fake psychics have quickly become adept at doing that. Where as your classic psychic medium, like a Derek Acorah would rely on cold reading, as well as the odd hot reading, in general their "skills" could be taken anywhere, as they had the charisma and personality to glean all the info out of someone face to face. 

Do you really think some online facebook psychic would be half as good as they appear if they didn't have access to all the info on the internet at a moments notice?

Regulation and Legal Scrutiny:

In recent years, the TV psychic industry faced increased regulatory scrutiny and legal challenges. Advertising Standards Authorities and broadcasting regulators imposed stricter guidelines, requiring psychic claims to be substantiated by evidence. Legal frameworks aimed at protecting consumers from exploitation further restricted the practices of TV psychics, diminishing their ability to operate within the constraints of the law.

This is actually something I have written about before, and something that many skeptics refused to even address, as in some ways it acts as a defence to the TV psychic, I even had an article published in the Skeptic Magazine whereby I highlighted the restrictions faced by psychics, using a leaked contract I had obtained.

I posted a photo of that article on my Twitter account recently, go see if you can find it, and have a read for yourself.

Conclusion:

The demise of the TV psychic industry in the United Kingdom can be attributed to a confluence of factors. Exploitation, controversy, increased skepticism, evolving entertainment preferences, alternative psychic services, and regulatory scrutiny all played a crucial role in eroding the credibility and viability of TV psychics. In 2023, the absence of TV psychics on air is indicative of a society that demands more substantial evidence and critical thinking, and seeks entertainment options that reflect its changing interests and values.

Whatever you think of psychics and mediums, as far as I am concerned, not having them on the TV is a very good thing. I just wish there was a way to stop the Facebook psychic, but they make too much money for Zuckerberg it seems.

By Jon Donnis

Crossing to the Other Side with Mae Martin - Taskmaster Series 15 Episode 05

 

Crossing to the Other Side with Mae Martin - Taskmaster Series 15 Episode 05

The task is to create something fake, so Mae performed as a fake psychic medium.