PONTIAC, Mich. – Haunted attraction pioneer Edward Terebus, co-founder of Erebus, has passed away.
Terebus was a beloved figure known for his larger-than-life personality and profound impact on the haunted attraction industry.
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He was an innovator, showman, storyteller, visionary, and a friend to many while also being a devoted family man and a prolific businessman.
Nearly 26 years ago, Ed and his brother Jim transformed a four-story abandoned building in Pontiac into Erebus Haunted Attraction, which has become one of the most renowned haunted attractions in the world.
For nearly a decade, Erebus held the Guinness World Record for the longest walk-through haunted attraction.
For over 20 years, it has consistently ranked among the top 13 haunted attractions globally.
Ed and Jim revolutionized the haunted attraction experience. They dedicated themselves year-round to creating and reinventing Erebus, providing ultimate spine-tingling expertise for over a million guests.
Many visitors have had memorable experiences, some even losing shoes, teeth, car keys, and more as they navigated all four floors of the attraction.
Ed and Jim meticulously planned every detail, introducing new experiences and innovations that elevated the bar with elaborate set designs, innovative special effects, animatronics, and a scare school for their actors.
Their deep understanding of the psychology of fear contributed to Erebus’s reputation as one of the finest haunted attractions in the industry.
For many in the haunt industry, Ed and Jim created a haunt that could even scare the haunters.
Professionals from around the world traveled to Pontiac to experience Erebus and consult with the brothers.
The building housing Erebus has been documented by paranormal investigators and featured in scientific studies related to fear, as well as in books and docuseries, due to the unexplained paranormal experiences reported throughout the building.
From the beginning, Ed prioritized giving back to the community. He founded the annual seasonal magazine Fear Finder to promote Erebus and other haunted attractions, helping to establish Southeast Michigan as the haunted attraction capital of the world.
Ed and Jim played a crucial role in elevating the haunt industry through America Haunts, of which Erebus is a founding member.
Erebus is more than just a business; it represents a family affair. The Terebus family extended their vision to include employees and the next generation of family members working in the industry.
In addition to Erebus, Ed, and Jim, along with Jim’s sons and the extended Erebus family, developed Erebus Escape, a multi-floor escape room complex.
Ed also collaborated with his close friend Steve Shipp to open the Mythos Museum of Oddities and Curiosities, showcasing Steve’s eclectic discoveries and collections, as well as many items Ed amassed throughout his life.
As the haunt season begins, residents of Southeast Michigan will see the night sky illuminated with spotlights, a reminder that all paths lead to Erebus.
In honoring Ed and the legacy he built with Jim and the Terebus family, the night skies will shine brightly, guiding all to Erebus for its 26th season.
