In 1992, BBC aired “Ghostwatch,” a horror mockumentary that caused such a stir it was banned after just one broadcast. The 90-minute special, set up as a “real” investigation into one of the UK’s most haunted houses, was hosted by Michael Parkinson. It blended fictional and documentary-style elements so seamlessly that over 30,000 viewers complained, believing it to be a genuine, terrifying paranormal event.
The mockumentary follows a news team investigating strange events in a Northolt, London home, where a mother and her daughters are haunted by a spirit known as “Pipes.” While Parkinson handled the studio commentary, reporter Sarah Greene explored the eerie scenes onsite, lending an unsettling realism to the fictional story. Originally envisioned by writer Stephen Volk as a six-part series, the final cut was condensed to a single episode – and its ban cemented its cult status.
The horror of “Ghostwatch” was so intense that some viewers claim they’ve “wet the bed” even decades later. Clips have recently resurfaced on TikTok, with comments from viewers who recall sleepless nights following the show’s Halloween broadcast. Tragically, the show’s eerie influence went beyond fright; some believe it contributed to the suicide of an 18-year-old viewer who reportedly became “entranced” by the ghostly tales.
“Ghostwatch” continues to resonate as a horror classic that walked the line between drama and documentary, leaving a legacy that still gives viewers chills.
