Lots of questions have come up about Hero so I thought I’d try and answer some of those I have come across. Thank you for all your comments and I’m pleased the show struck a chord.
You don’t say ‘no actors or stooges are used in this show’ – Was Matt an actor?
I didn’t give that old disclaimer because the show’s chock-full of actors, and quite openly so. I haven’t said that whenever actors are openly used: it wouldn’t make any sense and to qualify it would be convoluted and verbose. So instead we explain who Matt is and that he has no idea these things are going on or that he’s being filmed etc. These things cannot be lies, as aside from the repugnance of using ‘fake’ participants and how on earth you’d secure the silence of those who knew them in real life, it is a huge legal no-no. Every word of voice-over script and picture is analysed by the C4 lawyer to make sure there is no misleading the viewer. A magic trick is different: there is licence to deceive, and a sense of theatre, but even that nowadays is tricky. Its a moot point if you can even say ’This is an ordinary pack of cards’ any more on UK TV if it isn’t. But in something like this, which is not presented as a trick, to pretend Matt was real, or ignorant of the process when he wasn’t, is simply not an option. Even if I wanted it to be, which I don’t. I have NEVER used a ‘stooge’ (someone playing along and pretending to be fooled etc) in 10 years of TV work, despite the protestations of people who are convinced there’s no other method to be employed.
Adam: On another note, how did Matt get away with not paying for taxi, and just a handshake?
A few people have asked this: I thought it was clear that we had sent the cab. And his life is being changed – some things like this didn’t seem worth spending a lot of time explaining through in detail. The cabbie played it to Matt as if he had just been booked, pre-paid and didn’t ask for any money at the end. Matt, with the idea in his head of breaking into a policeman’s house, took the bait of a free ride and went with it.
Graham: My Gf, a big non believer (but yet believes random psychics and mediums) found it hard to believe the sleeping but walking around stages…. and stormed out. Could that be explained ? was it part hypnosis?
Ah, now if she had seen Enigma she’d have seen me do this every night on stage. It depends on how you define hypnosis, but yes, you can call it that. It’s really not a big deal if you understand the process and can be creative with it. As I said in the show, one feature of Matt’s personality one - an important one for me – is that he is suggestible. He wakes up, confused and responsive, hearing my voice in his room telling him he’s dreaming and still asleep. As long as the person is suggestible and already responsive to me (a fan, or an audience member at a stage show), it’s a very easy way of doing it. If he had come down more awake I would have shifted his state in the garden. I didn’t know for sure how he would react that first night, but we spoke to Liv the next morning and he had had no memory of the event. The second night was then even easier as he had learnt from the first night.
Chris: why in the ‘croc’ sequence was it raining your side and not Matt’s? Also, when his phone was stolen, and seeing he works in insurance, would he not have had to contact the real police to get a reference number for an insurance claim? And, really, he wore GStar pretty much every day for a month!
The brief, light shower that happened that night was a bit of a pain but ultimately looked so odd that we liked it for this dreamy sequence. It’s raining on both of us but I’m backlit and he’s not, so it’s much harder to see the rain on Matt. Rather than edit it out, or re-film anything, we thought it looked weird in a good way and left it. Matt’s phone was handed back to him after the petrol station sequence as if it had been found – obviously we couldn’t leave him without it or have him going to the real police. We were going to include this to answer precisely that question but when you’re trying to fit so much in you have to leave out what doesn’t directly tell the story. Equally, the ‘inspiring’ talk with the van driver was much longer – maybe 10 minutes or so – but that’s not something you can sit through on TV. Things get edited down. As for his clothing, yes, he wore what he wore. It was amusing to us too. He dresses much cooler than me so I can’t comment.
Ben: There was one moment when I thought you had gone a little senile, when you laid him across the train track,
Needless to say, this was all very controlled, unbeknownst to Matt, so there was no way he would have been hurt. What was important is that the fear was real to him.
Matt: i dont care what anyone says if you see smoke coming under a door you would not just sit there, you would at least try and get the attention of others in the room
Nope, this is a classic experiment. Have a Google for Bystander Experiment. The more people there, the less likely you are to take action. The research was triggered by a famous – (if now misrepresented case) – where lots of witnesses saw a woman raped and murdered in several stages and did nothing. Awful.
Penny: I watch all of your stuff on tv as i think your a total genius and would love to be involved so i sent off for an application form to take part in future shows and the reply back is just a trailer for Hero….. help?
There has been a fake Facebook page posing as mine asking people to apply for future shows, but it has nothing to do with us. As with Hero, I make announcements here or on the Blog. (Or sometimes they’re done in papers without my name on and you don’t know you’re applying for my show…)
Andrew: just 2 things don’t quite add up. 1. If he was a bystander that never put himself forward for anything, why would he apply for a game show? and 2. Flight simulator graphics are not very good, it would be impossible to not notice your not flying a real plane…
Bystander behaviour is to do with how we behave in emergencies. Most people fall into the same pattern, regardless of what we do in the rest of life. As for the flight simulator, you’re wrong in this case. This is the latest in professional training sims and utterly convincing (particularly at the dusk setting which is why we timed the flight at dusk). They’re based at Southampton and if you want to pay about 20k an hour you should have a go. Don’t confuse them with noisy fairground sims.
Brett: He got on the plane it was bright sunshine…he landed it in pitch dark even though it was a short flight. Surely he would have thought that was a little strange?
It wasn’t as dark through the sim ‘window’ as it looked on TV. It was all around dusk, and the plane was in the air for quite a while before he would have entered the cockpit. You’ll see when we get off the plane with Matt in a wheelchair that it’s getting dark.
Ian: I was particularly struck by two movie references. When you talked to Matt in his garden and gave him the countdown, he goes to a golf course the next day… this is very similar to a scene from ‘Donnie Darko’ except that the main character actually wakes up on a golf course after being given his countdown while in a dream-like state. The second was of course ‘Fight Club’ in which Tyler Durden pretends to hold up a convenience store employee in order to shock him into pursuing what he really wants to do with his life. Were those parts of ‘Hero’ inspired by these movies?
And then some. The Game, even Watchmen were in there. All big inspirations – especially Fight Club and (for one core speech) Watchmen. Iain and I who devised the show were all very chuffed when Matt came into the garden in a hoodie… pure Donnie.
B: I’m an Airline Pilot for a living and can say the timing between landing that aircraft and getting to the simulator hall where those simulators are base is a long stretch. The cabin crew in the shots had time to change clothes, as did Derron. The sim cued up etc. I just can’t buy into it…would require the guy to be tranqualised no hypnotised due to the length of journey and disruption… other irregularities. A lot of them in the simulator.
Not sure what you mean. That wasn’t live - plenty of time elapsed between the two, with Matt soundly asleep. We were waiting for quite a while in fact for the sim to be fully ready, following problems that day. As for how long he can be hypnotised, the longest I’ve kept someone under was 13 hours on and off a plane to Marrakech for a previous show. Perfectly doable. Matt was looked after in shifts by me, Iain and a paremedic who stayed with us at all times. Both Matt and the Marrakech guy were taken off to the loo at one point, and woke up just a little and for long enough to do that, and then straight back to sleep with no awareness of having done that. They key is to get someone who sleeps deeply at night. Once in the sim he was talked down authentically by a real air traffic controller, and gained in confidence as he went along, although it all took a lot longer than the few minutes that section was shrunk down to in the show. So you’re seeing an edited version in the sim, so yes, it doesn’t reflect real time.
Keren: can you tell me when its going to be repeated as i missed it due to work and am desperate to see it.
Bless you, thank you. It’s on 4OD, which you can access through the C4 website. I have no idea when it’ll be on TV again. Maybe E4?
Claire: I wasnt conviced a guy like ‘Matt’ would actually enter the police officer’s ‘home’ – and not wonder about an alarm system.
He may have done, I don’t know. But at some level his unconscious would have felt it was the ‘right’ thing to do, as you’ll remember I had laid it all in during the night with the crocodile. So I was counting on it feeling somehow right to him. This was about the level of influence that I could have: always leaving it to him to make the decisions, but planting the idea to nudge him in that direction or making an idea appealing. If people don’t understand why he did these things, then they have missed that point.
Jon: the way Matt found himself getting into the ‘situations’ and how he got out of them was very contrived and controlled. And because we didn’t get to see them, we naturally doubt them.
Sure. Of course, a large part of what I do is magic tricks, so some people are going to be suspicious. In my mind there’s a huge difference between performing a trick and doing something like Hero, but that might just be me. A trick is supposed to be a trick, and something like Hero has to be real or else it’s pointless. The situations are of course set up, as openly described in the show, and secretly filmed, but Matt had no idea and could make what choices he liked. I was able to steer him in a loose direction and massage his thinking towards certain ideas, but that was all: they had to be his decisions. The amount of work in securing his well-being without him knowing (the constant checks with work and home and foreseeing every eventuality) would have made a documentary in itself. The lengths we went to to preserve Matt’s experience and make it totally genuine for him were massive. At another level, the technical side was fantastic: the tiny cameras hidden in buttons and so on we needed to film and cover everything the aeroplane, for example, were numerous and extraordinary, as was the airport’s involvement in making the check-in normal for everyone, even though the plane wasn’t really flying to Jersey as it said on the departure board. It was far more involved than, say, the Heist, and some people thought that was all fake too. There’s only so much we can explain without the show slowing down: it’s supposed after all to be entertainment. We could have explained more detail in places, but ultimately you have to find a balance that most people are happy with in the crammed time you have. Again though, it’s simply not an option to have him play along or use an actor, fake the show and then mislead UK TV viewers into thinking it was real.
Mark: You gotta dig deep to understand this and most of Derren’s work. He makes it happen, but ‘how?’ is what you keep asking until you understand how… and without thinking “it was setup” or “the person was a stooge” as thinking any of those two things is wrong. Well you could say ‘setup’ is partially correct if you think in terms of Derren made it all happen (which means there was a setup behind it but not that kind of setup that says Derren just told him what to do.)
