Ed Warren’s grandson, Chris McKinnell, recently recalled a harrowing incident where he witnessed his grandfather suffer a heart attack during an exorcism. McKinnell, who was mentored by Ed and Lorraine Warren in their paranormal work, shared his experiences on the Reel Appreciation podcast hosted by Maria Elizabeth Darnell and David Clair-Bennett.
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McKinnell reflected on one particular case that stood out to him, involving the possession of a man known as Maurice Theriault, also known as Frenchie in The Nun series. During the exorcism, McKinnell found himself protecting the bishop performing the ritual while his grandfather, Ed Warren, began to feel unwell just 10 feet away. Despite McKinnell’s grandmother suggesting a banana for low potassium levels, it turned out that Ed was actually having a heart attack at that moment.
This eye-opening experience left McKinnell with a lasting perspective on psychics and the paranormal. Despite his grandmother claiming to be clairvoyant, she was unable to foresee her husband’s health crisis. McKinnell emphasised the importance of relying on evidence rather than blindly trusting psychic abilities, as his grandmother taught him that even the best psychic is only correct 60% of the time.
When asked about balancing his work in the paranormal field and honouring his family’s legacy, McKinnell acknowledged the challenges. While he deeply respects his grandparents’ contributions to the paranormal world, he also recognises the need to carve his own path and not solely rely on their reputation for credibility. McKinnell values the lessons he learned from his grandparents but remains humble about his own role in the field.
The Warren family name holds significant weight in the paranormal community, given Ed and Lorraine Warren’s extensive investigations that inspired popular horror franchises like Annabelle and The Conjuring films. Establishing the New England Society for Psychic Research in the ’50s, the Warrens delved into over 10,000 cases, documenting their findings in various books. Ed passed away in 2006, followed by Lorraine’s death 13 years later, leaving behind a legacy that continues to fascinate and intrigue many.
Chris McKinnell’s firsthand accounts shed light on the challenges and realities of paranormal investigations, offering a glimpse into the complexities of working in this mysterious realm. His story serves as a reminder of the risks and uncertainties faced by those involved in confronting the supernatural, highlighting the importance of caution and critical thinking in such endeavours. Despite the daunting nature of their work, the Warren family’s enduring legacy endures as a testament to their unwavering dedication to exploring the unknown.