Have you ever tried to email a celebrity, I mean a really famous person? Someone like Brad Pitt or Marylyn Manson or Johnny Depp? I have. I make short animated films when I'm not making music. Those films are narrated by singers and there have been times when I've emailed a musician or two, someone you could call a "rock star", to see if they might be interested in narrating one of these films. It's always been a little discouraging when I don't even get a reply. If you've ever sent a fan letter or email to someone of that stature, you know the feeling I'm talking about. It leads you to wondering why these people don't answer their own email. Hell, even bands that could BARELY be considered "minor local celebrities" sometimes feel they are above reading fan mail and responding to it. But the truth is, that there are VERY good reasons why these super famous people are not easy to reach. For one, there is the issue of sheer bulk. I read all of my email, Myspace, Facebook mail, etc.. and it takes at least a couple of hours a day. And I respond to as much of it as possible. Now, I understand that I'm a public person on a certain level and that people are bound to write to me. And I do my very best to read it all and to be available to people who wish to talk to me. It's my way of showing my appreciation to the people who support what I do. So now, knowing how much email I get and how long it takes to deal with , I shudder at the thought of how many emails Justin Timberlake must get everyday.
The fact is, these people simply CAN'T read their fan mail. It's just not physically possible.
There is another reason, too. Stalkers.
Sadly, there are simply people in this world who have crazy ideas about things. David Letterman had been plagued for years by a fan who believed she was his wife. She broke into his house, she stole his car and drove it around town, she violated his privacy and his feeling of safety in his own home. And while he has always been really good at eliciting a good laugh from a difficult situation, I assure it that it gets to be a very creepy and scary feeling when someone who is mentally unstable decides that you are big part of their life and sets out to prove it. Eventually, that woman killed herself. On the air he said something to the extent of, "It is the sad end to a confused life."
Bjork had a stalker as well who killed himself, but not before he sent her an acid bomb! Had it not been intercepted by the police, she could have been disfigured, maimed or even killed! The fact is, that if you are a public person in any capacity, you can become the focus of a confused person who feels that you play a bigger and more personal part of their life than is reasonable. And it gets even creepier when they start to refer to your family members and love ones.
Sadly, I'm presently having such an experience.
The emails started normally enough. She sent a booking request which was really just a veiled attempt to have some sort of personal contact with me. This woman from Austin, Texas quickly started to seem weird when she started to talk about her involvement in cults and began sending me really personal information that seemed out of place in a booking request. She was keen to say she was a published author, but a 5-minute search proved her book was really just a "vanity pressing". In any case, when I realized she was not a legitimate booking agent but rather a love-struck, crazed fan, I politely declined to do the show. And then the truth came out and the love letters began. And when I politely asked her to stop emailing me, the hate mail began as well, schizophrenically interspersed with more love letters. And they just got weirder and weirder. Now she claims I married her when I she was seventeen. I think I'd remember that! I'd like to point out again for the record that I do not know this woman! Well, anyway, normally, I wouldn't publish emails people send me, but since I asked her to stop and she didn't care to, I'm going to guess she wants the attention and won't mind of I share them with you. Perhaps this will give you all a brief window into what we musicians, actors and artists have to deal with from time to time. Honestly, sometimes it makes you want to stop reading emails....
Just one last note... these emails have not been edited in any way (with the exception of some financial information which I changed to "$NNNN"). Also every single email we exchanged is included here so if there are ten posts from her in a row, that means that I did not reply to any of them. There are no emails from me in between them that you are not seeing.
And so it begins.
ello! Fri, August 14, 2009 7:26:34 PM
From: Susan Lee
To: voltairenyc@yahoo.com
My name is Susan. I am a published author and artist working with Lifeworks to have a fundraiser at the Hilton. How much do you want to play?
*********************************
From: voltaire voltaire Subject: Re: ello!
To: "Susan Lee" Date: Sunday, August 16, 2009, 10:58 PM
Susan, What's the date of the event and what city is it in?
Voltaire
**********************************
Re: ello! Mon, August 17, 2009 8:57:16 PM
From: Susan Lee
To: voltaire voltaire
it's going to be in austin. i have it in my calendar for february 12. i thought you guys would be perfect for a little black heart theme. i don't know if you guys remember me, but i talked to your drummer and violinist about my book and doing teamwork at the elysium when you were here in april.
***********************************
From: Susan Lee
Subject: Re: ello!
To: "voltaire voltaire"
Date: Thursday, August 20, 2009, 3:22 PM
Hello Again!
I wanted you to know a little more. I was a child in the foster care system, and have seen many of my friends fall to the streets because they don't have a family. Not many can come out and say they have a book published, so I wanted to do something that promoted opportunity for the youth that are on the streets, and complete a series about my life in the system. People want to know more about it, and support the ambition.
You could promote me with the show or possibly talk with me about getting a grant from the state, promos, and sponsors. There's about six different volumes of grants in the public library or more that have thousands of pages. I can do the footwork for just about anything, as far as gathering info goes. But you're gonna have to tell me what you want and be willing to work with me. Maybe even hire me if that's your forte.
The book is basically a Steven King's version of Lifetime. It is currently on hold for editing purposes. I still think lifetime sucks, but since my ex-husband was trash, and we were in a cult together, I figured it would be a fruitful opportunity.
Keep in touch,
Susan
P.S., When is your next show? We should smoke a blunt together in the backroom.
**********************************
From: voltaire voltaire
Subject: Re: ello!
To: "Susan Lee"
Date: Thursday, August 20, 2009, 8:29 PM
My requirements for a solo acoustic show are thus:
$NNN ( a 50% deposit is required to confirm the show and secure the date. No promotion can begin until a deposit has been paid.)
roundtrip airfare for one to and from NYC
a hotel room for the night of the show.