Yes, I’d say that was about right and nicely put. Matt’s journey had to be absolutely real, but obviously I’m tinkering in all areas where he isn’t aware to make sure it happens to plan as much as is possible. That’s very different from it being a big hoax or fake. Some can’t or won’t see that, and it’s fine.
How is Matt now?
Excellent. He’s sorting a mortgage and looking at career options. And I’m sure he’d tell you he’s a changed man – certainly in the time I’ve known him he’s transformed and those around him have very movingly attested to this. He was understandably disappointed to have some people simply, joylessly, refuse to believe any of such a powerful personal journey, but the response has been so overwhelmingly positive, and obviously his work colleagues and everyone around him are very excited and he’s buzzing.
As you may know, this has been my favourite show to work on – most ambitious, most involved, most demanding and by far the most joyful. I consider it my fondest and best, and it was a privilege to be part of it and to get to know Matt.
I hope this answers enough questions. I’m sure not all of them, but thank you for posting.
best – dx
Will there be an extended version of the program available on DVD or at altar stage on More4 which goes into more of the background on how you chose Matt over all the other candidates?
Lovely, certainly cleared a lot of things up for me!
Thanks!
Your dedication knows no bounds. Let’s look forward to the next show!
I love it when db does shows like this one, and the trick or teat ones. Don’t get me wrong the tricks of the mind and all the other ones are great, but these other ones actually change people’s lives and their future outlook on events to come. To me.. its truly amazing to watch the participant experience the end result, it changes them. I will always remember the outcome of the girl who was put in a bag and thrown in a lake. Truly amazing stuff.
Now if i could only get these shows in the US. :p
Absolutly brilliant show, well done derren you did it again!! Can’t wait to see more!! Good luck xx
Thanks for posting that Derren. I do have one Question though….
It obvious that a lot of work was put into ‘Hero’ and i thoroughly enjoyed watching it!
I may have even taking something from it, but we’ll see …. xx
“That’s very different from it being a big hoax or fake. Some can’t or won’t see that, and it’s fine.”
I spent some time today at work answering just these questions from people who dismissed ‘Hero’ as an out-and-out fake. I shall point them to this list of answers on Monday. They did insist that it was all a scripted entertainment with Matt as the central actor who learned his lines and movement; they also dismissed the idea that both DB and his team would have spent weeks planning and managing the experiences that Matt genuinely had.
Matt was offered choices outside of his daily life and his choosing created the drama. The emotional attractiveness of uncertainty and the beneficial pay-off when choosing to leave one’s comfort zone is central to the enjoyment of ‘Hero’.
I didn’t think he was an actor because it was the only answer to what happened – I completely believe people with suggestible personalities can be hypnotized – I thouhgt he was an actor purely from the way he…acted. He didn’t seem to react in a believable way, the bit where he first saw the jack-in-the-box particularly felt like he was acting up to a camera.
Well doen Derren for being”brave” to face up to questions/doubts about your art. Sad that you had to do so. Is striking TV so rare these days it has to be fake?]}Any date for Enigma broadcast and next round of “fake” cries lol.
*Excuse the typos* :/
derren, would just like say that all your shows are mind-blowing. i for one believe its al true, its obvious you will have your doubters and thats because that the other night took 30 days to film and you had to condense it into just over an hour.
it was amazing show and made me think alot about my life and im the same as matt and just wish someone could put me through all of that to make me a better person and more outgoing.
hope to hear back from you. thanks
Derren, im sorry you’ve had to explain yourself you shouldn’t need to.
Excellent Show, Well done to both you & Matt
I thank you that you take your time to explain everything! Not many Illusionists or performers of any kind take the time to answer questions of the public. in detail as you did!
It was once more a great and inspiring show.
Regards from Switzerland
Excellent read Derren. Sadly a lot of my friends thought the show was fake and that Matt was an actor, even after I tried to explain what you have here – that it was set up to an extent in which Matt’s inner thoughts can be swayed into believing he is stronger and braver than he believes, which is exactly what you accomplished. Sadly some people will never accept or understand the concepts of entertainment TV, unless they experience for themselves what Matt did. Needless to say, for those of us who do believe in your work, your show brought much hope and inspiration. Keep up the great work!
Great answers, Derren. Of course I didn’t doubt the show but it’s great that you clarified all these niggles people had. I’ll happily relay some of these answers along to people I know with doubts.
It was a fascinating show. But the simulator thing was all out of order. One second the autopilot is switched on and set to 3000ft. Next second, the computer is shouting out “twenty five hundred” to inform the pilot that the plane is at 2500ft, and the next second, the ATC guy is telling Matt to locate the altitude setting of 30,000ft and turn it down to 3,000ft!
Mr. Brown, I want to thank you for this excellent piece of television. I agree that this was your best special ever. This was where your experience, showmanship and talent comes together. Hope to see you in Holland one day. You have a lot of fans here.
Liked it very much!
Greetz from Holland
Hello, great show (as always!)
My boyfriend and I want to know what was on the piece of paper stuck in the window of Matt’s house – it seemed to make him change his mind about going in at one point, and going to write instead.
I think it was important, he thinks it was a note for the milkman!
Who is right???
Sarah
-x-
Hi Derren, Hero was a genius idea and I loved every minute of it, thank you! What made you think of doing it?
Yeah, that clears things up a lot
The show was amazing, and it’s made me think a lot about my life too – especially the bit where you said “right now, this second, we’re living the only life we have”. I joined a “learn Italian” course today just because of that show, as that’s something I’ve wanted to do for ages but never done anything about.
Thanks Derren!
DERREN I LOVE YOU.
I saw enigma – and was chosen for the part of the show where a participant was put into a hypnotic state – and everyone after the show asked me if i had been placed there for the show and was just playing along – but it was all completly real! I was in a sort-of trance like state and after i had woken up i sort of remembered doing the things but i didn’t…the only was i can explain is that it is like just being woken up from a dream but the things that you did don’t seem real they sort of seem like you dreamed them…I do sleep walk qute a bit and when i wake up in the morning i remembered really faintly some of the things which i have done but them seem so much like a dream i can never be sure! So i have to ask other people. I think Derren is genuinely amazing!! xxx
i love all your shows! although i made my friend watch a show and now she makes me do one thing everyday that i would normally back out of
i wish i was as good at art as you are! all your work rocks! 
Thanks for answering those questions, some of them things that I had wondered also. I fest totally inspired and moved to tears watching it – some true words of astounding wisdom. Thank you!
Fantastic answers. Loved the show.
Think in a way it is a shame that some people can’t accept that you are very good at your ‘job’, that you studied hard to perfect your career and have to alwaystry and put it down to ‘it’s faked’. Ever since I was little and watched people like Paul Daniels, Lance Burton et al. I have been facinated with magic and illusion. I used to watch tricks over and over trying to work out how it was done. Then bought books upon books trying to learn the secrets. Then I thought no that will ruin the trick, but found I enjoyed them more as I knew the details behind the trick and was more impressed when I still couldn’t see it done.
Then Derren came along with a new kind of ‘illusion’ a new show of mind over matter, tricks of the mind. Yet when you look into how they are done it is a lot easier on cont
I think the more behind-the-scenes footage you release, the better! Get it on YouTube or something
By the by, I don’t think you can complain if people are extremely skeptical of everything you do now. Recently, you have straight out lied to viewers when explaining how things were achieved (reminds me – I must buy a lottery ticket).
This also makes your claim about the legality of misleading viewers confusing…I’ve never seen you do a ‘traditional’ magic trick on TV, but a lot of your material is based on disguising magic tricks as other things. I’m not sure how this fits in with the lawyers’ definition of what’s misleading and what isn’t.
Saying that, I’m a big fan and loved Hero. Best of luck with future projects!
I was all geared up to be all analytical and ask more questions but you know what, I just love what you do.
x
There will always be people who just don’t get it but as someone who’s had direct experience of your mind fiddling skillz I can safely say that you are the bollocks.
some than a magic trick. Most of it is basic psychology. being able to read a person like a book. Know the right words to say to people and how to say them to get the people to do what you want them to do. Very much like a cult leader. They know how to ‘control’ people yet people don’t say it was all faked when there is a mass suicide at some wacko cult range.
Give Derren a break and just enjoy what he does. And Derren keep up the good work, you are very inspiring.
I think it’s such a shame that due to people’s inability to just enjoy something they don’t understand that it has to be explained to them. I’ve been following you (not in a stalker-ish way, that would just be weird) since 2000 – I love what you do, am blown away by your intelligence and am ultimately amazed at the power of the human mind. It annoys me that people just label stuff ‘fake’ because they can’t explain it themselves – if they’d read your books or watched your TV shows they’d know you even tell people how things are done (to a degree), not that I could do what you do, obviously! I for one loved every minute of this show and I also think it’s the best thing you’ve done. I’m very much looking forward to the tour – I’ll be the one trying to catch the Frisbee! Cx
The one big question for me that hasn’t been tackled yet is how will he ever be able to apply for the police force now that he has been seen on national TV illegally entering someone’s home and stealing a van load of party gear?
Thanks for that. I think a lot of us did not make the connection about why he would behave so atypically in the policeman’s house – we did hear you saying he should visualise what’s like to be a policeman living in a policeman’s house but this didn’t really prepare us for the idea of him essentially trespassing in one, which is different to imagining one’s own future. You must have done a lot more work on that set of suggestions than was apparent, so some narrative about your intentions here might have helped.
Thanks for explaining it though – I hope the comment helps.
Quick questions — and I apologise if these was answered in the programme:
Who was the person in pilot’s uniform sitting next to Matt in the simulator? I assume it was the “co-pilot”; but then, why would Matt have to do the landing? Not that it matters much, it is simply something that I wondered.
Secondly, what was the back-up plan in case Matt didn’t take up on the offer of helping the passengers? Bar from landing as normal, etc, what would be substituted instead of the live simulator scene?
