EP 146: The Exorcism of Ronald Hunkeler — The True Story Behind The Exorcist (Part I)

In August 1949, The Washington Post ran a headline about a Maryland boy freed from the devil's grip. That story became a book that sold 13 million copies, then one of the scariest movies ever made. Before the 360-degree head turn, there was a real 14-year-old named Ronald Hunkeler, a house in Cottage City, and a family willing to try just about anyone who would pick up the phone.

We start at the very beginning: scratching under the floorboards, a household whose beliefs about ghosts and demons didn't quite line up, and a reverend, a psychiatrist, and a parapsychologist who each landed on a different theory. Plenty of what's been passed around about this case holds up. Some of it was invented after the people involved could no longer correct it, and we have thoughts. Part II lands next week, curse of the Exorcist set included, so leave a light on.

"That's Genevieve. And that's Kaitlyn."

Sisters-in-law, best friends, former CNAs, and the sharp-witted duo behind Camping Is Canceled. Known for their mix of research-driven storytelling and unfiltered commentary, Gen and Kait tackle true crime cases (and paranormal rabbit holes) with empathy, curiosity, and a healthy dose of dark humor.

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