Urban Legends
Luke Mordue examines the historical impact of the stories that haunt our society, tales that have gripped towns and cities worldwide for centuries as actual events - Urban Legends. First, hear the tales retold as short stories before delving into the history of the legend, dissecting its cultural significance, factuality, and origins. Released Fortnightly.
Kuchisake-Onna
Today we turn to one of Japan’s most enduring and disturbing legends, 'Kuchisake-onna', also known as 'the Slit-Mouthed Woman'.
This tale of a disfigured woman who asks a chilling question has stalked schoolyards, late-night streets, and the public imagination for decades. But beneath the horror lies a deeper story - one shaped by post-war trauma, shifting societal fears, and the evolution of urban myth in a media-saturated age.
We trace the legend’s rise from whispered folklore to national panic, exploring how stories like Kuchisake-onna take root, why they thrive, and what they reveal abou...
The Nain Rouge [Patreon Teaser]

A snippet of this weeks Patreon Exclusive chapter.
Lurking in the shadows of Detroit’s history is a red-eyed harbinger of doom, the 'Nain Rouge'.
In this chapter, we explore the legend of this elusive creature said to appear before disaster strikes. From the founding of the city to its moments of greatest turmoil, the Nain Rouge has remained a constant, now even commemorated in parades.
We’ll trace the roots of this peculiar folklore, uncovering its connections to French colonial superstition, Native American tales, and the city’s own evolving identit...
Men in Black
As we begin Season V, we explore one of the most unnerving figures in modern folklore: the Men in Black.
Join us as we trace the shadowy origins of these silent enforcers, following their evolution from early UFO encounters to government conspiracies and their place in pop culture. We’ll examine the strange patterns that link witness testimonies, the unsettling uniformity of their behaviour, and the psychological weight they carry as symbols of censorship, paranoia, and control. Blurring the line between reality and fabrication, this urban legend continues to haunt the spaces where secrets are meant to st...
Season V Trailer
Season Five of Urban Legends begins 14th May.
In this new series, we uncover the strange, the sinister, and the stories that refuse to die. From serpents and spirits to courtrooms and cryptids, each episode takes you deeper into the folklore, fear, and facts behind the world’s most enduring legends.
Written and narrated by Luke Mordue, Urban Legends blends storytelling, history, and cultural analysis to explore why these tales persist, and what they reveal about us.
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...Santa Stuck in Chimney [Patreon Bonus]