(Also, is an extended cut on E4 a possibility in the future?)
Regards,
Douglas
Thanks for the answers. I’m going to show this to as many doubters as possible, which luckily isn’t that many! One of my friends has watched this twice, and each time came to me saying it was amazing. I agree with her. It was great. Not just great, but truly indescribable in the way it affected me. I hope matt understands that his journey has changed the lives of others too, including me. It was the craziest and most beautiful thing I’ve watched – apart from Inception! But this was real life, so I guess it was right up there! But really. Words can’t describe.
I just have one unanswered question.
when you pressed the button at the end, did you mean that there’s going to be another episode in 30 days? I don’t mind about whether there is or not, I’m just curious. And I understand you’re shooting Science of Attraction, so I was just wondering.
But yeah, just a huge thanks for changing my life. I swear to myself I’m going to meet you.
okay..its maddening to be a fan.. follow the blog.. and read all of the info.. without having seen the show.
Apparently, its hard to find when you live in the US. And.. the online version is even blocked in our area.
Suggestions ? Heck.. I cant even purchase a copy of Evening of Wonders….argh
I liked how you incorporated Donnie Darko into it (one of my all time favourite films, even though I still don’t quite understand it after I’ve watched it and read up about it so many times). I’ve seen all your shows (and even managed to catch your Enigma tour last year) and you amaze me every time. I still can’t get my head around the hypnosis though, especially in Hero when Matt was ‘under’ for such a long time and didn’t know what was happening.
I am also pleased to hear that Matt is doing so well and taking positive steps in his life. Wishing all my best to him.
I really enjoyed the show, it was great. I really liked Matt and he should definitely pursue his dreams of becoming a police officer.
You reminded me that every single second of my life is precious, and I’m not going to regret any of it.
Thank you so much!(:
xx
A remarkable show and for me no questions need asking or indeed answering. The more I don’t know or the more I try to rationalise things then the deeper I fall in love with it. For me that is the one single drug that keeps me hooked. Put it this way, if it wasn’t so great then nobody would question it, and that my friend is the single biggest compliment anyone can ever pay you and your work. I look forward to the next step. Best x
Watching Matt overcome his fear of flying made me wonder if Derren would be open to working with other kinds of ‘disorders’ like anorexia, social phobia, substance abuse, etcetera.
You didnt answer my question about if you could extend your next tour to include smaller towns so i can get an autographed shoe!
Derren i love you x
Well I thought the show was brilliant, and I really don’t understand just how people can think it was a fix when Derren was so honest about everything throughout it. I especially liked the camera shot of the rain over the field.
I thought the whole thing was excellent. From a viewing standpoint it’s enough to make me (and I assume, quite a few others) take a step back and have a look at how we are living our lives. Wether or not the show was real or fake and I don’t think for a second it was fake, it’s the meaning behind it all I enjoyed.
I’ve watched it twice.
Oh and nearly cried at how proud Derren was.
Haha!
Love
Robert x
you’re a genius Derren we loved the show I had a tear in my eye at the end seeing what the power of a little self belief will do for you, good for you for reminding people (including me) that we all have the power to make the changes we need to to improve our lives!!! Utterly Brilliant!!!
oh wow. I always beleived that that was geniuine regardless of all the editting etc.
Personally the only part i wasn’t sure about was at the train track, i just didn’t see Matt panic as much i would have. I dont know, maybe because he knew he was with Derren Brown who would for certain keep him alive. But I think C4 should give you permission to make the show atleast 90mins, Id be happy to sit infront of the tv for that long :]
Oh one last question: The timer at the end, is that motiviation for us to change our paths or ….is there really going to be another epsiode?
Loved the show. However i do have one question, Why Matt would have been more curious as to why none of the air hotesses could not help to land the plane. Surely in that situation it would have made more sense to have a member of staff landing the plane rather than a member of the public with a fear of flying??.
Also if landing a plane does help to get rid of a fear of flying, what helps to get rid of a fear of escalators??
xxx
I have to say I think your absolutly amazing to watch I find it mind blowing. Would love to come and watch a show or something. Think hero was. One of ur best. Was sceptical at first wen I first watched your shows but there are many unexplained things and things we could never understand and we are bound to question. Great show
Thank you Derren for this. Since the show was on I’ve had a tough time trying to explain to all of my friends and family that none of this was false. In my opinion, most people are intimidated by your genius and so have to find holes to try and explain it to themselves as otherwise they would not understand. I love you, man! x
Derren, saw you in manchester for the enigma tour and you were fantastic. And again you never failed to impress this time round either. Keep up the great work…Telephone, sausage, monkey, button, book…Ring a bell? Read your book three years ago and still remember the list lol all the best. Mike
Excellent show! I loved every minute of it, completely different to any of your other stuff, and it was lovely to see Matt gradually changing into a different, but better person, whilst seeing you doing what you do so well Derren.
hey derren.
when you say someone ealses countdown starts now and you puss the button, are you acctually going to put someone through a similar process and make another show out of it?
please reply.
thank you!
-will
Hey Derren. Really liked the show.
I’m usaully wary of motivational stuff.
How would you say it differs from some inspirational messages that have unrealistic ideals and can do damage?
Hero was a truly amazing piece of TV, I have followed your work with great enthusiasm from the beginning and would agree with you that this is your best piece of TV to date. It was insightful, self motivating and emotional. I have never commented on anything before but felt I had to on this. What a lovely guy Matt, his girlfriend and mother were and seems like he really deserved the life changing experience you have given him.
Don’t worry about the doubters, I am sure they are in the minority.
Well done and keep up the good work, I hope the start of the countdown at the end of the program will bring more like this.
Great show, typical Derren genius.
But … feels like there was some “assistance” on the flight sim. Maybe it was on “easy”? There was no reference to flaps, angle of descent, etc.
You never fail to Amaze me.
Although i have one question!!
It was advertised LIVE, but it was barely live as it was shot a week before it was shown on telly, and it was only live at the end. So my question is. What was the ending about? Is it a countdown for someone else, or like a general message for the auidience to change our lives or something like that?
Thanks for making TV good (Y)
Peace out.
Edutainment at its absolute finest – brilliant! Thank you!
When you say that there was so much extra work and material that we didn’t get to see it just whets my appetite and makes me want to see an extended edition. I’d love to see the lengths you had to go to as a DVD extra feature.
TV is generally full of mind-numbing tripe which turns brains into mashed potato and thoroughly discourages thinking. Programmes which are thought-provoking and even inspiring are desperately rare (shame stupid channel 4 made it clash with a Dawkins documentary). I think it is unfortunate that some people have flatly rejected hero as a deception, but you can’t complain because they are after all questioning, and that’s always a good thing. For me the themes behind it are liberating, thank you very much for making it.
Well I have to say your professionalism and integrity has always been above reproach and is more so now that you have taken time to answer more or less all of the doubting questions, who else would answer them so honestly??, well done, you continue to amaze but more importantly you continue to inspire, I only wish you could find some way to teach people even a little bit of what you do so that they can use it to make their lives better.
))
Regards,
Noel
P.S. This does,nt mean that I have forgiven you for your show in the Grand Canal theatre in Dublin, you came on stage and headed straight to me with the microphone, at last I was going to get to do a trick with you, but at the last moment you handed it to my brother-in-law who was sitting beside me… damn you Derren Brown
Thanks Derren for answering those questions. I suppose some people are a bit too curious sometimes.
I watched the show this afternoon and like most people was massively moved by Matt’s story and journey and it was obvious that everyone involved including Matt and yourself were emotionally affected too. It goes to show that believe you can and you most likely will. I wish I had the conviction to strive a bit more – this show inspired me.
Just one question, ever thought of writing a book about this?
Thanks again,
Dylan.
Hi Derren,
Thanks for clarifying ALL of the questions that I’ve been having to try to answer to my dad to make him believe the show was 100% the real thing! He loved the show but was a little sceptical. However, since I was hypnotised in a recent show of yours in Southampton I’m pleased to be at a slight advantage in convincing people that you do not use actors! I’ve always been a fan and this was, by far, your best television show yet. It was entertaining but most importantly inspiring. I’m sure I’m not alone in saying that the show made me want to get up and do something positive with my life, take some risks, and stop hesitating to do what I want to do!
So thanks Derren – and a huge congratulations to you, all of the team and, of course, to Matt!
Best wishes,
Nicky x
Great show Derren, I would love to be a “victim” on one of your shows but it scares and fascinates me at the same time, I was stuck to the chair a few months ago and that was freaky enough for me!!!! Keep up the brilliant work.
Many thanks for these answers, they certainly cleared up a couple of questions I had.
As ever, the show was excellent – thought-provoking and uplifting, certainly for someone like myself who was similar to pre-show Matt in my 20s!
Keep up the good work, can’t wait for the next one!
Like many people I find your work fantastic enough to sometimes be hard to believe, and yet I do because I see that there would be no point in it if it were fake – there is so much fakery in life that fooling people is unspecial. So though I do not understand the ‘hows’, I do not need to because I value immensely the gift you give by showing over and over that we are more than we think, and that our brains are more complexed and powerful than ‘they’ would like us to know. But most of all, I am very grateful – as a member of the human race – that you have chosen to use your talent to lift human consciouness, reduce victim-consciouness, and show us we can be better people. You could so much harm but (and so rarely in people with power), you choose not to. Thank you.
Great show. Would love to see a longer version explaining all the preparation and background effort. Very inspiring.
Hi derren. This isn’t a critisim just a thought. U say u hope people were inspired by this show, I hope so too. But have u thought that some people may see this as false bravado kind of thing. I really hope that there isn’t a have-a-go hero with a gunshot wound saying he saw your show. Thanks 4 the show, I like things that make me think!!xx
I thought his show was very good. Matt seems to have really benefited from the experience. It is scary to think of the things people can do with these techniques when used for nefarious reasons.
How much of your work has been influenced by the MK-Ultra Project?