As for the other stuff... I don't apply to grants, I never have so I have no info to share.
I don't hire writers. I have no need to. I'm not really sure why you would think a singer would need to hire a writer.
And I don't smoke pot.
V
***********************************
From: Susan Lee
Subject: Re: ello!
To: "voltaire voltaire"
Date: Monday, August 24, 2009, 1:32 PM
i'm looking for the whole band. are they the same people and do the same charges apply?
************************************
From: voltaire voltaire
Subject: Re: ello!
To: "Susan Lee"
Date: Tuesday, August 25, 2009, 5:01 AM
NO, it's not necessarily the same people. And the charges are greater. You'd have to fly in 5 people, house them in a hotel and the guarantee would be $NNNN. In other words, it's much more.
v
**************************************
Re: ello!
Thu, August 27, 2009 4:06:48 PM
From: Susan Lee
Add to Contacts
To: voltaire voltaire
can you give me a total of everything so we can the ball rolling?
***************************************
Re: ello!
Tue, September 8, 2009 2:31:09 PM
From: Susan Lee
Add to Contacts To: voltaire voltaire
hey, i'm not trying to stress you or anything, but it may take a while to get the check. you are right, though, it may be easier if you did the job solo. give me some time. where can i send the check to? and do you have a fax number for paperwork?
****************************************
From: voltaire voltaire
Subject: Re: ello! To: "Susan Lee"
Date: Tuesday, September 8, 2009, 6:57 PM
Sorry, but I have a conflict of interest in Austin. I have two shows booked there as part of a tour (one in fall and one in spring) so I really can't do any other Austin shows for the next 12 months. Sorry about that.
Voltaire
***************************************
Re: ello!
Tue, September 8, 2009 3:56:30 PM
From: Susan Lee
Add to Contacts To: voltaire voltaire
when is your next show? i want to see you!!!
***************************************
Re: ello!
Tue, September 8, 2009 3:59:47 PM
From: Susan Lee
Add to Contacts To: voltaire voltaire
Please?
****************************************
MY BOOK
Mon, September 14, 2009 4:14:19 PM
From: Susan Lee
Add to Contacts To: elizabeth.rison@hilton.com Cc: voltairenyc@yahoo.com; Sal Cipolla ; lori rosenthal ; Ben Harman ; will gallagher ; myron smith ; FARZAD ARABPOUR ... more
hey check this out, here is a link to my book. i should be doing dj at the clubs to promote. please buy and forward link. anyone who buys will get an autograph for your support at future events. http://books.barnesandnoble.com/search/results.aspx?WRD=baphomet+by+susan+lee&box=baphomet%20by%20susan%20lee&pos=-1
-susan
****************************************
I Love Voltaire!
Tue, September 15, 2009 5:37:12 PM
From: Susan Lee
Add to Contacts
To: voltairenyc@yahoo.com
where you at? i wanted you to know that i don't write the news. i only wrote a book because i have been in the cults for almost four years. well, i hope the tours do well. oh, and it would be nice if you did something to show CPS that you were there for me. i'm actually a really cool person, and i find it sad that you degraded me on stage. i was a very suppotive fan and wanted a bit more than just a fuck.
susan
******************************************
Re: ello!
Mon, September 21, 2009 4:45:13 PM
From: Susan Lee
Add to Contacts To: voltaire voltaire
hey look, i want to apologise for being difficult. i'm still your fan and i still think your sexy. i'd like to have you froggy style sometime. i just stopped having guys around after my divorce, and don't want any ogres trying to put their hands on me. and i don't mean that your an ogre, but most men don't know what the fuck they're doing. i also made some fiesta chicken nachos for lunch. Yum! toasty onions and portabella mushrooms on some corn tortilla chips dripping with melted cheese, sour cream, and guacamole! next time i'll send a pic.
-susan
****************************************
festivities
Thu, October 8, 2009 4:37:38 PM
From: Susan Lee
Add to Contacts To: will gallagher Cc: mystique282002@yahoo.com; austinschoolofburlesque@yahoo.com; nephandius@hotmail.com; cahnman@hotmail.com; void.machine@yahoo.com; stoney_prox@yahoo.com; jerryjaysaldana@yahoo.com; camponboxeo@yahoo.com; jayburnell@rocketmail.com; bravenec@satx.rr.com; caseycasey420@gmail.com... more
Sorry about the inconvenience, but the masked ball on the 8th at the gothic club Elysium has been canceled and moved to another date and location. Festivities will be on October 31st, 2009, at the on 1640A E. 2nd St. suite 100, Austin, TX 78702. 10% of event proceeds will be forwarded to the Adapt Non-profit Organization. if you are interested in promoting your products or business by providing a game booth, attatch inquiries and resumes, and RSVP by e-mail. i will be reviewing team members on tuesday Oct 13 from 1:00pm- 4:30pm, and friday the 16th at the same times. all potluck providers will recieve a free raffle ticket worth $25 for a chance to win a piece from one of my collections. whoever has a copy of my latest book, Baphomet the Apocalypse, bring it to me at the event and i will sign it for you. please forward e-mail to friends, family, juggalos, jugglettes, and other supporters. AND DON'T FORGET TO WEAR A COSTUME FOR A HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
Susan Lee
****************************************
Re: ello!