Modern Myths is a series running alongside Urban Legends; shorter chapters delving into smaller folkloric tales shared worldwide. To listen to our past episodes and to gain access to those coming on our next season, join us on Patreon by clicking the link below.
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Get ready for a festive, yet perplexing journey into the world of urban legends as we explore the mysterious tale of Santa stuck in chimney. Join us as we investigate the origins, variations, and enduring fascination with this quirky holiday myth.
The legend of the body of a man...
Krampus
Join us on a journey through centuries of tradition, mystery, and the darker side of the holiday season. Krampus, the horned and devilish counterpart to Santa Claus, has long been a figure of both fear and fascination. But what are the origins of this legendary Christmas creature? In this chapter, we will unwrap the layers of this complex folklore, tracing it back to its roots in European tradition and mythology.
Let’s explore Krampus's historical, cultural, and social significance, shedding light on how this icon has evolved over the years. We'll also study Krampus's modern resurgence in po...
A Stranger Calls
In this chapter, we answer the chilling call of a legendary urban legend that has left us with frayed nerves for generations: the ominous words, "The call is coming from inside the house."
Join us as we unravel the origins, eerie narratives, and psychological terror behind this haunting urban legend. We'll explore how it has become a timeless cautionary tale, rooted in genuine fears and anxieties, as it taps into our deepest concerns about safety, the unknown, and the places we call home whilst also studying the true crime cases that connect to its origins.
T...
The Dead Boyfriend
In this harrowing chapter, we plunge into the chilling world of a spine-tingling urban legend that has fueled fear and fascination - the horrifying tale of 'The Dead Boyfriend' hanging above the car.
Join us as we delve into the origins, gripping narratives, and psychological underpinnings of this enduring myth whilst also drawing connections to very real crimes committed over the years.
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If you have more information or a correction on something mentioned in this ch...Kidney Theft
Join us as we dissect one of the most spine-tingling and enduring modern urban legends, 'Kidney Theft'.
Let's delve into the chilling narratives, the origins, and the psychology behind this macabre tale of organ theft, exploring the various versions of the story and uncovering its roots in real-life fears and the fear of the unknown.
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If you have more information or a correction on something mentioned in this chapter, email us at luke@lukemordue.co...Killer in the Backseat
**Trigger Warning: This chapter involves references of Sexual Assault**
Join us as we explore the origins, the harrowing variations, and the gripping psychology behind the 'Killer in the Backseat'. Let's uncover its roots in real-life crime stories and how it has taken on a life of its own in the collective imagination, serving as a grim cautionary tale about the dangers of the night.
We'll delve into the very real fears and anxieties that the backseat killer story preys upon, and the psychological underpinnings of this urban legend. Is it just a story...
Bloody Mary
Join us as we plunge into the realm of darkness and superstition to explore the enduring urban legend of 'Bloody Mary'. Peer through the looking glass into the chilling world of incantations, haunted mirrors, and the enigmatic figure who haunts our reflections.
We'll unravel the origins of this age-old tradition, tracing it back to its roots in folklore, and exploring how it has passed from one generation to the next, leaving a trail of shivers in its wake.
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Aren't you glad you didn't turn on the lights?
Step into the dark, shadowy world of an eerie urban legend that has chilled many for years: 'Aren't You Glad You Didn't Turn on the Lights?'.
Join us as we delve into the unnerving stories, spine-chilling variations, and enduring mysteries behind this whispered horror.
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If you have more information or a correction on something mentioned in this chapter, email us at luke@lukemordue.com.Introducing: Weekly Spooky - Never Enter the Old Corn Maze on Halloween

As it's Halloween, and we're all looking for spooky content to indulge in. I've teamed up with the 'Weekly Spooky' podcast to Episode Share our shows to each other's audiences. If you like the episode, you can find more at ....
To listen to more, search 'Weekly Spooky' in your chosen podcast provider, or click here: https://open.spotify.com/show/0C6ejZjoPgtoXTC5MX4WB4?si=ad422ef8ce4c4518
Happy Halloween!
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If you...Folklore of Halloween [Patreon Bonus]

Modern Myths is a series running alongside Urban Legends; shorter chapters delving into smaller folkloric tales shared worldwide. To listen to our past episodes and to gain access to those coming on our next season, join us on Patreon by clicking the link below.
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In this special chapter, we're donning our spookiest costumes and lighting our jack-o'-lanterns as we explore the enchanting world of Halloween. From its ancient roots to the hidden symbolism, and the rich tapestry of folklore, join us on a journey through the history and mysteries of this beloved, but often misunderstood...
Poisoned Halloween Candy

