When I stumbled across a photograph of a mysterious woman on the internet, I was both attracted and disturbed. I had an immediate sense that this beautiful woman had a strange frightening quality.

As I dug deeper, I realised my instincts were right.

Tonight on Frightful we explore the disturbing story of Anne Hamilton Byrne, a cult leader who systematically stole children to create loving community for herself called ‘The Family.' She forced the kids to wear matching tracksuits and bleaching their hair blonde makes for an eerie sight…but this was the least of her horrors.

Brace yourself for tonight’s Frightful, which may be upsetting to some listeners due to references to child cruelty. Yet the story is a fascinating exploration of one of the few female cult leaders.

Meet Anne Hamilton Byrne…better known as ‘The Most Evil Woman in Australia’.

Join our Patreon.

Visit us online.

Find us on all podcasting platforms.

Help support our show through Patreon.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Episode Sponsor:

Get Started at chime.com/frightful