Ghostwatch Explained: The Haunted TV Special That Fooled Millions

This week on Killers, Cults & Queens, Cheryl and Nikki revisit one of the BBC’s most infamous moments — Ghostwatch. Broadcast on Halloween night in 1992, the show appeared to be a live investigation into a haunted house… but what viewers didn’t know was that it was entirely scripted. The result? Panic, confusion, and a scandal that would see the show banned for over a decade.

Join us as we unpick how Ghostwatch blurred the lines between fact and fiction, why it terrified an entire nation, and how it paved the way for the modern horror genre. From Michael Parkinson’s chilling final moments to the real-life consequences for viewers, this is the story of the hoax that went too far.

Expect spooky nostalgia as we explore the show that made Britain believe in the supernatural — if only for one terrifying night.

🎧 New episodes of Killers, Cults & Queens every week — hit subscribe and join us for more true crime, cults, and creepy tales.

👑 Hosted by Cheryl Hole and Nikki Druce

This weeks episode is sponsored by London Nootropics. Visit https://londonnootropics.com/ and use the code 'KILLERS' for 20% off your order to give yourself a boosted yet balanced day!

This week's episode is sponsored by Rupaul's Drag Race: Match Queen, the new mobile game where you can match puzzle, slay on the runway and be a queen. Download here: https://rpmq.sng.link/E53nq/4yfl/8554

Got a theory? Been lost in a rabbit hole? We want to hear from YOU! Email [email protected] to get in touch, or DM us @killerscultsqueens on Instagram. And follow Cheryl @cheryldragqueen and Nikki Druce @nikkimacabrelondon.

If you have been affected by any of the themes in this episode, please consider contacting the following resources:

The Samaritans helpline: 116 123

Confidential Emotional Support Line: 01708 765200

Hope Not Hate: 020 7952 1181

Exit UK: 0800 999 1945

Safeline national male survivor helpline: 0808 800 5005

Sexual Assault Support Line: 01708 765200

Sane mental health line: 0300 304 7000

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.