The Dear David Twitter haunting is one of the most well-known internet ghost stories, capturing thousands of followers with its ongoing updates and unexplained events. In 2017, Adam Ellis began sharing a series of tweets describing his experiences with a supposed ghost named Dear David, a child spirit allegedly haunting his apartment. His detailed posts, photos, and videos drew widespread attention and intense speculation from both skeptics and believers.

What set Dear David apart from other online tales was the real-time documentation and interactive nature of the story, with each tweet fueling more theories and discussion. The thread grew so popular that it inspired adaptations, including a feature film. The story’s blend of digital storytelling and alleged supernatural activity continues to intrigue those interested in internet folklore and the blurring of fact and fiction online.

The Origin of The Dear David Twitter Haunting

The Dear David haunting began with a series of tweets by cartoonist Adam Ellis, quickly gaining widespread attention. The story’s viral growth was fueled by Ellis’s detailed storytelling and the rapid amplification of social media platforms.

Adam Ellis and the First Encounter

Adam Ellis, known for his work at BuzzFeed and his online comics, first shared his paranormal experiences in his New York apartment in August 2017. He described paralyzing dreams involving the ghost of a child with a misshapen head, later naming the entity "Dear David."

Ellis recounted that the child spirit told him he could only ask "Dear David" two questions. If he tried a third, the ghost would become angry. This specific rule became a central feature of the haunting legend Ellis built online.

Strange occurrences in his apartment soon followed: unidentified sounds, malfunctioning household items, and Ellis’s cats reacting to unseen presences. These details set the stage for an ongoing, interactive series of updates.

The Creation of the Twitter Thread

Ellis began chronicling his experiences in real-time on his Twitter account, assembling them into a cohesive thread. Each tweet detailed new encounters—photographs of unexplained shapes, mysterious bruises, and videos of odd pet behavior.

He used Twitter’s threading function to keep his updates organized, making the story easy to follow for his growing audience. Over time, Ellis included screenshots, drawings, and even camera phone videos to substantiate his claims.

These posts were timestamped and presented in a sequential, diary-like format. The presentation invited readers to follow along as the events seemed to escalate, turning the thread into a public archive of personal paranormal investigation.

Rapid Spread Across Social Media

The Dear David Twitter thread quickly went viral, especially among fans of horror and the supernatural. Social media users shared screenshots, recapped developments, and speculated about the authenticity of Ellis’s claims.

News sites, including BuzzFeed, covered the phenomenon, amplifying its reach beyond Twitter. Hashtags and discussion forums dedicated to Dear David appeared on platforms like Reddit and Instagram.

Memes, fan art, and video breakdowns further circulated the story. This broad coverage and continual engagement transformed Dear David from a personal experience into a collaborative online legend.

Chronology of the Haunting Events

Adam Ellis’s experience with the “Dear David” haunting began with disturbing dreams and escalated into reports of physical phenomena and online documentation. His story unfolds in a way that connects recurring nightmares, unexplained events, and the emergence of a childlike ghost figure.

Recurring Dreams and Sleep Paralysis

Ellis first encountered the haunting through a series of unsettling dreams paired with episodes of sleep paralysis. He reported waking in the night, unable to move, while observing a child with a misshapen head watching him at the foot of his bed.

These incidents occurred repeatedly and often left him feeling anxious and fearful. The dreams became more detailed over time, with Ellis sometimes able to remember dialogue and describe specific actions. Sleep paralysis episodes acted as the entry point for most of his ghostly encounters.

Notably, he shared the timing and nature of these experiences in real-time tweets. This documentation includes dates, times, and descriptions, providing a timeline for these recurring and distressing episodes.

Manifestations and Paranormal Evidence

After the initial dreams, Ellis began experiencing physical manifestations in his apartment. He reported unexplained noises, objects moving on their own, and electrical disturbances. Items such as plants and household belongings would shift places without explanation.

Adding to the unease, Ellis attempted to capture evidence using photographs, video, and motion-activated cameras. He documented shadows, flickering lights, and even images that appeared to depict an unnatural figure.

Key phenomena reported:

Disturbed pets (especially his cats staring at the door)
Malfunctioning electronics
Photos showing mysterious shapes or blurs

These events contributed to his sense of being watched or pursued by something unseen.

The Ghost of a Dead Child

The focus of Ellis’s haunting centered on a specific figure: the ghost of a young boy he called "Dear David." Based on both his dreams and reported sightings while awake, Ellis described the ghost as having a misshapen head and distinct features.

Ellis claimed the apparition would appear late at night or during sleep paralysis. He also shared the supposed rules communicated during his dreams—such as only being allowed to ask the ghost two questions and never a third.

