The Exorcism of Roland Doe and the Tanacu Exorcism

In this episode we examine two of the most debated cases of alleged possession: the story of Roland Doe in late 1940s America and the Tanacu exorcism in 2005 Romania.

Roland Doe was a Maryland teenager whose strange experiences began after using a Ouija board with his aunt. Following her death, the family reported scratching noises, objects moving, and beds shaking whenever Roland was nearby. The activity eventually led to a series of exorcisms performed by Jesuit priests in St. Louis. Witnesses described violent contortions, objects levitating, and words appearing scratched into the boy’s skin. After weeks of ritual and struggle, the priests claimed the possession ended when Roland cried out that the demon was gone. He later recounted a vision of Saint Michael driving out the evil. His case became the basis for the novel and film The Exorcist and continues to raise questions about whether the events were spiritual, psychological, or a combination of both.

Half a world away and decades later, another case would shock the public. In 2005, at a small Orthodox convent in Tanacu, Romania, a young novice named Maricica Irina Cornici began showing signs of distress. She had been diagnosed with schizophrenia at a local hospital but was released to the convent’s care. Believing she was possessed, the priest and several nuns chose to perform an exorcism rather than return her to medical treatment. Irina was restrained, bound to a wooden cross, and kept in isolation while prayers were said. She was given little food or water and died during transport to the hospital. 

The Tanacu exorcism divided Romania. Many saw it as a tragedy of faith overtaking reason, while others believed Irina truly suffered from demonic possession. 

Both cases sit at the intersection of faith, psychology, and ethics. Each asks the same difficult question: when does an exorcism become an act of faith, and when does it become harm? 

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The You Two Scare Me Podcast is hosted by Andi Zyvith and Feliz AndrewsOriginal Music by Stefan Tatka

Disclaimer: The You Two Scare Me Podcast is intended for entertainment purposes only. The views, opinions, and discussions presented in this show are those of the hosts and guests, and should not be considered factual statements, professional advice, or verified accounts. Our content often includes folklore, paranormal stories, urban legends, and speculative material, which may not be historically accurate. Listener discretion is advised, as some episodes may include sensitive themes such as death, violence, or trauma. All stories are shared with respect for the cultures and communities connected to them, and no harm or offense is intended.