‘Shave and a Haircut’: Bloody Disgusting’s Bleeders DIEgest Episode #28 with Special Guest Sara Paxton!

Today, Bloody Disgusting launched its inaugural true-crime podcast, Insidious Inspirations! Created by Pacific S. Obadiah (SCP Archives, Margaret’s Garden) and hosted by Nichole Goodnight (The NoSleep Podcast, SCP Archives), this show will dive into the true stories, urban legends, and mythical monsters that inspired our favorite horror movies! The first episode uncovers the chilling and true encounter that inspired Hannibal Lecter.

Yes, Hannibal Lecter is based on a true story.

When Thomas Harris first published his novel Red Dragon in 1981, he probably didn’t know that it would give birth to a five-book series, iconic horror movie, and even a TV show. In 2013, 25 years after The Silence of the Lambs was first published, Harris released a special edition of his novel with an updated introduction. In the introduction, Harris admits that Hannibal Lecter is based on a real doctor, one he met almost fifty years ago. Harris doesn’t out his inspiration, instead only referring to him with a pseudonym, “Dr. Salazar.” Of course, it didn’t take long for an army of internet sleuths to uncover Dr. Salazar’s true identity.

Our story begins in 1963, when a 23-year-old Thomas Harris was working as a journalist for the pulp fiction magazine, Argosy. His editor asks Harris to travel to Topo Chico, a prison located in Nuevo León, Mexico. Harris has one objective, interview Dykes Askew Simmons. But before his assignment’s done, Harris will have an experience that lingers with him for the rest of his life..

This week, Insidious Inspirations dives into the chance encounter that inspired the infamous “Hannibal the Cannibal.” This is the true story behind Hannibal Lecter…

Check out the first episode below! If you like the show, consider subscribing on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts!