True Urban Legends: Candyman, with Ashley Flowers
Serial Killers
Deep Dive
Why did the Candyman legend gain popularity?
It gained popularity after the 1992 Hollywood film, which was partly based on a short story by Clive Barker and a real-life crime.
Why might the police have initially treated Ruthie Mae McCoy's call as a disturbance rather than a break-in?
The dispatcher reported it as a disturbance with a neighbor, possibly due to misunderstanding the severity of the situation.
Why did the police not immediately break down Ruthie Mae McCoy's door when they arrived?
They waited for more officers and a key from the building's manager, which turned out to be the wrong key.
Why did the police leave Ruthie Mae McCoy's apartment without further investigation?
Neighbors' statements and the lack of immediate action swayed them, despite multiple calls reporting gunshots.
Why did Ruthie Mae McCoy's neighbors stay silent about the incident?
They feared retaliation from the killers who might still be in the building and distrusted the police.
Why did the Chicago Housing Authority not address the issue of easy access through medicine cabinets?
They often waited until someone died before taking action, and even Ruthie's death did not prompt immediate change.
Why did Ruthie Mae McCoy's murder remain unresolved?
Despite two trials, there was not enough evidence to convict the suspects, leading to their acquittal.
Why did Ruthie Mae McCoy become a target for her killers?
Her improved financial situation and plans to move out of public housing likely made her a target.
Why did John Malkovich contact reporter Steve Boguera?
Malkovich thought the story of Ruthie Mae McCoy's murder could be adapted into a movie.
Why does Candyman target people who don't believe in him?
The reasons are unclear, possibly related to the violence that led to his and Ruthie's deaths.
- Urban legends often blur the line between reality and fiction.
- Candyman is a vengeful spirit who appears when his name is repeated five times in a mirror.
- The episode will explore the true story that inspired the Candyman legend.
Shownotes Transcript