**Trigger Warning: This chapter involves harm to children.**
In this chapter, we unwrap a notorious urban legend that has cast a sinister shadow over Halloween for decades, 'Poisoned Candy'.
Join us as we delve into the origins, fears, and dark reality behind this enduring Halloween myth, exploring how the legend of tainted treats has become a sinister undercurrent of Halloween folklore, examining its roots in real cases and the fears that continue to haunt the holiday.
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Spring-Heeled Jack
Let's leap back in time to explore the enigmatic history of 'Spring-Heeled Jack' to unravel the astonishing tales, enduring mysteries, and fascinating legacy of one of the most bizarre and elusive figures in the annals of urban legend.
We'll delve into the origins of this notorious character, unearthing the eerie reports of his astonishing abilities and unsettling appearances, which both terrified and fascinated the public.
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If you have more information or a correction on something m...The Vanishing Hitchhiker
Let’s unravel the curious stories, chilling encounters, and timeless mystery behind this age-old legend. We’ll venture deep into the heart of this legend, discovering its roots in folklore and how it has manifested in cultures worldwide, from spectral hitchhikers to phantom passengers. Is it a tale of wishful thinking, a message from beyond, or something more enigmatic?
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If you have more information or a correction on something mentioned in this chapter, email us at luke...Mothman
Let's soar through history to unravel the spine-tingling mysteries and explore the enduring fascination surrounding this enigmatic creature. We'll unravel the origins of this cryptid, delving into the eerie accounts of sightings that first gripped the town of Point Pleasant, West Virginia.
We'll investigate the theories and explanations surrounding the Mothman, from the supernatural to the scientific, seeking to demystify this enigmatic phenomenon. Is it a harbinger of doom, an alien visitor, or something else?
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I...Killer in the Attic
Join us as we unravel the terrifying urban legends that have perpetuated through time, from whispered tales of secret rooms to the unsettling presence of uninvited guests concealed within the walls surrounding us.
But the heart-pounding stories don't end there. We'll delve into the unsettling true accounts where these hidden houseguests crossed the line into real-life horror. From crimes that defy belief to the tragic tales of those who fell victim to the terror lurking above or below, you'll be riveted by the terrifying narratives of those who had much more than creaking floors to fear.
<...Bride & Seek
Join us as we explore the roots of this particular legend, examining its historical context and the regional variations that have given it life across different cultures and periods.
From ghastly games gone wrong to spectral sightings, we'll uncover the unsettling stories and theories around the ill-fated bride. You'll be immersed in a world of suspense, intrigue, and the inexplicable as we navigate the murky waters of this enduring urban legend.
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If you have more...Slender Man
In this chapter, we plunge into the shadowy depths of the digital age to explore the terrifying and alluring emergence of a new urban legend: Slender Man. Join us as we journey through the mysterious origins, terrifying tales, and cultural impact of this contemporary bogeyman.
Let’s dive into the disturbing stories and legends that have arisen around this faceless, tall, and slender entity, exploring how it has evolved and captured the collective imagination of the online generation, whilst also studying the psychological and cultural aspects of Slender Man's rise to fame, from the tragic real-world incidents li...
The Beast of Bodmin Moor
Join us as we venture deep into the idyllic landscapes of the UK countryside, where mystery and intrigue collide with untamed nature. A journey that will take us from rolling hills to dense woodlands, unravelling the stories of large, mysterious feline creatures that prowl the British countryside.
Let’s explore the enigmatic phenomenon of big cat sightings, with a particular focus on the notorious Beast of Bodmin Moor, one of the most famous big cat sightings in the UK. Is there any truth to this idea? Is it that farfetched to believe an animal, known for its pri...
La Llorona
Let’s journey through the ages to explore the tragic and chilling history of La Llorona. Join us as we uncover the origins and evolution of the weeping woman, a figure deeply rooted in the folklore of Latin America.
Join us as we navigate the shadowy depths of legends that span centuries, from indigenous myths to the present day, and uncover the haunting accounts of her apparitions. Let’s delve into the cultural and psychological significance of La Llorona, examining her enduring presence in literature, film, and popular culture; perhaps we can gain a deeper unde...
The Highgate Vampire
Nestled within the eerie confines of Highgate Cemetery lies the genesis of a chilling tale that has captivated the imaginations of enthusiasts and sceptics alike.
Join us as we journey through the mist-laden pathways of history, tracing the origins of this enigmatic legend. From whispers of a malevolent spectre haunting the tombstones to reports of bizarre occult activity, the legend of 'The Highgate Vampire' has cast a long shadow over the collective consciousness of Londoners for decades. From alleged sightings of a cloaked figure gliding through the cemetery's hallowed grounds to claims of ritualistic practices invoking the...
Body in the Hotel
Unlock the door to a world shrouded in mystery and terror as we check into some of the most haunting hotel rooms in true crime history. In this chapter, we delve deep into the unsettling and gruesome tales of bodies discovered in the most unexpected of places - hotel rooms.
Hotel rooms, typically a temporary haven for travellers, have been the backdrop for some of the most shocking and baffling true crime stories. Stories have been shared of bodies being found in hotel rooms by current guests for many years, and the question of their authenticity has...
Alligators in the Sewers
Join us as we dive deep into the murky depths beneath the bustling streets of New York City, exploring the mysterious tales of alligators lurking in the city's labyrinthine sewer system, an enduring myth that has both fascinated and frightened generations.
The legend of alligators in the sewers of New York City is a story that has persisted for decades, capturing the collective imagination. But is there any truth to this mysterious urban legend? In this chapter, we'll sift through the layers of history, folklore, and fact to uncover the origins of this chilling narrative...
The Smiling Man
'The Smiling Man’ was a short story that sent shivers down the spines of countless readers on Reddit, telling the harrowing encounter of a man who crosses paths with a mysterious, grinning figure during a quiet nighttime stroll. But what makes this internet legend so enduring and terrifying? In this episode, we'll peel back the layers of the story and its origins, diving into the psychology of a smile, and the creation of a modern-day urban legend.
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If...Teke Teke
In this chapter, we will trace the history and cultural significance of Teke Teke, examining how this legend has permeated Japanese culture and transcended borders to captivate the world.
Teke Teke, a figure that haunts the darkness of Japanese folklore, is said to be the tormented ghost of a young woman who met a tragic and gruesome fate. The legend revolves around her terrifying presence, her eerie cries, and her eerie pursuit of those who dare to cross her path. But where did this legend originate, and what keeps it alive in the collective imagination?
T...
Modern Myths. The Hodag

