Comedian Matt Rife, known for his stand-up and viral clips, has embarked on an unexpected new venture, acquiring the infamous Warren Occult Museum, a site steeped in haunted history and home to over 750 paranormal artifacts, including the notorious Annabelle doll.
This significant celebrity acquisition was made in partnership with fellow paranormal enthusiast Elton Castee. While they don’t legally own the entire collection, Rife and Castee have been appointed caretakers for the next five years, tasked with safeguarding the chilling exhibits within the former Connecticut home of demonologists Ed and Lorraine Warren.
The Warren home itself is an iconic location, having inspired horror cinematic staples like ‘The Conjuring,’ ‘Annabelle,’ and ‘Amityville Horror.’ Ed and Lorraine Warren played a pivotal role in bringing demonology and the paranormal into mainstream consciousness, becoming the bedrock for some of the most famous supernatural tales.
Rife confirmed the purchase and his role as guardian via social media on August 1, sharing his lifelong fascination with the supernatural and the ‘Conjuring’ films. With the museum closed since Lorraine Warren’s passing in 2019, Rife and Castee are now poised to reopen it for public engagement, including private museum tours, weekend events, and even overnight stays, catering to thrill-seekers and paranormal investigations enthusiasts alike.
A particular focal point of public interest, and indeed concern, is the return of the Annabelle doll. Previously kept under strict security by the Warrens, the doll recently completed a nationwide tour. Its imminent return to its original resting place within the museum is already generating significant public fascination and apprehension regarding its alleged cursed nature.
The doll’s dark reputation was further intensified by the recent and untimely death of Dan Rivera, a respected paranormal investigator who was leading the ‘Devils on the Run’ tour with Annabelle. While an investigation into his death is ongoing and no foul play is suspected, the incident reignited widespread fears surrounding the allegedly cursed doll, leaving a notable void in the paranormal community.
As of October 2025, visitors will have the opportunity to participate in what Matt Rife describes as a ‘full paranormal investigative experience.’ Guests will be able to explore the historic house and museum, utilize ghost-hunting equipment, and delve into the eerie origins of some of the most infamous artifacts in supernatural folklore, offering a truly immersive encounter with the unknown.
Rife has emphasized the historical significance of the collection, stating that ‘this stuff is real and should be handled with respect.’ He and Castee aim to transform the property into the premier haunted and investigative experience in the country, appealing to both seasoned ghost hunters and curious newcomers.
The acquisition undoubtedly marks a new chapter for the Warren Occult Museum, positioning it as a potentially sought-after destination in paranormal tourism. The lingering question, however, remains: how will Rife manage the profound responsibility of keeping Annabelle and her fellow haunted artifacts securely contained and respected?