I feel really honoured after that and impressed by the actual changes I’ve seen other people make since Wednesday night. Twitter has been on fire with the odd comment about how someone has done something new or returned to something old that they left behind. It worked the way you wanted it to Derren. Well planned. Well executed. Well meaning and all round fantastic work.
RIght i have a question… AT the end when you said another persons journey is about to begin.. did you mean that literally?? xxx
There will always be skeptics but I thought what you achieved on this show with Matt was AMAZING, you & your production team must be so proud & deservedly so. Your programmes & live shows are truly are mesmerising. I can’t wait to see what happens with the next programme……I’ll be on the edge of my seat waiting for the next 30 days to end!
Excellent. There will always be doubters, but let them doubt. Keep up the great work Derren
As much as I enjoyed the show, I did have a few moments where I was a little puzzled – I’m very glad that you took the time to answer all those questions (and I’m guessing alot of other people too!). It was clear that Matt was going through a very personal journey, and I’m happy that he gained so much from it. I think that if the show was a little bit longer, then perhaps even more detail could have been added, and there would be less questions.
I particularly enjoyed the film references too, and found myself frantically Googling the Watchmen “thermodynamic miracle” speech during the show, as I was sure that I had watched and/or read it recently
I look forward to seeing some more shows that you *may* be making in the near future
Firstly, congratulations. Watched the show and believed it to be amazing. Not just the process, but also the production. Wont even begin to contemplate the processes involved, but love the thought of massaging the mind and requiring someone to be open to suggestions or manipulation (possibly not the best choice of words so please forgive. Having supported people through trauma for many years, and to recovery from a multitude of events (not to be listed here), and more recently for the one whom I love the most…I truly believe in that process, as it has shown me how recovery can be made by many. Dont confess to be skilled, but certainly what you write and show rings true on so many levels. Having also directly witnessed the bystander affect (never researched it myself) but again so true.
The reason i believe that people thought it was fake was becauseit was so extrodinary and almost unbelieveable, it was such a great show abs Derren is an amazing person- Cant wait for more
Hi Derren (etc)
I absolutley loved the show, and I must admit that on a certain level I am interested in how you do your tricks, I prefer just to be enthralled and moved and flabbergasted and inspired. You are a great performer and during ‘Hero’ you seemed to be genuinely joyful about the good vibes you were creating. I loved every minute – I laughed and I cried! You are, by far, one of the best entertainers around.
Respect,
Bridie
im intreguied? why after such a long time and seeing your amazing work people are now doubting you derren..tut tut!! all i can say is that i seen you live in belfast and it blew my mind i couldn ever even doubt your capabilities but maybe im gulable?? the show was outstanding and im sure you found it quite embarrasing if not time consuming haviong to answer simple minded questions which could have easily been answered via thought process? DERREN..your a genius and people will always try and figure you out or try and catch you out!!! how wish you were not batting for the other side because your mind blowning capabilities leave me in total admiration…see you soon!! x
Derren,
watched your show on youtube last night as i live in New Zealand. You know its an amazing show when you are still thinking about it. Please come to NZ. You have no idea how internationally famous you are, or do you.
If I had worked that hard on something, all for the benefit of another person, only to have dozens of people saying that I hadn’t put any work in at all, and that it was all just staged, I’d go MAD!
Just accept it people…He’s good! And he did a really nice thing for Matt.
Wow! Missed the show in the week but just watched it on 4OD. What an amazing piece of television.
Very inspirational, actually brought tears to my eyes! Particularly at the end when Derren said this is the best moment of his career – very moving. I think there are elements of my personality that I identify with in Matt too, and watching this has really made me look at things differently.
The amount of work that must have gone into this is absolutely incredible. Thanks Derren, and thanks Channel 4 for allowing this to go ahead.
Hello Derren.
Obviously – as you stated in the programme – the airplane sequence was very unrealistic. Something like that would not happen in the real world. My question to you is this; As the event taking place was so unrealistic, how come Matt didn’t question it or entertain the possibility of it all being part of the ‘gameshow’?
I’ve never been put in a position such as Matt’s, so I’m not sure what I would be thinking in that scenario, but watching it on television, the first thought that ran through my mind was “co-pilot”. Just struck me as odd that Matt didn’t question the whole thing a little more.
Brilliant show!, I just watched my recording of it and it was truly believable, too many doubting thomas’s about me thinks. Ever read the book the “power of now”? we are all capable of so much, it is our minds that stop us and ultimately fear. Derren you are wonderful !
Hi Derren! I’m Oisin, a young magician/actor in Ireland! I have been a fan of you for about five years now and have to say that I really enjoyed HERO and would love to see you do more shows like this in the future! I was wondering when you are next touring in Ireland? as although TV performances are great, a live show must be a hundred times better! And do you have any tips for me as a magician? I love to do Mentalism and Card tricks when performing! Thank you
have just read about the bystander effect in Richard Wiseman’s 59 Seconds, nice to see this in effect. Bizarre though!
I’m with Darren here (another NZ’d'er who wants you to visit!) – I also watched your show on YouTube because TV here is pretty meh.
I promise I’ll buy the DVD when it comes out – I’m hoping for a 4 hour long directors cut
It’s not all that surprising that people had doubt and disbelief about the show – a lot of those things you left out would have given more credibility, but.. Time constraints and all..
It’s also gotta be difficult to convince a population of people who governments, religion and media lie to on a daily basis anyway. They must have become to expect it over the years.
Love your talents Derren. Wish I had 1/10 the ability and talent you do.
Pure excellence,i must admit to being a bigger fan of Derren’s stage shows than his tv work as there is no place for editing.Perhaps those who doubt Derrens scruples should take themselves to one of his perfomances to witness his genius as a showman.When he is going to deceive you,he will tell you.However i do doubt the validity of this program purely for Matt’s sake.I would like to see a follow up show in say nine months to see his progress or downfall…….as his relationship breaks up,in part because he is no longer the man he was!………Call me psychic if you like……No ill will intended,just a thought.
Any chance of a follow up Derren?
People should stop trying to find tricks within the ‘trick’ and just take it for what it is, an inspirational and quite moving piece of television that obviously took a lot of planning and work to carry out. They had to edit 30 days worth of material into 90mins so of course not every single question we have is going to be answered but look at the bigger picture and see what was achieved, its an amazing feat.
What a wonderfully informative set of answers (along with some good questions, I thought). Sadly we all feel the need to question things we don’t understand, it’s only natural. I just hope this has finally put to bed all the ‘fakery’ nonsense surrounding what, for me, was a truly enjoyable programme.
One thing I think IS a shame though, and that’s the time constraints you have. Is there no way the show could have been for 90 minutes perhaps? I realise I know nothing of such things, but as so many issues seem to derive from the heavy editing, it’s a plausible point to make.
I’ve already gone previously into how much I took from the show and how I enjoyed it. I, for one, can’t wait to see what you do next, you’re always such a joy to watch, Derren.
Take care
LC x
Derren, I believe you when you say Matt was not an actor, and, because you can probably read my mind, even though I wrote this text in the past, now, you will know that I really do mean it when I say I believe you.
I actually find it incredible that people would even think that you would fake it. I mean why would you? What would be the point? Anybody with no talent could do that.
Asides from that, don’t people realise that of course there would be legal reasons why you absolutely couldn’t do it. I am aghast that you literally have to spell that out to some and continually defend yourself over claims like this.
I also don’t get why someone who thinks it is just bull-shit would even watch it.
I thought Hero was superb, and life-changing for many, not just Matt.
All the best.
“He dresses much cooler than me so I can’t comment.”…..:O Ummm, no I don’t think so, haha! Do you know I was at dinner with my family and Nan said “there’s plenty of men out there”. I looked out the window and my heart sank when yet another scruffy guy walked past in tracksuit bottoms and a t shirt walking like he couldn’t help it….:( O god there is no hope. I love a well dressed man with manners and class
But where the heck are they all hiding?!
Any way I am rambling. Great, fantastic show. You are simply AMAZING xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Thanks Derren, must be slighty gutting to work so hard and be dismissed so easily, But at least you can see some of your fans being sceptical and asking rational questions is a good thing and something you encourage!!
When I came down to London to potentially go for this show you were a perfect gent! Dont think you’d have it in you in ‘con’ your fans especially since when you are doing ‘tricks’ ,you do without claiming mystical or supernatural ‘powers’, as honest as a magician can be without giving the game away I’d say!
It doesn’t matter how many questions get answered, some people simply refuse to have their opinions changed regardless of what evidence is put before them.
I remember hearing Derren speak about a ‘psychic’ who whilst performing a live stage show, was exposed as a fake. Even after the ‘psychic’ had been revealed as a fake, his loyal fans refused to accept the proof. They stuck to their beliefs and explained the ‘psychic’ was able to perform his wonders thanks to his special powers.
Derren’s show challenges us to examine why we settle for mediocrity in our own lives. This may cause some people to feel very uncomfortable. By proclaiming the show is staged, the uncomfortable feeling disappears. We no longer have to justify our lack of ambition and can ease back into our mediocre lives.
Well, I was convinced it was a hoax, something about it just didn’t convince me. I assumed that the whole thing was clever misdirection from a longer term goal over the course of the series (it is a series isn’t it? Or did I misinterpret the countdown at the end?). However, I don’t believe you to be the kind of person to lie to our proverbial faces, so genuine it was.
Something does bug me though. Presumably you evaluated Matt to make sure he wasn’t the kind of person to suffer PTSD after being threatened with a gun? If utmost care was taken to keep Matt out of the line of serious emotional damage then all is well, I just wouldn’t want to think you would just take the risk of seriously mentally damaging someone. As a particularly nervous person who can’t really handle conflict, it’d take me years to get over being involved in an armed robbery. I’m sure most people would find it at least fairly traumatic though.
However, concerns aside, making that much of a difference in someone’s life must feel pretty awesome, so well done Mr B.
cleared up all my doubts, thank you.