The identity and motives of Dear David remained wrapped in ambiguity. Throughout the Twitter thread, the child was consistently described in detail, reinforcing his presence as the central subject of the haunting and the emotional distress it caused.

Iconic Elements and Objects in The Dear David Story

Throughout the Dear David narrative, several physical items and animal behaviors became central to the haunting’s intensity. These elements created a consistent thread of eeriness and left a strong impression on those following the story.

The Rocking Chair Incident

One of the most memorable details is the old green rocking chair that sat in Adam Ellis’s bedroom. This chair appeared repeatedly in his photos and updates.

Ellis frequently described the chair as moving on its own, especially at night. Movement was often subtle—small shifts or changes in position that were caught on camera or described in tweets. It came to symbolize the presence of the ghostly child, Dear David.

At various points, readers noticed that the chair’s placement seemed to shift between updates, enhancing the unsettling feeling that something unseen was manipulating it. The rocking chair ultimately became an unofficial character within the haunting, representing the thin line between the ordinary and the supernatural in Ellis’s apartment.

Cats’ Mysterious Behavior

The behavior of Ellis’s two cats became a focal point early in the Dear David saga. They were repeatedly shown staring intently at the front door each night, particularly at midnight.

This pattern was documented with multiple photos. According to Ellis, the cats would gather at the door as if sensing a presence on the other side. Their actions suggested that animals could perceive what humans could not, a familiar idea in ghost stories.

Notable observations:

The cats hissed or acted agitated without clear explanation.
Unusual cat behavior was often timed with other unexplained events in the apartment.

Many followers cited the cats’ reactions as among the most genuinely unsettling moments of the story.

The Turtle Shell and Other Objects

Ellis also discussed a turtle shell he owned, which later became part of the story’s lore. At one point, the shell fell from its usual place without explanation, adding to the series of unexplained disturbances.

Other small objects also appeared to be disturbed or repositioned, sometimes in combination with the rocking chair moving or the cats acting restless. These subtle changes helped build suspense.

The emphasis on the turtle shell and similar objects showed how seemingly mundane household items gained new meaning within the context of the haunting. This made followers more aware of their own environments and fostered a sense of shared unease.

Paranormal Evidence and Documentation

Adam Ellis’s Dear David Twitter series became widely discussed because of the detailed documentation he presented as evidence. The most notable elements include a collection of strange photographs and home surveillance footage, including nanny cam captures, which fueled debate about the paranormal claims.

Chilling Photos and Videos

Ellis regularly posted photos and short videos he claimed captured Dear David’s presence in his apartment. Images shared on Twitter showed what appeared to be a malformed child-sized figure with a dented head, matching the description he gave of the ghost.

Some photos were taken in the dark, where the figure lurked in corners or by Ellis’s bed. Many of the snapshots appeared blurry, dim, or distorted, adding to their unsettling effect. Ellis sometimes used Polaroid cameras, arguing that digital manipulation would be harder.

Notable occurrences include a series of photos that seemed to show Dear David approaching Ellis while he slept. Video clips also captured objects moving inexplicably in his apartment, such as chairs rocking or a turtle shell falling from the wall.

Skeptics often pointed to photographic inconsistencies, but these visuals were a key reason the story gained traction. Ellis posted timestamps and sequence shots to create a sense of authenticity.

Home Surveillance and the Nanny Cam

To further document the alleged paranormal activity, Ellis set up home surveillance, including a nanny cam in his bedroom. These devices were aimed at capturing movement or apparitions when he was asleep or out of the room.

One frequently cited event involved the nanny cam recording his cats gathering at the front door at midnight, apparently reacting to something outside of the viewer’s frame. Another time, the nanny cam reportedly caught a chair near Ellis’s bed moving on its own, without visible cause or human intervention.

A table below summarizes notable surveillance moments:

Date Device Reported Activity August 2017 Nanny Cam Cats staring at front door September 2017 Surveillance Chair moving unassisted Various Nanny Cam Unusual noises and objects falling

Ellis posted several of these clips and updates to social media, inviting viewers to interpret the footage themselves and increasing both the intrigue and skepticism surrounding the story.

Interactions With Dear David

Adam Ellis documented several strange events as he interacted with the ghost known as Dear David. Encounters were shaped by clear patterns, including specific rules for communication and unexplained happenings that intensified overnight.

The Rules for Asking Questions

Ellis described finding out about the ghost's unique rules through a dream. He was told he could ask "Dear David" two questions but never a third—if he did, the consequences would be severe.

