‘Knock Knock Ghost’ show explores the spirit life at Ruthven

By Sheila Phibbs

The Haldimand Press

CAYUGA—While Ruthven Park National Historic Site has been closed for much of this year, 2020 did offer the opportunity to be featured on an episode of the Canadian television show Knock Knock Ghost. Now in its third season, the Canadian Screen Award nominated reality program is hosted by comedian Richard Ryder, who is joined by actor Brie Doyle and psychic medium Kevin Whitaker, and highlights historical locations that are reportedly haunted.

Planning for the episode began last spring when Ruthven was contacted by Lauren Whitelaw, Acquisitions Head of Programming for OUTtv, the network that airs Knock Knock Ghost. Whitelaw lives in Caledonia with her husband, Kyle, who directed the Ruthven episode. The couple was already familiar with Ruthven as their son has attended summer camp programs there. Kyle explains that they have wanted to feature Ruthven Park since the beginning of the show and says, “Things finally fell into place for season three. We couldn’t not shoot it when it became possible.”