My husband and I missed the live show but managed to avoid the feedback prior to viewing. Our main concern was the start in Leeds and the fact that we live there, and that it “could have been me” moment. Saying that, we thoroughly enjoyed the show and were more intrigued that you were able to influence someone’s life so much.
Excellent show. We have come to expect nothing less and would be happy to be involved should you wish. (as a matter of point, I am much more intelligent than my husband – or so I’d like to think).
Thank you again
Debs
Im intrigued at what you do. Can I be you’re apprentice?
How do you get away with filming someone in their bedroom without their explicit prior consent? I know that Liv and Matt’s mum were in on it, and gave their permission, but if it were me, I sure wouldn’t feel happy to know that the guys in the edit suite had hours of footage of me getting dressed etc!!
Love you xx
Any doubts I had have now been eradicated, much respect, I admire your work. I actually felt moved by the show, opened my eyes a little, longing for a similar experience to change my own outlook in such a way.
Although I still have a question, when you met with Matt for the train section, why didn’t that make him suspicious? I presumed you had maybe told him it was about the gameshow? In which case surely he’d have to think afterwards as to its relevance and find it a bit bizarre.
Again, much respect to you, you’re a brilliant entertainer, and in so many different ways.. Looking forward to the next show!
Derren, the show was so fantastic, positive & inspiring. It’s incredible how much you had to coordinate and how much planning must’ve gone into it. I think it was edited perfectly and it was right not to include every “explanation” segment, which would’ve made it slow and boring. It’s almost like whoever is going to believe it does, and those who are going to doubt it will, no matter what. Come to America!!
I can’t wait to see your next show. Thank you for making this one and for answering everyone’s questions about it.
Derren Victor Brown, you are my favourite human being on the whole of this beautiful Earth.
I’m SO happy you just wiped the floor with all of the numpties who think you have enough money to bribe thousands of participants over the past ten years, and are sad enough to do so.
Please keep doing what you do, I know you’ll never let a bunch of poo heads discourage you. You are a true hero, and I wish I was best friends with you.
All my love, Lotty xoxo
Just wanted to add to the general love-in; the show was wonderful, these answers are really interesting, you are a genius, thank you. That about covers it.
PS – I reckon part of the reason people think it’s fake is that because you’re so good, it all looks effortless. Too talented for your own good Derren. Next time maybe show some of that blood, sweat and tears that go into it? Would make a good companion piece if nothing else.
P.S.
I am in awe of how much tolerance and patience you have. I applaud your dignified, calm and controlled response to all these INFURIATING and INSULTING questions. Just to confirm once more, you are my favourite human being on this whole planet.
Derren you are magical, mystical, intelligent – one of the cleverest men on this planet and I love you. Watched you at The Lowry – Enigma – just brilliant! anyone not seen it? Then why not? Go go go! x
You are awesome, especially for the awesome fight club nod. How on earth did you stop anyone else popping in for petrol??
Anyway, brilliant show.
I think what Derren did in his latest show was remarkable. He’s inspired people to empower themselves and see that there is more to life than the herd mentality and being consumed by your own fears and insecurities, that all of us have the potential to make our experience of life better by becomming better people, and living life in the present. His shows have increasingly been introducing certain open-minded concepts and possibilities, in what I would consider much needed times. I personally found it inspirational – its just a shame that some people won’t notice, let alone appreciate what he has done on a larger scale.
Actor or no actor, the show has a moral point and this is that human beings are capable of far more than we think we are. The show portrayed this point brilliantly. At the end of the day, it a ‘show’ and is therefore of entertainment as well as educational value. People should watch Derren’s programs and read his books with an open but critical mind and not be so quick to cry fake. In my mind, Derren is a ‘Hero’ of TV these days, especially if you compare this program to the likes of Eastender’s.
What about the Jack in the box ? Why didn`t that make him suspicious ?
You answered a question about movie references to Hero…
What speech in watchmen are you talking about, i was just wondering.
Also do you enjoy the film V for Vendetta as it is one of my favorite films.
Big fan
Sam Aces Lukic
Your the real Hero Derren!
(had to be said)
It amazes me that despite all the times you clearly state that you dont use actors or stooges that people still question whether or not it was set up.
The first time i saw the advertisement for Hero at 30,000 feet i got extremly exited and slightly amazed at how your shows are still impressing me before ive even seen them!.
Cant wait to see the next show, just a shame that its so far away. Im extremly inpatient
Ed, I cried too, and probably for the same reason of identifying with Matt. I just found it very intense and emotional.
derren started a new timer at the end of the show. So will there be a new show?
Derren – you’re a legend! Love all your shows but this was the best yet; I was on the edge of my seat willing him to land the plane then after I just wanted to get in on that group-hug – well done Matt!
Ha i just watched Watchmen and it was pretty clear which speak you refereed to.
Sam Aces Lukic
To me it seems obvious that Derren would never fake something like this.
One cannot be against the “psychic” industry for making money off of an elaborate con, while making money by tricking people into believing a fake narrative, without being the most horrible sort of hypocrite. I think it’s fairly safe to say that anyone so opposed to the spreading of lies will not be so fickle as to create such an elaborate one themselves.
Or maybe his whole “deception is wrong!” stance is an elaborate act to make us dismiss the possibility of him being a part of a massive lie… (that’s the thing with paranoia; when faced with strong evidence against you, you simply convince yourself that the conspiracy must be even better planned out than you had anticipated! cognitive dissonance theory anyone?)
I absolutely loved the show, I found it so inspiring, I work as a counsellor and this is what my work is about helping people to recognise their full potential to enable them to grow. In Therapy that can take a long time sometimes years, its a privilege to be part of somebodies journey. I’ve experienced hypnotherapy and EFT in the past and found them to be really helpful and for years now I’ve thought about training in hypnotherapy to enhance my counselling work, the show has convinced me even more that, that’s a path I’m going to take.
Well done Derren I think your fantastic and very talented, but what stand out most for me is your genuine caring for the person your working with.
LInda x
I feel desperately sorry for those people who can’t accept that this was real – they only have their sense of smugness and negativity to get them through this life, how bleak. As with all of the shows I’ve seen both live and on TV, I am left speechless at the skill and artistry DB displays. In this case though it warmed the cockles to see how affected Derren was himself by the outcome. I’m so glad to be living in a time where there are rational experts who have a dash of the folk hero about them – Dawkins, Brian Cox, etc etc and DB himself. Love him, loved the show and look forward to many more.
Got to say, that was my least favourite DB special to date. Convoluted, too many things that were just not right, not enough wow.
Keep up the good work though.
I really enjoyed the show and as someone who has studied both magic and hypnosis really enjoy your work and think if not for derren illusion would be lost. I now work for the firer service and the experiment with the person sat and smoke coming in relates back to a fire in the eighties in woolworths I believe where people were queuing in the restaurant and didn’t leave as they hadn’t paid for their bill I show several videos of this experiment that have been done by psycologists and it all depends on the type of person how we re-act but the pack mentality takes over unfortunately nobody wants to be the first to act. To be able to change someone in such a positive direction through your work is amazing I’m sure there is no end to where you could go with this unfortunately it is a shame we have such restrictions with tv and stage performing
I think Derren and the production team miscalculated this one. It is vital for the success of this kind of show that the viewer accepts the reality (genuineness) of what is being presented. Otherwise, as Derren says, it is all pointless. The mistake was in making much of the show just too unbelievable. It is therefore not surprising that many people will simply dismiss it all as having been staged using actors and stooges. As a sceptic himself, Derren should understand, and not be surprised, when people are sceptical about his own work.
Mike
Thanks for the post Derren. I personally think the show was a great success and I enjoyed the journey immensely. For those that doubt the techniques and behaviours, simply read through a few of the books that Derren recommends on the website. The experiments (such as the The Bystander Experiment) are well documented and in a lot of cases, very shocking. I enjoyed Influence – The Psychology of Persuasion as it is very accessible. It amuses me that there has been such an uproar about this special. I think perhaps human behaviour is more astonishing than we really give it credit for. May I suggest perhaps an section on the DVD that goes into more of the preparation. For those who believe no explanation is neccassary, for those who do not, none will suffice (Dunninger)!
Thank you for taking the time to write all that and I’m sorry you felt you needed to. Fitting 30 days into 70 minutes is always going to leave holes but it seems a lot of people have examined their life as a result and some of them are making changes because of you. So, you win! As for the doubters – I did some fundraising recently using justgiving and as I was publicising it online, some strangers (in every sense of the word) questioned whether I was going to keep the money for myself, whether I would even do the event, even one person wishing for injury for me, totally slating it even though they know nothing about me. Totally demoralising and crushing until you realise there are always people who get joy from putting others down. They mean nothing so please don’t let them touch your heart here.
I think it was a beautiful thing to do for someone and I wish this could be a regular series. I’d much prefer ‘good deed TV’ than the chavvy lowest common denominator bullying TV that was born of Big Brother and fed to us over the last 10 years. Brilliant Idea.
anyone who thinks it’s fake is just silly!
Derren u r amazing!!! i think i need u in my life! Keep being you, you r brilliant
Thank you Derren,
You truly are the most lovely and intelligent person on tv. Some people don’t understand what you do, and how or why you do it, and they might think it’s fake, and I must say, those people are missing out. You’ve inspired me to take up Psychology, so I can understand people better, and I wish you all the best with the next show =)
Much, much love to you Derren, keep up the good work.
loved this last show, matt’s journey is amazing and i am thoroughly jelous!!! i work in a supermarket and i get so bored, any ideas how i could accuratly predict the price of people shopping, i never get it right and its terribly frustrating, or any other games i could play while im sitting there slowly dying lol Jx
Brilliant! Thank you Derren fo a wonderful show. You somehow managed to re-enforce a thought that I had had for some time now, that given enough time anyone, barring any mental or physical disability, is just as able to do anything as anyone else, what stops them is a lack of self belief. This show showed that perfectly, maybe people will start to listen to me now!