Wed, October 21, 2009 4:34:47 PM
From: Susan Lee
Add to Contacts To: voltaire voltaire
my love, you make me think like a cat yowling for puss in boots. if you could ever open up that dark heart of yours and practice some kama sutra with me, i promise you'll feel like sweet warm body melting sensation, like softness. i wish i could jump up on your lap, to recieve your warm touch all over my back, and kiss you so that you'd come for more. your are like a flower blooming on a summer day, waiting for a butterfly to collect your honey. for you, i can be that butterfly, but you will have to kiss my wings and love them. those bumble bees are many, and may also collect, but their wings come with stingers, and when they sting, they lose their flight.
p.s. come to the party.
**************************************
violinist
Sun, October 25, 2009 3:55:20 PM
From: Susan Lee
Add to Contacts To: voltairenyc@yahoo.com
you know you violinist tried to cop a feel on me after i took a pic. fuck that guy. all i wanted was you in the first place, but you can't understand a woman's problems, because i got attacked by a rapist fucking stung with pioson ivy because i'm wood romping belly dancing, tarot card reader with a published book and a halloween party to fundraise so that i could see you again! i want to go to your next show and wear and out fit, but i know all you're going to do is treat me like shit and make me feel miserable because i paid for your ticket! i expect you to do something about that jerk and your masogonistic attitude!
***************************************
Re: violinist
Sun, October 25, 2009 8:17:38 PM
From: voltaire voltaire
View Contact To: Susan Lee
Number 1) I don't know you. If I met you at a show, I don't remember it because I meet LOTS of people.
Number 2) I'm married and have no interest in receiving emails like the one you sent me a few days ago which was very sexually suggestive.
Number 3) I am DEFINITELY not interested in receiving any email attachments from you or anyone else, especially when they are 17 MEGS!!!!
Number 4) I have no idea what you're talking about. I did not see what happened between you and a musician that I hired so I can't speak for either of you.
Lastly, I am not interested in demeaning you or anyone else and I am certainly not interested in hearing your paranoid ideas about it.
I like to believe that I'm pleasant to the people who buy tickets to come to my shows and I appreciate that they are interested in what I do. I do not get to know them personally for the most part. You have made it your point to send me very personal emails. I am not interested in having a personal relationship with you.
I'm sorry for your troubles, and I wish you all of the best. But leave me out of it.
PLEASE STOP EMAILING ME OR COMING TO MY SHOWS.
Voltaire
**************************************
Re: violinist
Thu, October 29, 2009 8:28:15 PM
From: Susan Lee
Add to Contacts To: voltaire voltaire
look man, i'm sorry i really have been hurt very badly and it means a lot to me to talk to you about it. i get touchy when men try to put thier hands on me. you inspired me, and so, i thought it would help. i still think you're awesome and you break my heart. i have a picture dedicated to you at the art show called the vampire prince, i can't express it any other way.
****************************************
forgive me
Fri, October 30, 2009 12:52:29 PM
From: Susan Lee
Add to Contacts To: voltairenyc@yahoo.com
i wanted to say that i loved you. your eyes, you nose, you jewish hat, and your beautiful voice. i'm sorry that it is nothing that i can share with you, but i will always care for that warm arm. i've listened to your story, and i wish that i could be there for you to help you feel better. i have had similar predicaments. someone told me that when in love people do stupid things. please don't hate me for it.
sorry, susan
****************************************
(I PERFORMED AT THE ELYSIUM ON NOVEMBER 5TH. IT WAS A SHOW I WAS BOOKED TO DO DIRECTLY BY THE CLUB THAT DID NOT INVOLVE HER. I EXPLAINED TO THEM THAT I HAD A WORRISOME SITUATION WITH A MISGUIDED FAN OR STALKER AND ASKED SHE NOT BE PRESENT. I WAS CONCERNED FOR MY SAFETY AND THE SAFETY OF MY WIFE. I WAS TOLD THAT SUSAN LEE CAME TO THE CLUB AND WAS TURNED AWAY. SHE HAD AN ADVANCED TICKET AND WAS GIVEN A REFUND. SHE LATER EMAILED TONY OPORTO, THE BOOKING AGENT AT THE CLUB AND CC'D ME.)
*****************************************
Re: october 8th at elysium
Tue, November 10, 2009 3:30:27 PM
From: Susan Lee
Add to Contacts To: Tony D'Oporto Cc: voltairenyc@yahoo.com
so why did i get kicked out the day of voltaire's show? i'm sorry, but i was busy trying to stand up for women's rights. i had to press charges in my defense on some jerk, missed school, and personal promotions, and would like an ounce of respect for it.
susan
******************************************
cupid's arrow
Tue, November 17, 2009 6:43:35 PM
From: Susan Lee
Add to Contacts To: voltairenyc@yahoo.com
you cause me the most damning pain and sorrow. i wish i had never married that man that looked just like you for my love of you. i wish you were a real hero.
*******************************************
know me
Sun, November 22, 2009 2:32:24 PM
From: Susan Lee
Add to Contacts To: voltairenyc@yahoo.com
your smile is like a vampire's relief, after a dark longing for a taste that cannot be breached. your wings are like that of a raven, but more than ten times the size. if i could come close with the beast, and relieve that pain from the wolves on his arm, then i could do anything. someone once told me that they had fallen to find true love, because their heart had been thrown away, and smashed into several peices. if i could, i would go out and find each and every one of those shards, and put them together. but each time i find those shards, they turn into rosepetals, and fly away in the wind.
your friend,
susan
*********************************************
homeless
Sun, November 29, 2009 7:31:19 PM
From: Susan Lee
]Add to Contacts To: voltaire voltaire
hey, i know i don't have a home, but i have enough to promote. can i become a groupie?
