Show Notes
Nick Simon talks with Mike about What Happened to Doris? (2026), his film revisiting the real case that inspired The Entity (1982). Doris Bither was a Culver City single mother whose reports of violent supernatural attacks drew paranormal investigators from UCLA and became one of the most documented hauntings in American history. Simon developed the project with the blessing of Doris's real son, Brian, adjusting details to honor her experience while centering the story on her fight to be believed rather than the haunting itself.
Simon talks about pursuing Heather Graham for the lead with a personal letter laying out his vision, working with Mimi Rogers and the cast, and building scares practically on an indie budget with creature designers Mario Torres Jr. and Roxanne McDaniel. Mike and Simon get into what drew him to Doris's story specifically, and why he wanted her perspective, not the entity's, to drive the film.
What Happened to Doris? premiered at Fantastic Fest 2026.
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