The New Yorker Radio Hour From In the Dark: “Blood Relatives”
Nov 4, 2025
Heidi Blake, an investigative journalist, delves into the infamous Whitehouse Farm murders that haunted Britain in the 1980s. She uncovers shocking details about the Bamber family's history, including June's mental health struggles and Sheila's tragic descent. As Blake interviews key figures, she reveals inconsistencies in the evidence and questions the narrative that painted Sheila as the killer. The story takes a dramatic twist as suspicion turns toward Jeremy Bamber, leading to his conviction. Blake's revelations challenge the very integrity of the U.K.'s legal system.
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Adopted Siblings Raised In Grand Manor
- Heidi Blake narrated Neville and June Bamber adopting Sheila and Jeremy and presenting a genteel family life at Whitehouse Farm.
- Photos showed the children on the lawn with the family Labrador, projecting an image of normalcy.
Mental Illness Shaped Family Dynamics
- Both parents struggled with mental-health issues and religious fixation that strained family bonds.
- Sheila developed paranoid schizophrenia and repeatedly resisted treatment, complicating interpretations of her behavior.
Sheila’s Final Breakdown And Return Home
- In 1985, Sheila suffered a severe breakdown and Neville had her readmitted to hospital before she returned home with the twins.
- Barbara described Sheila as vacant and uttering fearful, dark statements at that visit.