The world of paranormal investigation has a new pair of unexpected caretakers: comedian Matt Rife and YouTuber Elton Castee, who have officially become the ‘legal guardians’ of the renowned Ed and Lorraine Warren’s extensive collection of haunted artifacts, prominently featuring the infamous Annabelle doll.
This surprising acquisition includes the Warrens’ long-closed museum and their home in Monroe, Connecticut, marking a significant moment for enthusiasts of the supernatural. Rife, a self-professed horror buff, announced the news, embracing his new role as “legal guardian” and “caretaker” of items many consider among the most significant in paranormal history.
Rife’s ambitious plans include the highly anticipated reopening of the Warrens’ Occult Museum, which has remained closed to the public since 2019. Furthermore, he intends to open the Warrens’ private residence for exclusive overnight stays, offering a unique and immersive experience for those daring enough to venture into its potentially haunted confines.
The comedian emphasized the profound legacy of Ed and Lorraine Warren, crediting them with bringing demonology and ghost hunting into the mainstream consciousness. Their pioneering work established a foundation for modern paranormal investigation, making their collection a pivotal resource for understanding unexplained phenomena.
While Rife and Castee are the official caretakers of the museum and its 750 artifacts, their guardianship is for a defined period of at least five years, as clarified by Rife on TikTok. They do not permanently own the items but are entrusted with their preservation and presentation, upholding the Warrens’ dedication to the paranormal field.
Central to this collection is the real Annabelle doll, a chilling artifact described by The New England Society for Psychic Research, founded by the Warrens in 1952, as “demonically possessed.” This iconic doll, securely kept within a locked case, continues to fascinate and unnerve those aware of its storied and terrifying past.
Adding another layer to the doll’s mystique, Annabelle recently embarked on the “Devils on the Run” tour alongside NESPR investigator Dan Rivera. Tragically, the doll’s handler experienced a sudden and unexplained death at a Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, hotel on July 13, further fueling speculation and dread surrounding the artifact.
This unique arrangement not only secures the future of a vital collection of haunted artifacts but also introduces a new era of accessibility for the public. The combination of celebrity interest and a genuine passion for the paranormal promises to bring unprecedented attention to the Warrens’ legacy and the mysteries they dedicated their lives to exploring.