The rules quickly became central to his interactions. During several encounters, Ellis tried to communicate using these rules, carefully phrasing his questions. A summary of the pattern is:

Rule Description Number of Questions Only two allowed per interaction Timing Usually occurred after midnight Consequence for a Third Asking a third question invited a demon's wrath or negative response

The restrictions added a layer of fear to each encounter. Many followers on Twitter noted the strict adherence to the rules reflected Ellis's increasing anxiety throughout the story.

Supernatural Encounters at Midnight

Most of Ellis's reported experiences with Dear David happened late at night, often just past midnight. He recounted seeing the ghost in his dreams and sometimes claimed to witness physical phenomena such as objects moving or electrical disturbances.

Each midnight encounter seemed to escalate the haunting. He heard unexplained noises, saw shadowy figures, and captured images that allegedly showed the apparition of Dear David. According to Ellis, these supernatural events became more intense the more he interacted with the ghost.

The timing of the encounters added to the unsettling nature of the narrative. People following the story online often commented that the repeated midnight activity aligned with traditional folklore about spirits and demons being most active during these hours.

The Online Reaction and Phenomenon

The Dear David Twitter haunting became a viral sensation that captivated the internet, sparking wide-ranging discussions across multiple platforms. Social media helped spread the story quickly, drawing attention from both skeptics and believers.

Public Comments and Speculation

Many users followed Adam Ellis’s updates in real-time, leaving thousands of comments with theories and questions. Some expressed genuine fear, sharing how the tweets unsettled them at night.

A significant number of followers speculated about the authenticity of the events. Some dissected photos for clues, while others openly doubted the story’s veracity, calling it a hoax or a creative writing exercise. Social media threads frequently debated whether Ellis was orchestrating a viral marketing campaign or documenting a real haunting.

Public polls and reaction tweets often highlighted divided opinions. While some users praised the captivating narrative, others dismissed it as cleverly staged content.

Spooky Community Response

The spooky and paranormal community responded with strong interest. Enthusiast blogs, YouTube channels, and podcasts analyzed every update, sometimes even collaborating to investigate alleged evidence.

Fan art, memes, and dedicated discussion forums began to appear. Lists of “creepiest Dear David tweets” circulated widely, contributing to the legend’s staying power online.

A table of notable responses:

Platform Nature of Response Reddit Debates, theory threads YouTube Reaction, explainer videos Twitter Fan tweets, live commentary

Many paranormal buffs referenced classic ghost lore, comparing the Dear David events to previous internet hauntings. Fear and fascination fueled continued interest, keeping the story relevant for months.

Theories and Skepticism

The Dear David Twitter haunting has sparked significant debate about its authenticity and origins. Some regard it as a well-crafted fictional story, while others question whether Adam Ellis experienced a genuine paranormal event.

Belief and Allegations of Hoax

Many internet users believe the Dear David series is an elaborate hoax, citing the story's narrative structure and Ellis's background as a comic illustrator and writer. Skeptics point to the timing of events, well-edited photos, and staged videos as evidence that the haunting was orchestrated for entertainment.

Additionally, discussions on social media and forums often reference how the events conveniently escalate for dramatic effect. This has led some to compare Dear David to other viral internet stories, suggesting possible intentional fabrication. Allegations intensified when some images appeared edited, and critics highlighted inconsistencies or gaps in the timeline.

Supporters of the hoax theory note that Ellis continued to promote his content long after the story gained traction. They argue that media attention and potential commercial interest might have influenced the narrative’s creation.

Paranormal Investigation Versus Rational Explanations

Paranormal investigators and enthusiasts have offered mixed responses to Ellis's claims. Some analysts reviewed Ellis’s photos and videos, seeking signs of supernatural phenomena such as unexplained shadows or anomalies. However, technical reviews often found potential evidence of photo manipulation or ordinary causes behind alleged disturbances.

Several experts have commented that sleep paralysis, a well-documented condition, explains Ellis’s reported sightings and nighttime experiences. Rationalists also highlight the psychological influence of suggestion, asserting that viral stories can cause people to interpret everyday occurrences as paranormal events.

A comparison table may help summarize these perspectives:

Theory Key Arguments Paranormal Event Witness accounts, supposed photo evidence Hoax / Rational Explanation Photo editing, narrative control, psychological bias

These examinations underscore the divide between paranormal believers and those demanding more concrete evidence.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

The "Dear David" haunting quickly influenced how people share and consume online ghost stories. Its reach extended beyond Twitter, shaping trends in internet horror and inspiring adaptations in other media.

