Derren Brown explains why he decided to pull an elaborate prank on one man. Beyond the pale even for someone who once convinced a woman she died in a car accident, in his new special Apocalyse Derren ends the entire world. At least for his subject.
But why? Beyond the fact that it’s great television.
Derren explains the noble intentions for the program. Consider his demented exercise defibrillation paddles for a man suffering from a crippling entitlement attack.
Most importantly for me, as well as Steven, the changes have to be profound and self-perpetuating. The challenge is to set up new thought patterns that won’t just grind to a halt after the initial adrenaline of being involved in a TV show has worn off. I have maintained a relationship with Steven and continue to ensure that the work was all worth it. Which is, along with the joy of going to such great lengths for one unsuspecting person’s experience, the best part of the job.
Derren also explains the process for which Steven had to complete to get on the show including interviews with several mental health officials who cleared him to participate.
Apocalypse airs tonight at 9 p.m. on Channel 4 in the UK.