***********************************************
i'm very sorry
Fri, December 11, 2009 5:34:00 PM
From: Susan Lee
Add to Contacts To: voltairenyc@yahoo.com
i don't know you personally, and i don't know your band members enough to assume their intentions. i am very sorry that i made assumptions. you say that things worth having take some time, and i wanted to show that i was a faithful woman to you because you were a good thing to me. it hurts that you were with someone else, and showed it like i wasn't there. i wish i could talk to you and show you good things, but you've been several miles away, and i can't express what goes one down here because you're so far away.
*************************************************
don't expect anything
Wed, December 16, 2009 1:52:57 PM
From: Susan Lee
Add to Contacts To: voltairenyc@yahoo.com
don't expect to come to any of my events, help on making money, jobs, or manicures. you're a lame excuse for an artist and know nothing of darkness. you better consider yourself lucky that you have parents, and everything else! and for the invocation of the Christ within myself i will have you ass burned in hell! my children and my people will come with me to the land of the ever living and you will be watched as you fry. you are a lying cheater, pervert, and fucking car thieving criminal, and you will be expedited. oh, and remember when i was your girl friend at seventeen and you found me drunk outside of your favorite club sitting next to that ugly fucker daemon, well, i got the certified copy of our marriage license and you are fucking divorced! just because you didn't tell me that you were in a band doesn't me that you'll get away with it! our children are safer without you! and that ugly bitch that cheated on you and had that beautiful sad, unkempt child would probably would probably be better without you too.
****************************************** *******************************************
And there you have it. It's stuff like this that makes a person really want to stop reading and respond to emails, but what can you do?
So now you know. If something happens to me the next time I'm in Austin, you'll know who it was.
Voltaire
Oh my. That's ungodly creepy.
ReplyDeleteo my word..
ReplyDeleteSorry for the formatting issues when I first posted this. It was HELL to read. I think I've got it all sorted out now.
ReplyDeleteV
Ho-ly hell. And here I thought my stalker ex boyfriend was crazy! This by far takes the cake. I'm so sorry you have to put up with that, damn.
ReplyDeleteWow, dude.
ReplyDeleteJust.
Wow.
It really is amazing how someone can create such a vivid alteration of reality inside their own mind, and believe that everyone else sees it too. This woman is very troubled, and I hope she someday gets the help she needs.
ReplyDeleteI commend you on your civility when still telling her that her advances were unwelcome. I also commend that you read and respond to all the correspondence we fans send you. We are all a little crazy in some way, and you get to see the gamut. Thank you.
Justin
I'm sorry you have to deal with this kind of bullshit, is there no law that can help? restraining orders aside.... That bitch needs a psych ward. I think that for every fan that wants to talk to someone they admire it's amazing for them when that person gives them the time of day and then for some and depending on the person it's like a drug...hello i've been to 15 chem concerts...my heart beats a little faster when gerard says hi to me from stage or frank gives me a hug after a show. (or when voltaire slaps my ass? um *clears throat*) But honestly where does the line draw for a fan? I just don't get some people. If someone's touched your life in some way...tell them and move the fuck on don't act like because they said hi to you they are going to remember you or invite you into their lives in anyway. Shit I've met Frank maybe 8 times...and every other time he MIGHT have remembered my name, big deal if he doesn't, it's his talents I admire. Celebrity is illusion and one best kept by being friendly and seemingly inviting while also a cloak of personal protection. But the thing that really sucks for a non-psycho, know the boundaries fan...is that these fans taint a public figures views on their public. How can you, or any other public figure, not read anything a fan says to you without a jaded eye?
ReplyDeleteA lot of the bands I listen to always start off small and get larger...at first they are real eager to mingle with their fans, but over time as their popularity grows their eagerness to be around their fans dwindles. People say the fame went to their head. I don't fully believe that. Sure there are some cocky s.o.b's out there, but then there are others who, like yourself, have had to put up with this shit and worse. Fans that insist on more than being a fan, girls that grab their dicks, fans that rip clothing or hair to have a "piece" of them and deem themselves as having love (I watched a girl grab Gerard by the hair screaming she loved him as worm,his bodyguard, was prying her hand out of his hair. Then fans say "he's different" well no shit and who made him that way?)
Sucks to think you may detach more from us, the fans, but you have a family and a life of your own to think of and that's more important. I might not be from austin, tx but I would dare say that nobody would be able to harm you in the presence of your fans...we don't want anyone offing you before we get more music, books and another friggen deady comic(soon please? lol). But in all seriousness you should look into ways of protecting yourself, especially considering (if i read right) she mentioned your SON!! I believe you are well within your rights to do anything you can to make you and your family feel safe. If by chance you taking those actions should cause her to end her life, well I'm sorry man but that's not on your shoulders. Family comes first before all others.
Take Care
Becks.
Definitely keep those emails as a record because this woman is certainly demented. Have you considered a restraining order?
ReplyDeleteOh dear, that is frightening...
ReplyDeleteI appreciate you responding to my emails and remember who I am! =)
-Krystal Fernandez
p.s. there is always going to be creepers out there even I have had my share of them.
Holy crap. Well you handled yourself quite well, so I commend you on that..but damn..that really sucks to have some crazy lady harassing you like that. :/ I hope she doesn't do something extreme..
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this with us. It's certainly thought-provoking and eye-opening to see the kinds of things you have to deal with. I was a bit scared while reading the threads, so I can only imagine how you must feel for you and your wife and son.
ReplyDeleteAnd a big thank you for sharing what you do of yourself at your shows. You make yourself very available to approach, and I can't say that's the case for all musicians/artists. This gives many of us a chance to let you know we appreciate what we do...and thankfully this segment of the population is much greater in numbers than the true crazies.
I would love to see some more posts along these lines -- some behind-the-scenes, "fame is not always all it's cracked up to be" type posts. Not complaining/venting posts, per se, but just things that you have to deal with in your line of work that most people don't even have to think about. I think it's very eye-opening to learn that kind of stuff, and it gives me an even bigger appreciation for the work that is done despite challenging circumstances.
All the best,
Deanna
Oh. My. It is especially sad to me that you, so kind to his fans above and beyond the kind of care almost anyone else I can think of gives to fans, are going through this kind of thing. Thank you so much for continuing to be the wonderful man you are in the face of this.
ReplyDeleteJenx
Couldn't you send her e-mails to the authorities and have her at the least baker acted?
ReplyDeleteWow. You could always lead her on and trick her into sending a picture, and then we could all keep a look out for her. haha! :)
ReplyDeleteThat was some demented stuff.
I've enjoyed meeting you 4-5 times and talking to you for 10 minutes at a time at least once. But I tried not to be creepy about it, and don't expect you to remember me. Maybe my wife's boobs, but that's it.
At least some of us can have realistic expectations! But wow. BAT. SHIT. CRAY. ZEE.
Wow. That is some weapons-grade bananas.
ReplyDeleteI've actually never commented on your posts before--I tend not to send fanmail and so on to anyone in the fear of coming across as fangirly--but being from Texas, this seems like a good time to chime in with some fan support. I think it's awesome you take the time to keep a personal dialogue going with your fans. I certainly hope one day your success is that you have too much to go through, but it's cool that you take those two hours or more of your time out to do so.
It reads that you're handling it sensibly, so I hope this resolves itself post-haste-y. Hopefully this won't be a worry next time you hit Austin! We (lucid) Texan fans have always got your back.
Wow. I don't normally comment here, but I wanted to send along my sympathies. Holy donkeys. I hope you can keep her away from your shows. Good luck.
ReplyDeleteCan't you just block her e-mail address? I would have just started deleting the emails without reading them if I couldn't block her. She's obviously insane. Sorry this is happening to you. Stalkers suck.
ReplyDeleteWow V, I am so sorry to hear that you're having to deal with this. Thanks for being so candid and sharing. I think it's something that is very valuable for fans to read; they need to understand when they are crossing the line.
ReplyDeleteNubby
http://www.nubbytwiglet.com
Gosh goth, that's freaking scary!
ReplyDeleteI knew that kind of stuff happened but... gosh!
I hope you'll be safe and fine!
I think I've mailed you once, but I can't remember. I was hoping you'd come to Brazil someday hahaaha
Good luck with this woman. I hope she'll find professional help....
Booo Stalkers!
ReplyDeleteHoooray Beer!
Holy Bananas, Bat-Man! Better keep some stalker-repellant-bat spray handy!
All joking aside, I hope she gets some medical help soon. Be well and hope to see you at D*C 2011!
Wow. Thanks for taking the time to still communicate with your fans. Those of us who know that we support what you do, think your public persona is awesome, and know that we aren't real-life friends, even if you are on our facebook "friends" list, really appreciate the time and energy you put into us.
ReplyDeleteWow, this was rather eye-opening. Being someone's fan you don't really stop to think about stuff like this. If I were to write one of my heroes a letter, (including you :) )I would want to come across as respectful as possible. Some people are only too willing to share personal matters with people they don't even know but think they know. And it becomes worse when they can't differentiate between reality and fantasy. I know that you have way too may fans to keep track of them all. I've met you before at a Denver show and I would not be the least bit surprised if you remembered me. But I don't care. You're still awesome as hell!
ReplyDeleteI thought you handled the situation well and I think not letting Sarah into your show was a very good decision. Who knows what could've happened if she got in!
I hope this situation doesn't turn you off completely from answering fan mail. There are still plenty of people out there who have your back and think you're wonderful.
I can't wait to see another show, I hope you come back to the west coast soon! Take care! :D
Laura
Holy crap, V...
ReplyDeleteI guess we all realize that stalkers are out there doing crazy things, but I doubt many of us have actually seen the things they do in this sort of way. Thank you for sharing and I am SO sorry that you have to deal with this sort of stuff. They call is the price of fame, but there should still be something more that you can do about it.
I hope things clear up soon in regards to this and you can put hopefully your last creepy stalker experience behind you.
oh my goodness....you know...this possibly could make a fairly good premis for a...um..movie..er tv show...how about a ahhh commercial? ok... definently a PSA...
ReplyDeletepobresito! you poor thing! >.> mind, mine wasn't so crazy, but i had a stalker once, a younger girl in my church, and it really is some crazy shit to deal with. she's gone now, but i still think about her -shudders-. The thing is, when you do something like an art, everything does require a bit of your soul to go into it, and some people take that a bit too seriously. They think that because they know your work, they know YOU, and then it gets out of hand. I really do hope you get this sorted out, and I feel sorry for anyone who has to deal with her, but I guess it's one of those things, y'know? I admire your character in how you dealt with her! A gentleman through and through! This is why we luv ya, V. ;)
ReplyDelete~No stalking! Just simple admiration.
Lady K
I'm so glad you continue to read fanmail and respond to your fans who aren't psychotic. I can only hope that this woman and people like her don't deter you from staying in touch with your fanbase.
ReplyDeleteWelcome to the wonderful world of stalkers. Isn't it fun? (sarcasm) Feel free to pull up a seat next to the rest of us.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you had her barred from the club. I mean, WTF lady? Get a grip, get on your meds, and get out of this man's life.
=/ nada de que te pasen cosas cuando estes en austin!
ReplyDeletethat girl needs professional help :C
OK...some advice from a victim's advocate and a criminal justice major:
ReplyDelete1. File a restraining order. Immediately. This woman is unbalanced and could be pretty damned dangerous. Don't take that gamble.
2. When in Austin, look into the possibility of hiring armed security. No joke.
3. Hire a private investigator to check her out. See if she has a pattern of this type of behavior, have her criminal history checked, and, for your own peace of mind, see if she travels a lot. :/
4. You were spot on to call the club and tip them off. That is definitely a good idea when you're in Austin and the surrounding areas.
Be well and stay safe-
J
Oh my... I hope that is the last you have to deal with her or anyone like her. Good luck on your Austin shows.
ReplyDeleteHire some security anytime you go anywhere near Austin. That's so scary...I really agree with Jenn's comment about gettina restraining order and private investigator. It takes some money, but it'd be well worth your safety.
ReplyDeleteAlso, stalkers really, really suck..but please don't let that experience jade your opinion on the rest of the fanbase. It seems like a good idea to post the e-mails on there, to make it public and hopefully embarrass her. It could be a two pronged effect though x.x
That sound quite scary, hope you and your family are all ok.
ReplyDeleteI wish I could say I'd never had an issue like that. Personally, I'm grateful mine stopped with the court order, and I'm nowhere near as well known as you.
ReplyDeleteHope nothing further comes of this for you. I know my issues were heart breaking and entirely more trouble than I cared to deal with.
Wow. This woman is, what is the best way to say this? Several fries short of a Happy Meal! Please, dude, if you do nothing else about this, get a restraining order on her! I do not want to see you or your family in the obituaries (or heavens forbid anyone else) because of this crazy woman.
ReplyDeleteCheers
I am sad to know you are going through something like this. I also think you should get a restraining order on her.
ReplyDeleteTake care, stay safe.
wow, that's very... sad. I hope the poor woman gets some help soon, it sounds like she is about to completely break down. You can see her progress further and further into madness in each email... I hope she find herself some help or someone helps her before it is too late... it doesn't sound like this will end in any positive way for her. *sad*
ReplyDeleteI would probably stop playing in Austin. :P
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteBe careful V-
ReplyDeletePsychopaths can see this public posting as validation "of your love" (and false reality) OR they can see it as humiliation of their innermost weirdness and seek public retaliation. Humiliated psychos are a whole other level. Please follow through with legal restraining order as soon as possible. You cannot reason with unreasonable people.
No manicures? Ever? NOOOOOO!!!!
ReplyDeleteHeh. Sorry you have to deal with that. You can always block her email address, but then again, they are kind of amusing, like they've been put through some kind of translator.
I think the closest I ever got to stalking you was getting dragged backstage by the drummer of an opening band not long after you said I ought not to go backstage.
I may be madly in love with you, but I'm not THAT crazy for you.
~fawndolyn
I have to say, reading the description of what's happening is just nothing compared to what she's actually writing you. That's terrifying! I would 2nd the restraining order advice, TBH. You can never be too careful. :/
ReplyDelete"please forward e-mail to friends, family, juggalos, jugglettes, and other supporters."
That line seriously gives me an entirely new mental picture of all out face-painted faygo-guzzling crazy.
This is why, when I saw your show at The Church (Dallas) this year, I hung back. I didn't rush, or demand your time, because the price of a ticket entitles me to nothing more than the show (and even then, only if I behave myself).
ReplyDeleteYou had about a thousand people all demanding a piece of you, and I don't imagine that that is too terribly comfortable at the best of times. Yes, that's part and parcel to your vocation, but I think fans could stand to appreciate performers as -people- rather than a commodity.
I've never been one to get "all up on" someone who's famous, slightly famous, or whom I happen to admire for some reason. I don't understand the concept of it. Cock-barnacle-fanatics will never, ever, be fashionable.
Sadly, it sounds like this girl's either very much deluded, very much drugged out, or otherwise very much in need of a straitening out.
Moment of Levity: At least, at the end of the day, you can look at yourself in the mirror and say "At least I'm not Edward Cullen." *shrug*
I'm a social worker who works with mentally ill adults, and I second Rebecca. Stalking behavior can be encouraged by any type of response from the one being stalked, positive, negative, whatever. Any type of attention (especially a public post that many others can read) could cause her to continue writing you, if only to get more attention. I actually feel bad for her. She's clearly suffering from some type of psychotic disorder and needs help that she may or may not be getting.
ReplyDeletePrint out the emails, file them, get documentation of all the times the woman has tried to contact you, and take out restraining orders against her for your family, close friends, and yourself. This woman could use any means to get your attention or harm you, and I am sure that she will if she has the money to do so. Heck sometimes they can get money to do so easily enough.
ReplyDeleteI hope that you are gonna be okay.
wow... that's unsettling, to say the least! D:
ReplyDeletei'm so sorry you're having to deal with this-especially with the added stress of the holidays. great timing, right?
take care of yourself & the family and enjoy your holiday :) if this girl shows up at any of your shows, she'll have to deal with my 5-foot fury!
-mo
Holy shit V...I'm sorry you had to put up with that for four months...and maybe counting? :/ there's something wrong with that girl, I hope she gets help..
ReplyDeleteBut for you, I worry for you and your family. I agree with getting a restraining order. What she is doing isn't right..please act on it immediately. This post...it can either help the situation or make it 10 times worse....
Yeah...
ReplyDeleteThat is some fucked up shit. ^^
I understand your fear for your loved ones and yourself and support the previous mention of a restraining order. (Seeing how I'm sure this post will only exacerbate the situation...)
Please note that I am quite fond of you and would prefer you not go out in the way of Lennon until you and your lovely lady have had at *least* a decade of marital bliss.
Stay well, both of you. ^^
- Nicci
That is utterly terrifying.
ReplyDeleteI agree with getting the restraining order. I'm not a psychologist or anything, but, believe me, you don't have to be to see that this chick is crazy.
You have a lot of people on your side who would hate to see you or any of your loved ones hurt because this person is delusional.
Please be careful and if you don't hear from her, don't assume she's given up.
Eeek. That IS scary. I'm sorry that you had to deal with that, but at least she doesn't live in New York. =O
ReplyDeleteI hope this doesn't change the way you treat your fans too much. Being able to talk to you is one of the coolest things about being a fan of yours. It would be a shame if this one nutter ruined it, but I honestly don't think I could blame you...
Wow, that must be a tough thing to cope with! I would personally be petrified.
ReplyDeleteHow horrible that you're dealing with this. I can't imagine how you and your wife and your son must feel about this.
ReplyDeleteI very much agree with the many others encouraging legal action.
You mentioned the woman who stalked David Letterman; she was something of a local celebrity in the area I'm from, and after she was done stalking Letterman, Margaret moved on to stalk an astronaut. My point is, like someone mentioned before, this woman may have done this before, and, even if she leaves you alone, she may do it to someone else. Taking action may help establish a pattern that would get her off the streets where she could be a danger to people, including you and your family, and hopefully into a treatment facility where she can get help.
Another thing: If you haven't done so already, I would suggest checking to be sure she's not in your Facebook and MySpace friends. A report to her ISP may get the e-mails stopped, as well, but the authorities can help with that.
People who do things like this are not in their right minds and are capable of so much destruction. I don't know how Margaret kept getting money to get to Letterman's Connecticut home, or how she found out exactly where he lived, but she did. Please, please, please -- don't take the risk. It's not overreacting to involve the police.
And at least please consider deleting her name from this blog post. As others have said, it might make things worse to have her publicly humiliated. I commend you for the civility of your e-mail response to her.
V, Thanks for taking the time that you do to talk with your fans. This is very scary. For the safety of you and your lovely family I suggest as well that you contact the police, make a report. I also commend you for your responses to her. I am sure that it was a very scary and creepy experience.
ReplyDeleteTake Care and Stay Safe!!
Best Wishes,
Jean
I am bit curious to see how she reacts to this. If I were you I might try to inform the authorities and get her in a loony bin or at least some help because she definitely sounds like she has some kind of disorder.
ReplyDeleteThat's so disturbing. I was always grateful when you wrote back to me... and now I guess I should count myself lucky that shit like this doesn't stop you from being so sweet to your fans. Damn. Restraining order... that's the way to go with that one. Be careful when you go Texas, man.
ReplyDeleteDid she seriously write a book and put Inuyasha on the cover?!
ReplyDeletewow...
I've had my share of stalkers, but that's a special breed of crazy, my condolences.
Honestly though, her writing is SO crazy it's almost impressive. I bet if she saved all her emails and published that, THAT would be a good book.
-P
I hope she doesn't do anything to you...
ReplyDeleteHer e-mails are really scary... she needs professional help, 'cause if the things she told you are true, and 'cause of the things she is making up and beliving they're real, she is not mentally healthy.
oh, I wrote you an e-mail once, and it didn't get to you xD anyway my e-mail was really stupid, so I was happy for that... after that decided that it wasn't a good idea writting you... I was a little excited and couldn't write something that didn't make me look a really crazy fangirl (not as much as Susan, though)
Esta entrada si que estuvo extrema, realmente debe ser aterrorizante que alguien quiera ser parte de tu vida tan desesperadamente que termine haciendote parte de su mente enferma; como ya han dicho cuando asistas a Austin intenta contratar seguridad o advierte en el lugar donde te presentaras de esta situación (es por tu bien y el de tu esposa).
ReplyDeleteEn serio no imagino que extressante debe ser una cituación así.
Eres un artista que tiene una gran actitud hacia sus fans, ojala esta persona no te haga cambiar de forma de actuar.
Saludos y apoyo desde México.
wow.
ReplyDeleteMy roomate is a DJ and has similar issues.
I thought he was the only one. Just... wow.
~Draya A & K Answering Service
holy FUCK that is sad, and creepy. i hope this woman finds help, because it's obvious that she needs it.
ReplyDeleteit's one thing to joke about being such a huge fan that you bleed over into Stalker-dom, it's entirely another issue when you've lost touch with reality. holy shit. i hope any future shows in Austin don't give you any trouble.
has this ever been an issue before? i wouldn't even know how to begin to handle something like that! damn. and here's me feeling like a creeper if i comment or email once in awhile.
good luck with that!
I'm sorry to hear that this situation happened to you. I work at a radio station and you would be astounded by the amount of emails, mail, etc. we receive there from people who have really gone off their rockers. I suppose that people in the public eye, or voices/personalities that seem easily available, become these assumed BFFs in times of great loneliness.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, there is little we can do; even when one schizophrenic man was making threats against a man he knew and sending the emails to us, the police said that they could not do anything about it. It's a really bizarre position to be in, and I hope that this woman moves on somehow and that you will not need to deal with this for much longer.
Wow... catching up on Blogger and seriously, reading this is quite creepy. Spud and I thought we were a little out there but hell... that's almost reassuring.
ReplyDeleteI hope that the people in Austin will ensure your safety when time comes for you to perform there again.
Oh my heavens!
ReplyDeleteWell, I just had this long thing posted and then there was some sort of blogger error, so it wouldn't post, but long story short, I know what it is like to deal with a psycho/stalker. I think that people use the word "stalker" way to casually these days and wonder if some of those people know what it is like to have to watch over you shoulder all the time, change your number, MOVE, have unpublished service, and such.. I do, and I am so sorry that you are having to deal with this sad individual. I hope that she gets the help that she needs, and that you are able to remain friendly with your fanbase.
Best of luck,
~J
Jesus Christ.
ReplyDeleteI love how the more she wrote you, the CRAZIER she became. All it takes is ONE psychotic bitch to ruin it for those of us who DON'T take your kindness/openness with your fans for granted.
I hope it all ends well.
Because if it doesn't, we all know who she is now. . . and she is in for QUITE the visit from a LOT of livid Goths. (ha!)
...I am so confused.
ReplyDeleteThe woman has a psychological problem. She needs treatment to say the least. It is a sad and scary thing to see.
ReplyDeleteI hope you keep safe and maybe follow through with some of the suggestions here to keep this troubled woman away. (security and continued use of club management to prevent her entry to shows)
Despite this development I hope you have a happy start to the new year!
OMG! That is so insane, not to mention scary, especially since you have a family. Hell, all of us ladies have a crush on you, you handsome devil *wink*, but that's all fun. We have real lives, like you do. You just happen to be more "famous" than the rest of us. But all stars/musicians/etc are just people, and I think people forget where to draw the line. If I saw you having dinner at the same spot as me, I'd be horrified at the thought of interrupting you for an autograph! I'd just tell everyone how cool it was to see you. That woman needs a good shrink and a boatload of drugs. I'm so sorry that it had to happen to as cool a guy as you. I sincerely hope that chapter is over.
ReplyDeleteWow... I know that's been said but that's all that comes to mind, just wow, oh and get a restraining order quickly!
ReplyDeleteHaha. I'm sure that is just one of a million reasons that celebs don't answer e-mail. Fuckin, III rarely answer e-mail and I'm a nobody. Actually...maybe that's why lol. I have nothing to look forward to but advertisements from things I inadvertently joined.
ReplyDeleteWell I sure hope this Susan Lee lady doesn't shed her skin and eat your soul...or your head.
But she liked your Jewish hat! Haha. I'm sorry about this lady. I actually work in a Mental Institution and some people who are here have stalked Britney Spears and presidents. I had a stalker myself once who thought I was leading him on and sent me creepy emails too about witches sitting on my chest at night. I even had to leave my house once because he wanted to come over and I said no, but was afraid of him showing up. Sucks!
ReplyDeleteIt's a sad thing that the acts of the sparse few alienate the whole.
ReplyDeleteCierto, muy cierto.
ReplyDeleteVery creepy men, but,
is
JUST
true!
Saludos
"Can I become a groupie?" xD
ReplyDeleteGod, that is freaky. File a restraining order--and be damned careful. This makes my incident with an over-familiar drunk appear minor. Good luck--and lots of love x
ReplyDeleteIt is abusive to say the least. Here is my advice: File a police report. There are laws on the books concerning cyber stalking. Judges can ban stalkers from using a computer. Get a picture of her and distribute to the security staff before all of your shows. You can hope that she stops obsessing over you and moves on, but in the meantime, report it to the authorities in New York and Texas.
ReplyDeletePoor confused soul.... since the beginning of her emails she was talking with no sense... but at the end, she was really out of her mind.... what she wanted was Voltaire's attention... she got it.... no doubt about that...
ReplyDeleteIs so nice of you that you take the time to read your fan emails. It says so much about you. Unfortunately things like this will continue to happen... so just delete them, and keep reading the sane ones.... jejeje
She was apparently just arrested in Austin, TX:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.bustedmugshots.com/texas/austin/susan-lee/39625312
well...that's a pretty creepy situation there Mr. Voltaire. Unfortunately, it says her booking date is 12/8/11, and it seems like it's a violation of probation. If she was found guilty and incarcerated, she could already be out by now.
ReplyDeleteIf you haven't yet, I would highly suggest calling the Austin police department and have them file all of this for you just in case. She's a loony, and loonies don't stop until they find someone else to go loony on.
If you want to learn more about voltaire check out this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sq6mJHzxYx8
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteSweet adorable crap! On the one hand, I'm really sorry this happened to you, it must have been horrible - I'd avoid Austin at all cost after this.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand, it's equal parts completely hilarious and tragic at the same time. It amazes me that people like this really exist... and I have to wonder if it's drug related. Either the drugs she's taking, or a prescription she stopped refilling.
Genuinely hope she finds the help she needs and can go forward in life as a sane person... and that there are no more of these seeking you out, that's enough for a lifetime right there. :)
Please take care and don't change a thing, you are a true inspiration and a very bright spark... The world needs more of this, not less. :)
Totally looked like this wannabe "voltaire" was sleeping around to me with all the offering hands on stage knowing it was my 21st birthday. who the hell is gonna jump some dirtbags bones with wood romp poison ivy anyway? my bad for thinking you were anything remotely attractive like i was trying to bless you with some fun and poetry! I know who you are like all you care about is procreating, ditching the wives (called spousal abandonment but I promised you out of my love that I would never make you pay for child support so that you could have a prosperous life) after you turn them away from personal safety. Willard! your are such a jerk! Infidel is what you are and I am not your stalker. Your black brother Nathaniel molek Schanzel is the one who got the flowers cards and candy. I completely understand that there are a lot of whoopty-doo "evil" wanabe's running around like you being all hateful and kniving to people that love and adore you. I suppose it just gets you wet in as many places as you can. By the way, if you got something to say about me than at least I'm interesting to talk about. I'm committed to lifelong celibacy regardless and don't even fathom after divorce sex. That's why I didn't put your name on our daughters birth certificate so that you couldn't kill us. you probably have disease and need to go brush your smelly rotten plaque infested teeth.
ReplyDelete