Influence on Ghost Stories and Horror

Adam Ellis’s "Dear David" thread set a new precedent for digital ghost storytelling. By unfolding events in real-time through text, photos, and videos, Ellis demonstrated how social media platforms could immerse audiences in the supernatural. This approach influenced a rise in serialized ghost stories and "live" paranormal accounts on Twitter, Reddit, and TikTok.

Writers and creators began experimenting with multimedia storytelling, blending reality and fiction. This led to an increased popularity in user-generated horror content and "creepypasta" threads. The narrative structure also emphasized trauma and personal anxiety, resonating with younger audiences who relate to mental health themes in horror.

References in Popular Culture

"Dear David" was referenced and discussed widely across podcasts, forums, and YouTube channels, often cited as one of the internet’s most memorable ghost stories. Its popularity helped bridge online storytelling and mainstream media. In 2023, the story was adapted into a horror film, further cementing its influence.

Table: Major Pop Culture References

Medium Reference Film Dear David (2023) Podcasts Discussed in horror-themed YouTube Explainer and analysis

The story’s connection to trauma and the haunting consequences of internet fame became frequent discussion points, with critics examining the blending of real experiences and fictional horror.

Film Adaptation of The Dear David Story

The viral Twitter thread “Dear David” was adapted into a horror film that explores the digital age’s intersection with folklore. The movie focuses on a haunting inspired by Adam Ellis’s original social media story.

Development and Production Team

The film “Dear David” was brought to life through a collaboration between several production companies, including BuzzFeed Studios. They recognized the potential of Adam Ellis’s story, which had gained widespread attention online.

Producers aimed to retain the viral essence of the original thread while expanding it into a feature-length narrative. Targeting a contemporary horror audience, the team placed emphasis on blending digital culture with supernatural horror.

A cast led by Justin Long, Andrea Bang, and Augustus Prew was assembled to capture the psychological aspects of the haunting. The production maintained an urban legend feel, leveraging the story’s internet origins for authenticity and relatability.

Directorial Vision by John McPhail

John McPhail, known for his work in genre-blending films, directed “Dear David.” He focused on translating the tense, personal atmosphere of the online narrative into a cinematic experience.

McPhail’s approach emphasized suspense through grounded character perspectives and unsettling visuals. He steered away from over-the-top spectacle, favoring a style that reflected the gradual escalation of events in the source material.

His direction aimed to evoke the anxiety of being watched and haunted in a digital world. McPhail balanced modern elements—such as social media use—with classic ghost story techniques to create unease.

Screenplay by Mike Van Waes

Mike Van Waes was responsible for adapting the story into a screenplay. His writing sought to capture the structure of the original Twitter thread while providing more depth to the characters and the haunting.

Van Waes reorganized the episodic events from social media for a feature-length format. He introduced new scenes and dialogue to flesh out motives and relationships, moving beyond the straightforward recounting found online.

The screenplay maintained key plot points from Adam Ellis’s tweets, but also integrated fictional elements for cinematic impact. This approach allowed the film to resonate with both fans of the original thread and new horror film audiences.

Real-World Connections and Aftermath

Adam Ellis's reports of supernatural events quickly moved beyond social media, drawing significant public and media attention. The story blended real locations in New York and references to Japanese culture, intertwining Ellis's personal life with broader cultural connections.

Adam Ellis’s Life in New York

Adam Ellis, a cartoonist based in New York, documented the "Dear David" experience while living alone in his apartment. The setting—a typical New York City apartment—added authenticity and relatability for many readers. Residents noted the frequent mention of everyday sounds, building quirks, and city-specific details.

The thread’s popularity led to widespread discussion in online forums, podcasts, and even mainstream news outlets. Ellis continued to update followers with photos, videos, and descriptions of unexplained phenomena.

Key points included:

His pets' odd behavior (especially his cats)
Disturbances like moving furniture and flickering lights
Frequent references to his city environment

Ellis later moved out of his apartment, attributing the change at least partly to the unsettling events he experienced.

Japanese Inspirations and References

The "Dear David" narrative drew on more than urban folklore. At one point, Ellis shared images connecting the ghostly figure to Japanese statues he encountered during a visit to Japan. He claimed the appearance of these statues bore an uncanny resemblance to how he imagined David.

This reference highlighted the global reach of ghost stories and their overlapping motifs. Japanese tales, which often feature child spirits and intricate rules for appeasement, parallel elements of Ellis's account.

Incorporating cross-cultural symbols, Ellis showed how legends adapt and blend influences. The connection to Japan added another layer of intrigue, demonstrating how modern storytelling can weave together city life and global inspirations.

The Legend of The Dear David Twitter Haunting Explained and Its Lasting Internet Impact