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The Babysitter and the Man Upstairs

Threatening calls come while babysitting. Police trace them. 'The calls are coming from inside the house!' The children are already dead. He's been upstairs the whole time. 'Have you checked the children?'

1960s - Present
USA
1000000+ witnesses

This legend became horror’s most iconic twist.

The Story

What happens:

  • Babysitter gets calls
  • Heavy breathing
  • “Have you checked the children?”
  • Calls police
  • Traced inside

The Twist

“The call is coming from inside the house!”:

  • Most famous line
  • Instant icon
  • Copied endlessly
  • Still effective
  • Perfect horror

Real Incidents

Some basis:

  • Janett Christman (1950)
  • Missouri murder
  • While babysitting
  • Details differ
  • Inspired legend?

When a Stranger Calls

1979 film:

  • Based on legend
  • Carol Kane starred
  • Iconic opening
  • 2006 remake
  • Legend immortalized

The Fear

What it represents:

  • Children vulnerable
  • Babysitter isolated
  • Threat already inside
  • False security
  • Inescapable danger

Cultural Impact

Lasting influence:

  • Scream (1996)
  • Countless parodies
  • Safety awareness
  • Horror template
  • Urban legend apex

Sources

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