In our final modern myth chapter this season, we embark on a journey into the heart of American folklore to uncover the legend of ‘The Hodag.’ Join us as we explore the unusual origins, strange accounts, and the enduring intrigue surrounding this mythical creature that has become a staple of Wisconsin, described a having the body of a bull, the head of a dinosaur, and the spines of a dragon.
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Modern Myths is a series running alongside Urban Legends. Not all legends have enough information to justify a full chapter, but that doesn't mean...
Loch Ness Monster
Our season IV finale takes us deep into the dark waters of a Scottish Loch as we uncover one of the world’s most enduring mysteries, the ‘Loch Ness Monster’. Join us as we delve into the rich history, sightings, and everlasting intrigue through the mist-shrouded waters of Loch Ness, uncovering the origins and evolution of the Nessie legend.
Join us as we dive into the scientific investigations, eyewitness accounts, and modern-day expeditions aimed at solving the riddle of the monster. With it being so filled with theories, witness reports, and folklore, just what is it about the Lo...
Modern Myths. Kushtaka

In this strange chapter, we embark on a journey into the rich tapestry of Alaskan folklore to uncover the enigmatic and shape-shifting creatures known by local tribes as ‘Kushtaka’. Join us as we study what little we know of these elusive beings who can assume the form of humans or animals.
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Modern Myths is a series running alongside Urban Legends. Not all legends have enough information to justify a full chapter, but that doesn't mean they are not fascinating tales worth sharing. These smaller chapters will arrive in the week between Urban Lege...
Russian Sleep Experiment
This graphic chapter delves into one of the most haunting urban legends of the modern era, the ‘Russian Sleep Experiment.’ Step into the shadowy corridors of history as we explore the chilling tale that has captivated the minds of conspiracy theorists and horror aficionados alike.
From the eerie confines of a remote research facility to the harrowing experiences of the subjects involved, we piece together the fragments of a story shrouded in secrecy and speculation. Was it a government conspiracy, a twisted scientific endeavour, or simply an urban legend spun from the fabric of collective fear?
Te...
Modern Myths. The Good Samaritan

This curious chapter explores the enduring urban legend known as ‘The Good Samaritan.’ Join us as we unravel the narratives of kindness and generosity and the apparent unsung heroes connected to this enduring myth among public figures and everyday people. With it being assigned to several public figures over the years, is there really any truth to it?
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Modern Myths is a series running alongside Urban Legends. Not all legends have enough information to justify a full chapter, but that doesn't mean they are not fascinating tales worth sharing. These smaller chapters will arriv...
Windigo
In this fascinating, complex chapter, we journey into the history of North America to explore the haunting lore of the ‘Windigo’. Join us as we unravel the tales of this malevolent, cannibalistic spirit that has terrorised the imagination of indigenous peoples for centuries. We'll delve into the origins of this myth, tracing it back to Algonquian and other Native American cultures and uncovering its transformation into a symbol of greed and selfishness.
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If you have more information or a...Modern Myths. Boo Hag

Step into the mystical world of Gullah folklore as we unravel the eerie legend of the ‘Boo Hag’, a malevolent spirit that is said to prey upon unsuspecting victims as they sleep, draining their energy and vitality.
In this chapter, we will not only look into the psychology behind sleep paralysis but also delve into the origins of this eerie legend, tracing its roots back to West African traditions and its evolution in the Gullah culture of the Lowcountry.
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Modern Myths is a series running alongside Urban Legends. Not all legends have e...
The Green Man

In this mysterious and tragic chapter, we delve into the history, the tragedy, and the enduring mystery of the urban legend “The Green Man”, also known as Charlie No-Face. Join us as we unravel the stories and folklore surrounding this enigmatic figure, who is both haunting and heart-wrenching.
We'll explore the real-life events that inspired this urban legend and how it became a symbol of compassion and caution. You'll gain insight into the life of Ray Robinson, the man behind the myth.
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Modern Myths. The Scuba Diver

In this extraordinary chapter of Modern Myths, we dive into the depths of a bizarre urban legend that has puzzled and captivated imaginations for many years - the perplexing tale of a scuba diver found perched high up in a tree.
Join us as we explore the bewildering origins, baffling narratives, and enduring intrigue of this underwater enigma that defies logic.
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Modern Myths is a series running alongside Urban Legends. Not all legends have enough information to justify a full chapter, but that doesn't mean they are n...
The Spider Bite

This grim chapter unveils the mysterious and eerie tale of ‘The Spider Bite’, commonly known as ‘The Red Spot’. Join us as we explore the origins, hair-raising narratives, and the enduring fascination with this unsettling story that has sent shivers down the spines of many.
Join us as we study the origins of tales about individuals who wake up with a mysterious and ominous red spot on their bodies, only to face an uncanny and horrifying revelation, before delving into the psychology of fear and the timeless appeal of stories that play on our deepest anxieties, making you quest...
Modern Myths. The Jedi Religion

In this chapter, we dissect the confusion around the existence of ‘The Jedi Religion’, a belief system inspired by the iconic figures from the Star Wars universe. Join us as we explore the stories, experiences, and philosophy behind this modern and unique spiritual path.
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Modern Myths is a series running alongside Urban Legends. Not all legends have enough information to justify a full chapter, but that doesn't mean they are not fascinating tales worth sharing. These smaller chapters will arrive in the week between Urban Legends' new chapters, giving you new...
Spontaneous Human Combustion

This fascinating chapter delves into one of the most perplexing and chilling phenomena of ‘Spontaneous Human Combustion’. Join us as we explore the history, the bewildering cases, and the scientific mysteries that shroud this enigmatic occurrence.
Let’s clear the smoke as we delve into the scientific investigations and the quest for answers surrounding this bizarre phenomenon. You'll hear about the various theories, from natural explanations to the paranormal, that have attempted to demystify spontaneous human combustion.
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