Absolutely loved the show! You done so much for Matt. Changed his life! If I ever meet you in a bar, drinks are on me good sir!
I’m curious about this point Derren, did you have a back-up? If Matt had not volunteered, were you working on someone else like Matt concurrently in case he didn’t go for it? I’m not implying that there was anything fake, just want to understand how much you had riding on Matt for this show. Or it might that you would have just shown Matt not rising up to the task. Hard to imagine though as that would have been devastating to Matt’s personal life had he not answered the call.
I’m a big admirer of your work. Look forward to seeing more of them.
Matt was amazing and inspiring and I hope he doesnt take the questioning of the show to much to heart, no matter what the technicalites of filming or editing, he stood up and volunteered to land a plane he believed was going to crash, and that makes him a truly remarkable human being.
Excellent entertainment. Had me in floods of tears, but it also worries me greatly. Evidently Matt’s personality has been changed permanently. Although the edit makes it seem like all the changes are positive, there could be some nasty surprises in the future. I fear that Matt’s personality might have been changed so irrevocably that his friends and family will struggle to cope. Maybe his girlfriend actually preferred it when he was a layabout. What happens if his new found confidence leads to risky behaviour which he can’t control? I fear the guy may become so full of himself for being a “hero”, that he’ll leave his girlfriend, or she’ll leave him because “he’s not the man I fell in love with”.
It’s rather creepy that you can alter someone’s life for “entertainment”, but I guess he vlntrd
Sadly some people think so little of human potential that they will have to dismiss this as a ‘fake’. The truth however is that there are those who have and do perform heroic acts just like this frequently. And there are those who can and do dramatically change their lives
We need more of this on TV. It was utterly inspiring and I was genuinely moved. Also really glad Derren is using his fantastic gifts to effect positive change in the world rather than just entertain and bust ‘psychics’.
You ach amaze me :]
I cannae wait till the tour dates come out again, i missed last years but i’ll be sure tae come see you next year. X
Ever considered selling a fear of flying help service?! Would be brilliant! Great show…. as always.
What were the 5 chapters again? Crisis ,Realisation, Embrace Risk, ? ,Face Fear
I known the show is a piece of art and art and stories are meant to inspire, but I really liked the sentiment and think there was some useful ideas put into action.
i loved hero – it was amaze, i cannae wait for more shows in the future :]
x
Just got round to watching the show, and quite frankly, I’m amazed. Probably the most audacious thing I’ve seen done anywhere, and to call it inspirational is the understatement of the century. I’m quite sure it will change a lot of people who saw it; it’s certainly started me off thinking about my own life. Thank you Derren.
Once you have experienced something like this you realise it’s possible.
When I was at University, I was hypnotised in a stage show. Whilst on stage it was the weirdest feeling I had ever experienced. It was like I was outside my body watching somebody else control it.
The scary part was how you can be made to forget about something. The guy gave us some “stolen money” and told us to hide it and then apparently he told us to forget where it was hidden. It was only when I was walking home about 3 hours later that I felt something in my shoe. I took my shoe off and it was stuffed with torn up pieces of newspaper. My friends told me that was the stolen money I had hidden. To all those sceptics out there once you have experienced it, you will appreciate what your sub conscious is capable of
Hey Derren I loved all your shows especially the events and the russian roulette one. I was wondering whether you would make, have made or if you are in the process of making another hero programme or even something completely different. Sorry if you have already announced something and I have missed it.
I am amazed – after watching the show my cravings for drugs have dried up totally. if this is a knock on effect of hero at 30,000ft then thats strong stuff Derren is putting out there! some other cravings have also diminished…but hopefully will comeback…
bit frightening how he does it but if it works i suppose it must be good medicine
I’m going to break into my local zoo tonight and find a crocodile to stroke…
I’d like to say how much respect I have for you and your work. It is impossible to convince an entire country of what you have done, but that simply proves how skilled you are. By being doubted you have created a sense of wonder and disbelief, making your actions seem unreal. That surely proves that a lot of effort and thought has gone into everything. One question: what’s next??
I’m surprised that so many people found the show to be implausable. It wasn’t a great leap in new techniques or shocking stunts from the Heist. I personally found the Heist to be more impressive because of it’s leap. But perhaps the greatest thing that made the Heist more impressive, was that I personally would be far more likely to be willing to try to land a plane in an emergency than rob an armored car.
Not to say that Hero wasn’t wonderful, it certainly was. I particularly like how you’re helping someone (and the viewers) change their lives in a very positive way. I also loved your piece with the pianist for the same reason. Since you do have these amazing capabilities, I’d love to see you helping people out more like this. Thanks.
Thank you, Derren.
Truly inspirational, as always. You, and your team, are the most charismatic, patient and enlightening ‘teachers’ I have ever had. Matt’s journey was a wonder to behold, and I thank you for allowing me to watch.
I can only watch and learn, and hope to carry some of those lessons with me in my life.
Cant wait for the next programme.
Thankyou for answering my question, i did find the whole thing fascinating and very entertaining, cant wait to see what you can come up with next!
Hey,
Derren I love you! But as a 757 trainee I have one problem with this. I noticed that after he landed he just got up and walked out, however at one camera cut all systems were up and running, next cut…none were not even the APU or IRS alignment which to me is strange, as he landed and it was all shut down, anyone shed any light onto this… its just not possible!! Could it have been some other explination like frame rate of camera or light or … i dunno!?
Derren I want to be your apprentice, to carry on your work if you get this all the time by all means throw me in the not to read pile. Im intelligent and crave the direction you give, answer please
I am not sure if this post will make the blind bit of difference or not but here goes….
Derrens mission in life is to ‘be kind’. Anyone who has read his section in ‘Atheists Guide to Christmas’ would get a feeling for this… and it shows with his genuinosity in this show (made that up
thats he is a loving caring guy. Also, he is a very proud and disciplined individual. He has a rule of ‘no stooges’ whether he is mentioning his trademark disclaimer or not. He is ‘honest about his dishonesty’ as he has also put it.
Also, I am not sure if it has escaped many peoples attention, that he is a dab hand at pattern interruption ‘hypnosis’ and rather good at suggestion… should this not explain part of the show? No? I wish I could explain more but I have run out of characters
Derren, random question here – but I came to see your show in Norwich a few months ago, ***TOUR SPOILER REMOVED***
By the way, loved hero. Certainly some of the best work you have done so far. So happy for Matt and his accomplishments since you started working with him. Big fat well done sir!
Hello, I’m sure the 170 something comments may be a little tiresome now, but I’ m a little surprised noboby has yet to mention that all planes, (at least I thought) has a co-pilot – for security? I know during this time in such a state of fear and panic, this may not cross your mind. But then if I was looking around the plane, checking who can pilot a plane (that wasn’t me) Well, I think I would be asking that question.
But, that’s not the point. As ever, Derren reminds us of our short, but beautiful lives. Not to be wasted! How easy for us all to be trapped in daily scheduled routes in life. That sometimes you need to take a risk, chase your dreams and live life to the full. I know it sounds cliche, but I’ve always believed in this ethos. I would rather be ashes than dust! – Jack London
I know this is a derogatory question?
But will there be more Heroes?
Well in a programming sense?
excllent show watched it twice ……. more please x
It has been said already but I think that posting that is brilliant commitment, it has actually added a lot to the show for me.
Fair play.
Luke
Just like to say after watching the show it has amaized me and opened my eyes to alot of aspects in my life which really can do with a bit of change. Your work is great and I have alot of admiration and respect for you and your work. Hope to see you live at one of your shows in the near future.
Take Care
Ashley
Derren, I’m an avid fan and was very excited about seeing ‘Hero’. My goodness. I was moved to actual tears. So much admiration for you and your skills. You would be one of my 5 ‘who would you invite to a fantasy dinner party’ guests.
) any more tours / books in the pipeline? My copy of Tricks of the Mind is falling apart at the seams!
I am not quite sure if you will ever receive this (and this is probably the wrong post to reply to), but in the end that’s not important. I want to thank you deeply for bringing tears to my eyes at the end of seeing this show. At times when thinking about my life I have felt very lonely, wanting to scream: “wake up, you’re all alive”. Even with my closest friends it’s very hard to communicate just how special life is and that all they would ever want is within their grasp.
This show gives me another tool to reach my friends and get a deeper bond with people. Thank you again, but more importantly, enjoy (free and without any doubts) the feeling you created for yourself with this.
Cheers Erik
If you can programme a person to feel like a hero, why aren’t the FBI/CIA/US Army paying you an absolute fortune to turn their spies/troops into lethal assassins with no fear whatsoever? Maybe they have someone else with similar powers of suggestion. As a pessimist, I can’t help but worry about how your techniques could be used by the secret services to turn “nice but dim” people into cold-blooded killers. I’m glad you’re using your skills in positive ways, mainly as entertainment. There must be some people out there that are using mind control in a much more disturbing manner. There’s probably a “Derren Muhammed” working for Al-Qaeda, who convinces people to become suicide bombers, and another guy that gets US pilots to drop bombs innocent civilians. Mind control can be a very scary tool.
Derren, I am 21 years old and also possess the power to suggest. I would like to say, although electronically, thank you. You have been a major role model in my life and not only have I been entertained by your shows, I have learnt new ways, only that of someone possessing the skill to do so if you get my drift.
My family are skeptics. Unless there is sufficient evidence to prove a theory, its a no go, which is frustrating when watching your shows with them. I will never know how you achieve the feats you perform, but man can only wonder.
Derren, Thankyou
Hi Derren. This show was truly amazing and inspiring, it felt like I was taking the journey too! Are there any plans for an extended version to include the parts you had to cut due to time restraints??
“The amount of work in securing his well-being without him knowing (the constant checks with work and home and foreseeing every eventuality) would have made a documentary in itself.”
It would be really interesting to have a follow-up programme on one of these shows that goes into some of the behind-the-scenes information. I think it would help people believe that it really is all genuine if they see just how much work goes into it all!
