Comedian Becomes ‘Legal Guardian’ Of Infamous Haunted Annabelle Doll Just Days After Mysterious Death Of Previous Owner

The sudden and unexpected passing of its previous owner has placed the notorious doll in the care of a new guardian.

Most people would never dream of getting near a so-called haunted doll, let alone taking responsibility for one. But in a surprising — and some might say downright reckless — move, a well-known comedian has not only acquired one of the most infamous paranormal objects in history but has also officially become its ‘legal guardian’ in what he described as an ‘insane’ announcement.

When it comes to horror icons, dolls are right up there with clowns in their ability to unsettle. Their eerily lifelike faces and fixed expressions make them a perfect fit for terrifying tales, whether in movies or ghost stories. It’s easy to imagine why they’re often seen as the ideal vessel for an angry or vengeful spirit.

If you’re into horror, chances are you’ve either watched or at least heard of the Annabelle films from the Conjuring universe. In the movies, members of a satanic cult use an old doll as a conduit for dark, paranormal forces to harm their enemies.

Most people would understandably avoid coming anywhere near the real-life counterpart of that creepy on-screen figure. But in a bold twist, one comedian decided to do just that — purchasing the actual doll that inspired the movies and stepping into the role of her new ‘legal guardian.’

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A post shared by Matt Rife (@mattrife)

Which comedian now owns the Annabelle doll?

According to the Independent, comedian Matt Rife shocked fans when he revealed on Instagram that he had bought the real Annabelle doll. He made the purchase alongside ghost hunter and YouTuber Elson Castee, calling the decision ‘insane.’

“If you know me, you know I’m obsessed with the paranormal and all things haunted.” Rife wrote, explaining how his fascination with haunted objects played a role in adding Annabelle to a wider collection of paranormal artifacts.

“You may also know The Conjuring films are my favorite scary movies of all time. So I’m incredibly honored to have taken over one of the most prominent properties in paranormal history.”

“Ed and Lorraine Warren arguably put demonology and paranormal into the mainstream and are the very heart of some of the most famous haunted stories of all time.”

Rife also shared that he plans to open the house where Annabelle is currently kept, offering overnight stays and guided tours of the Occult Museum. This will give thrill-seekers and paranormal enthusiasts a chance to come face-to-face with the doll’s chilling history — if they’re brave enough to take the risk.

How dangerous is the Annabelle doll?

While many fans were thrilled for Rife after hearing the announcement, others voiced their concerns. Their worries stemmed from a disturbing recent event involving the doll that has fueled the belief that it might be cursed.

Not long ago, paranormal investigator Dan Rivera died suddenly while traveling across the United States with the Annabelle doll on tour. His unexpected passing has led some to question whether the doll had anything to do with it.

The doll first gained notoriety decades ago for reportedly moving on its own, leaving chilling handwritten notes, and even causing what witnesses described as ‘psychic slashes.’ According to The Guardian, some believe Rivera may be the latest in a long list of victims linked to Annabelle’s sinister presence.

One paranormal investigator mysteriously died while on tour with the Annabelle doll Barry Chin/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

During his tour, Rivera had even offered advice to those worried about the doll’s alleged powers. He suggested closing their eyes and picturing a protective halo of white light surrounding them as a way to shield themselves.

Of course, there’s no official evidence tying Rivera’s death to a haunted, sentient doll. Still, much like the ongoing debates about alien encounters, many believers remain unconvinced by skepticism and continue to trust their own interpretation of events.