I actually think this guy is brilliant but I don’t believe some of the programme was real.
However… I do believe that Derren HAS abilities that he is not sharing with the public. Gifts that the human race needs to discover about itself.
Is he dangerous? If you don’t understand him or his gifts, most definitley.
A fantastic entertainer who I would pay to watch always. His true power needs to be disclosed and not hidden under the cloud of a magician!
Is he welcome in my home?
No.
Would I ever entitle him to enter the perimeter of my mind?
No.
Have I ever gave him permission to come near me?
No.
Have I got anything to hide?
No.
Does he know this?
Yes.
Would I give him permission if he ever asked me?
Who Knows.
Would I ever want to be his friend?
Yes.
keep the programmes coming I say.
P
Well done Derren a great show, dont know how you come up with so many things in such a format, you are a creative genius and took many risks here!However, I felt it did come over a little bit too Tony Robbins: I personally like it better when you show your demonic side a little more!
Cant wait for your next show!
What did Matt do with the van and party goods afterwards? I feel that this section of the show was the least convincing of all,
Philip, if you’re implying that Derren has paranormal abilities, I’d be inclined to disagree. He does things we can all learn how to do — he’s just particularly good at them. I don’t think he can ‘enter’ anyone’s mind in ways above and beyond ‘manipulation’ (though I dislike using that word because of its negative connotations), body language and, of course, gripping television (this show has definitely ‘entered my mind’ in a very good way!
).
By the way — my friends are generally welcome in my home…
I don’t no why after watching the show I burst into tears, it was like a sudden realization to make a change in my life, and i feel compelled to change my life for the better. Its like I feel a can do anything if you put your mind to it.x
watched the programme 4 times already.Keep putting it on for people. Most amazin thing i have ever seen. I am petrified of flying amongst other things. Never take risks. Have tried Hypnosis twice and they were unable to put me under for some reason. Gutted as i really wanted it to work, So wish Derren could sort me out.
I think it’s a shame that Channel 4 OD doesn’t allow persons outside the UK to watch their shows. I’ve had to take the unforgivable action of downloading the show off a bit torrent site. Won’t someone please think of the American fans?
Hi Derren,
Thanks so much so taking the time to actually answer these questions. I’m sure a lot of them must be annoying to read after all the time and effort you have put into making Hero work, but your such a great person for actually doing so.
Derren your a legend and always will be!
There were so many things of note in this show that I was not convinced about, but you have respsonded to most already, which is terrific. I still have an issue with the crocodile scene though;. You have said it was raining and we could only see it on your side due to back-lighting – usually I would accept this, but Matts coat (I’m assuming G.Star) was bone dry, not a drop on him. Also the shots of the crocodile platform showed it to be completely dry too. Perhaps it’s just clumsy editing? Thanks,.
The little box .. with the clown on it .. don’t know what the reason was for you putting it there (haven’t seen the programma, not available in my country, saw some parts on the internet) .. doesn’t it remind more people of a fair .. carroussel .. music played at the wrong speed … invertigo .. dizzy …
I know .. nothing to do with the show itself but that’s what’s left for us who could not watch it, who had to do with the bits and pieces thrown out there for us .. the starving ones .. Pretty surreal .. the feel ..
Matt .. hm .. yeah .. Id love to have a chat with him .. might do a little hypnotizing myself as well ..
Michael, if it was just a drizzle, fabric wouldn’t absorb a lot of it, so there’d be dampness but no visible stains. Can’t exactly recall the croc platform atm, but didn’t it have some kind of fabric covering as well? If I’m remembering that properly, that would offer an explanation.
Peter, the Jack-in-the-box (duveltje in een doosje, if my memory serves me correctly and you’re from the same country as I) symbolises Matt getting out of his shell. The box opens further and further as he progresses.
Another great TV show and I’m sure all appreciate you explaining one or two bits from the show.
I also loved the live show, saw it this summer at The Lowry.
I just want you to know, I love you Derren Brown. You are some kind of incredible – even if you do make my brain want to explode out through my ears.
All best wishes for you and for the future, B x
Derren,
Just compliments from me; gushing with kowtowed admiration for this project. Caught it in 10-min slices on youtube (who knew I needed 6 Andrelon adverts to remind me that Hollywood actresses have unrealistic hair from expensive bottles?) Can you please post on your blog when there’s a Matt-made baby called “Matt” (“Because Derren would understand why I can’t call my son Derren”)?
A most wonderful exemplar of inspiration in how a germ of positivism and encouragement can show people that they *can* Lazarus their lives. Watched it mostly in tears, and at the end, when the countdown started, you know… I almost did the dishes.
X
I’m a practicing hypnotheripist and have always been a fan of Derren Browns work. I’ve just read the answers and some of my friends questioned me about the honesty of the show. I was pleased to read that Derran took the time to answer them. The power of the subconscious mind is so powerful. I believe some people will always doubt or question what they don’t fully understand. There’s nothing wrong with it but Derren in my opinion is not fake. It’s all about the power of suggestion. Great show really enjoyed it.
I am still not sure that I’m convinced! but if you did this it would, I think be to make a bad situation better, or to help someone change…for that you needed to know what someone wants I assume., and that what they become is better than before. What if Matt was a git and liked his old life, or part of it. well, maybe it was already lost – he’ll never know. he must look forward now, no other way to look. As the other commentators said, if you like animals, then you are alright in my book.
What a pleasure to hear you use the word joyful several times when you’re talking about this show. I love that softie side to you. x
Hey Derren,
I’d say it was quite healthy for people to question what they saw on the show – and I’m sure you’d agree. A programme which challenges perceptions is a programme that makes good viewing material. I was one of the actresses on the plane with you. Before this time I was not really a follower and would probably have confused you with Paul Mckenna. Since then I have watched some of your stuff on You Tube and it is really mind blowing. I may have mentioned to you that I overcame panic attacks and that was my first time on a plane after 16yrs. I find you really interesting and weird – and there ain’t nothing wrong with being weird ; it just means there’s two of us now! x
http://www.uk.castingcallpro.com/cv/farah.sardar
I’ve been ‘genuinely’ hypnotised in stage performances twice and once by a ‘fake’ hypnotist at our works Xmas party. The fake hypnotist said to me afterwards that I was so convincing, he actually wondered whether he had hypnotised me! My work colleagues were easily fooled.
Read the chapter Hypnosis and Suggestibility in Derren’s book Tricks of the Mind. The key word, being suggestibility, and I’d suggest this show was the ‘fake’. And the ‘real’ show is next..
Watched it last night with my boyfriend who is a trained hypnotist. He thought it was hilarious, I was just totally freaked out! Loving your work Derren. I nearly named my son after you, wish I had now.x
I’ve never been emotional to any extent whilst watching anything, but your show hit me quite hard, in a positive way.
Well done Matt, and thank you DB for being as ever, so inspirational and entertaining. I cannot wait for the next shows..
It is no longer the show or the outcome that makes a lasting impression, but the fascination of how anyone could ‘dream’ up these ideas.
Success! Ofcom are on the case. Excellent news. Well done
Derren, you’re amazing!…. But you turned the poor kid into a trouble maker!! I mean, sure he seized opportunities as they “arose”, but wasn’t it a bit naughty to raid an abandoned van and break in to a police officer’s house? Hope he still has morals after this!
I’m just jealous coz i’d never do the things he did! Excellent show!
MR BROWN YOU’VE DONE IT AGAIN! You amazing little thing!
. Will there be more in that series because at the end you say “and now it’s time to start somebody else’s journey…” and a new timer starts for 30 days…???? ??
Love from a like – minded intellectual, and mostly of all UNPOPULAR AND WIERD (woo!) being.
.
you told matt that everyone has a purpose etc etc ,its a very strong statement to make and i would have to disagree
Well Derren,
I have watched all of your programmes in the recent weeks, and i am astounded not only at your ability to do all of these things, but the warming experiences you bring to people. Its easy to concieve that others in your position would not go to such lengths. I feel that through your programmes you have taken the viewer on a journey, which not only shows how people are suggestable and can be manipulated, but more importantly that the people you have worked with are good people, and in a world such as ours, this gives me such pleasure to watch, especially when there is so much trouble around.
This leads me to pose two questions, im not sure if you will ever read this, but it gives me peace of mind.
What traits indicate a “suggestable” person?
What mischief do you get up to?
charlie: For one, it’s a reference to what Dr Manhattan tells Laurie in Watchmen. Secondly, everyone does have a purpose — not a preordained one, but the purpose you create for yourself. It’s inherent to humanity. We all have goals and wishes that we strive for.
Or, as in a song I’ve always loved, The Power of One (can’t for the life of me recall what artist it is by, sorry…):
“Each of us is chosen
There’s a mission just for you
Just look inside, you’ll be surprised
What you can do”
Hi Derren
I LOVED the show – so much so that I recounted the whole thing to my husband the next day.
I’m intrigued as to how you could predict that Matt would react so positively and not breakdown in relation to the ‘Crisis’ situation in particular? Did you question yourself about the ethics of changing someones life (albeit for the better) did you feel like you were ‘playing god’ a little (you make reference to the whole circus thing frequently in the show. Like you are the ultimate ringmaster – or am I reading too much into that?!)
Can’t wait for the next one … PS could you sort my life out please !
Jo
Watching this encouraged me to finally stand up to the bullies in my workplace.
I’m 24 and work in a hospital. Whilst helping to change others’ lives, I forgot to look after my own.
I don’t feel so hopeless now.
Thank you
for people who doubt the processes of bystander intervention google (or scholar google) Kitty Genovese. It’s the case that Derren has mentioned in his answers above. Very sad case and it resulted in quite a number of psychological studies being completed – and obtain the same results.
If im honest with you, i think the only way this could possibly be not a fake is if your audience choise to believe its not. You are a performer witch triggers a persons natural response of denying anything that seems impossible. Its safe for them to say it was fake instead of taking the desition to try to understand rather than just deny. I believe in your work. I believe that anything you do at the end of the day, weather fake or real is done to entertain and show your talent and is done amazingly. Liam
P.s Saw enigma in Hull erlier this year and it was amazing!
Hey Derren, as always a wonderful piece of tv viewing, keep up the great work my friend. would love to work on a project with you myself.
Best regards
Ritchie Campbell
http://www.hypnotix.org.uk
Dum de dum de dum………So, know any good party tricks Derren???
Magic is real if you believe it so. It’s a basic subjective way of looking at the world. We make God and magic real by recognising them as our thoughts, our perceptions inside. Read Derrida and some of the more recent philosophers. Define magic anyway. A person from the middle ages would regard television as real and impossible. To me Derren is an interesting part of my subconscious like I am Sam Tyler in Life on Mars. Can’t deny his showmanship though and respect to the positive successy science and psychology of Hero. Would be interested to see him work with an equal to him magically, who knows the score. Could Derren still influence such a person without them realising? I’m bipolar and have done more this year than in the last 20. Can I get to Dharamsala though with few resources?
Thank you for a very inspiring show and definitely the best yet. It was not only thought provoking but emotional too. I was in tears on and off throughout and felt so chuffed for Matt at the end, seeing what he had achieved and the people (some strangers) there showing genuine support and goodwill for him having done it. Roll on the next one, Derren! You are amazing. Matt was very brave, I downloaded the application form but chickened out upon reading info required, as was too apprehensive as to what may happen. Wish I had done it now!!
Question: at the end of the show, there was another 30 day countdown….is another one brewing?
You said the flight simulators are based in Southampton, I assume you mean Southampton airport, if so i live about 5 minutes walk away from there, very frustrating as I am a big fan, would also of loved to see one of your shows if they didn’t sell out, I also believe I have some of the same problems as matt had and this was truly inspiring, thank you and keep up the good work, mail back if you can as well would be appreciated.
Still waiting derren…
Derren, I am a huge fan and have your tricks of the mind book and have seen your enigma show live in my hometown which was just fantastic. I am a believer of you and I love the way you actually explain (where possible!) how everything you do was real. I do have one question that I was hoping to find an answer to on here, but for some reason it isn’t answered or may not have been asked of you yet. When Matt obtained all the party stuff and invited his neighbours out into the street for a party it appeared to be at the time of day where people would be at work yet so many of his nieghbours were free to come out. I have tried to work out my own answer for this but have drawn a blank. An answer would be most appreciated
Love the work
I have only just seen this after a friend highly recommended it saying it has inspired her own change. I loved it. I am currently studying NLP and similar techniques to aid change in myself and others and I found this programme truly inspiring. Thank you. And best wishes to Matt!
Wow – I have read the answers to common questions but still suspicious.
Derren Brown himself is a skeptic and I would like other peoples comments on this issue regarding getting someone to sleep hypnotically in the midsts of volinteering in an emergency.
I am a hypnotist and practice hypnotherapy regularly, I have also read much about the subject – however it just seems too extreme to get him to sleep on the way to the cockpit to land the airoplane !!!!
1. The degree of anxiety, physiological state, expectations etc – all seem to make this extremely unlikely
2. Is matt is THAT SUGGESTIBLE as to fall asleep on the suggestion on the way to the cockpit do you really want him in the police force ! (Ok I know it might be suggestibility only to Derren Brown)
Continuing on this super suggestibility topic:
Can people list the key points that make them believe this is genuine hypnosis by maklng matt go to sleep on the way to the cockpit ?
Perhaps I am limited in my hypnotic education (even if practicing it and studying it for 7 years)
It just……..well……………unbelievable !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hmm there is just one more question- will there be a next show, I mean that was quite obvious that Derren pressed a button in the end, that could signal, that there is yet another victim up ahead
Oh, My friend said something I didn’t notice before as well- Okay so you change this guys life for the better, but it was still wrong! after me asking why- this is what he replied – well – the guy didn’t agree with changing, did he? All he did was apply for a game show. Sounds to me, like Derren got involved pretty much without being asked.
Well, I’ve seen people int he past that can do instant hypnosis.
Trust me, there have been shows like that on TV as well even in the 90′s (perhaps 80′s) where some guys would instantly hypnotise people within a group, one after the other.
So it is possible.
Sure they probaly cast them beofre to make sure they have a personality that could work with hypnosis but it is by no means fake.
And I’m a pure skeptic, so not trying to bullshit
there are a lot of videos on youtube as well, they can’t all be fake
Hello Derren,
Excellent show – but how spooky I have been looking for a friend for over 10 years that I lost touch with – I googled his name and he was s one of your rigger on the show! Any chance of passing on my details?
Thanks
Kay
Hi can you tell me where I can get the jack in the boxes that u use. I want to get a few for my brother in law that is a massive fan
Hey man! I’m a BIG 21-year-old fan from Sweden.
I REALLY enjoyed the show! By far the coolest thing i’ve ever seen! It really got to me! I cried at the end, it was really emotional!
Because of recent events in my life i’ve felt quite down lately. After watching this one i really felt like it got to me. Just five minutes after the end i decided to go out for a walk. This was at 4.30 am, i had been up all night, plus i had recently been sick and it was very cold outside. So i went out, not knowing where i was heading. I didn’t get far before i saw an open door. A door that looked like it is supposed to be closed. As i was staring at that open door i was reminded of that time when Matt went in the policemans house. I considered entering that door just for the heck of it. I did not enter thou
Just seconds after passing that door, i see a rabbit! Witch i think is rather uncommon in these sorts of areas. As i approach this rabbit it didnt seem afraid of me, it was really wierd. But eventually it ran off, but only to a place where i could se it even better. The rabbit stayed there as i was standing still watching it. I just stood there in the cold watching this rabbit. No one was out there, not even cars were out. As i ran out of paitence watching the rabbit, i whistled at it with no response, it didnt move. So i kept on walking towards it, then it ran off, not to far though. I followed it further but it slowly ran around stopping at some places. But eventually we got back to the same spot as before. The rabbit was surprisingly calm the whole time. After a while i headed home but
then i saw the rabbit following me, at least it seemed that way. But then it ran off. This whole encounter was really wierd. And it would not have happend if it weren’t for your awesome show. It was not a very special thing that happend but i hope that greater things will happen now. Because i feel quite diffrent.
I hope that this program will inspire more people to do something they would not normally do.
Thank you for an awesome show and keep up the good work!
I have suffered from depression since the age of 14, I’m 26 now. Anyone who has suffered for any period from this debilitating, but often trivialised, illness will know that it is a constant struggle, even when you have ‘recovered.’ Particularly difficult is when you are going through a depressive phase and you are not sure to what extent it is the illness stopping you from doing something, or your own fears outside of the disorder.
For this reason I watch, and rewatch, this episode (Hero) when I feel I am stopping myself from doing something that is outside of control of the medication I am on. For every day I actively work against the life I have been given, I try to remind myself that its simple existence is something to be celebrated. That is huge, for me. Thank you.
I would just like to say having watched this recently on 4oD, I was sceptical. I have been a huge fan for many years and your work has always fascinated me, but the things such as the train scenario really struck me as not possible. I had a look around and eventually found my way to your blog and here and was pleasantly suprise to see you addressing so many questions.
It’s refreshing to see you take the time to address the cynics and I’m pretty satisfied. Keep up the good work Derren.
I am a dinner dance illusionist and I take my hat off to you Derren. My hypnosis skills are nowhere near as accomplished as yours. I also find that your live stage shows on 4od are particularly useful as I can watch and see how my illusions (such as the nail up the nose illusion) can be performed by a true professional. You and the Masked Magician from the ITV4 program ‘breaking the magicians code’ are my Idols.
Hey Derren. I was wondering if or when you where deciding to do a new episode of Hero to Zero? I’ve just watched it again with my sister and it’s so inspiring. At the end of the episode you start a count down – I was hoping this meant there would be a new episode to follow?
Thank you so much for this blog entry. I only just watched Hero on YouTube this evening (I’m in the US), and you answered any questions I had and then some. I really enjoyed watching Matt’s journey and cried at the ending. Beautiful.
Derren, just wanted to say your stuff is excellent. I have but one complaint (and to be honest, it’s really with the folks at Channel 4), and that is that 4OD is not available in the States. I’ve been ransacking the internet to find your stuff, and it’s not coming easily. Other than that small blip, keep up the excellent work!
Hi Derren,
I’ve saw all of your programs and I’m looking forward to your tour. I saw this program today as I was browsing through the site to see if there were anymore programs I might of missed, this one caught my eye. I found this one inspiring because at this current moment I am going through a similar thing, I was sat on my sofa nearly crying with happiness when he finally gained my confidence and self respect.. One of my goals and this program will now inspire me to achieve mine
Thank you in advance, I admire your work.
Hope to see you on tour soon
Kerrie
Your stuff is legendary, and your explanations all make sense – your book ‘Tricks of the Mind’ was a wonderous read, so on behalf of your legions of fans, I say thank-you for sharing many of your methods with us.
I have 2 questions. If you could take the time to answer to my email or publicly here, that would be awesome
1) How come only select features you have done appear on DVD? Eg, The Specials only contains 4 out of 6, and there are only 2 out of 3 seasons of Trick of the Mind available.
…And now the biggie:
2) With your increasing popularity and known status, how is it that people don’t think it’s you pulling strings? I often imagine that I’m a subject of one of your shows, and I wouldn’t be able to put that thought out of my head!!
Looking forward to your next aspiration
Derren is brilliant and pure genius, I am a huge huge fan. Rumor has it he may perform in New York state a Svengali show in 12/2012. Anyone know if this is true? Been wanting to see him for years and this could be my only chance, as I reside in the US and lack the funds to travel to UK!
Msg from Abeo: http://derrenbrown.co.uk/blog/2011/11/york-state-mind/