Episodes
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In this episode, we examine two poignant cases related to HIV/AIDS where initial murder charges were reduced to manslaughter. One notable case is that of nine-year-old Emma Poizer, whose mother, Angela, pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility. Angela’s plea was influenced by her belief that she was living with AIDS, leading her to act out of a misguided desire to protect her daughter from what she perceived to be her own inevitable fate.
The second case involves Ashley Gillard, who, after disclosing his HIV status to a casual lover, faced a horrific betrayal. This individual callously chose not to assist Ashley when he required urgent first aid, instead opting to watch him deteriorate. Tragically, Thomas White cruelly attempted to erase Ashley altogether, as he sought to burn his body in a house fire. The indifference demonstrated highlights the profound stigma that still surrounds HIV, revealing how prejudice can lead to unspeakable acts of violence and disregard for human life.
XTRA Tea Blog - MURDER FILES: Cases of Manslaughter
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Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -
British Newspaper Archives / NewspapersLISTENER DISCRECTION IS FIRMLY ADVISED
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CASE FILE 1b: Michele Lupo is arrested in an undercover police sting and charged for four murders and three attempted murders. He tells detectives he felt “abused” by friends and society as reason for random murder.
However, Lupo tests positive for AIDS while in custody and detectives believe AIDS is motive for murder. As the investigation deepens, so do the headlines and wild police theories.
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - MURDER FILES: Michele Lupo
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Part 1: The Victims
Podcast Episode - LISTEN HERE [Spotify]
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Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -
British Newspaper Archives / NewspapersLISTENER DISCRECTION IS FIRMLY ADVISED
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Missing episodes?
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CASE FILE 1a: In 1986, a series of tragic events unfolded in London, resulting in the murder of four men and an attempted murder of three others. The pivotal moment came when one of the survivors courageously identified Michele del Marco Lupo as the assailant in a local gay pub, leading to his arrest and a sentence of four life terms.
Despite the extensive media coverage that followed, the details surrounding the victims and the tragic circumstances of their deaths remained largely underexplored. In recent years, the narrative has been further complicated by various entertainers—drag queens, comedians, and podcasters—who have sensationalised and glamorised Lupo's crimes, often perpetuating erroneous claims about the events. This lack of diligent research not only distorts the historical reality but also overshadows the lives of the victims and the true horror of these senseless crimes.
Over two episodes we first take a look at the victims before taking a look at the events and profile of murderer, Michele Lupo.
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - MURDER FILES: Jim, Tony, Damien & The Man with the Tartan Scarf
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British Newspaper Archives / NewspapersLISTENER DISCRECTION IS FIRMLY ADVISED
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As the AIDS pandemic began to unfold in San Francisco, a wave of courageous gay men emerged, bravely voicing their experiences of stigma and isolation. These activists played a crucial role in raising awareness and challenging the pervasive fear and ignorance surrounding the disease.
Their efforts spurred the rise of numerous organisations and charities, mobilising to provide care, support, and compassion to those affected. In an environment rife with discrimination, these individuals and groups became a beacon of hope, advocating for change and solidarity within a community that was suffering deeply yet remained resilient in its quest for justice and understanding. We look at the stories of Bobby Reynolds, Mark Wood, Phil Shippy and Joe Swartz.
This is their story, their voices, in their own words.
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - IN THEIR OWN WORDS USA
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Newspapers.comBobby Reynolds talking to The Shanti Project'A Time of Change: Confronting AIDS' WATCH HEREThose People: AIDS in the Public' KQED San Francisco WATCH HERE'Family' Sung by the Los Angeles Gay Men's Chorus 1983 -
In 1985, four men, Adam Szczotko, Andrew Blyth, Bil Ayres, and Jo Walker each spoke on prime time television about their HIV diagnosis and the stigma around it. Speaking publicly challenged misinformation and societal backlash, humanising the struggles of those with HIV and promoting awareness and compassion. Their courage remains crucial in the fight against stigma and in advocating for the rights and respect of those affected by HIV/AIDS, even four decades on.
This is their story, their voices, in their own words.
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - IN THEIR OWN WORDS
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British Newspaper Archives / NewspapersTV Eye ' AIDS - The Victims' 1985 ©Thames TV. Watch Full Episode HEREDaytime (Sarah Kennedy) 1985 ©Thames TVPanorama 'AIDS The Race for a Cure' 1985 ©BBC. Watch Full Episode HERE -
Australian-born Reverend Gregory Richards, who began his tenure at a Feltham Parish in December 1976, quickly gained attention from the British press, earning the moniker “globe-trotting vicar” due to his extensive travels and community engagements. However, less than a decade later, the narrative surrounding him shifted dramatically when he became known as the “AIDS Priest” and “AIDS Chaplain.” This change stemmed from his work not just in the parish, but with young offenders at Chelmsford Prison and a gay man now with an AIDS diagnosis.
As HIV/AIDS was labelled the “gay plague,” tabloid journalists flocked to London’s gay clubs in search of scandalous stories involving the vicar. Despite their relentless pursuit, they uncovered no incriminating secrets, yet their sensational coverage incited widespread panic, leading to misconceptions among prisoners who feared they needed AIDS tests and parishioners who worried about contracting the virus from the church chalice.
We delve into the newspaper archives and soon learn much of what was reported, simply wasn’t true.
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - REV. GREGORY RICHARDS
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British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers -
Chris Egner embodied a vibrant spirit in his twenties, marked by an infectious enthusiasm and a deep-rooted faith that compelled him to help those in need. In 1984, his commitment reached new heights with an 'Organ Marathon,' where he showcased his remarkable talent by performing over 700 compositions, earning recognition in both regional and national newspapers.
His dedication to community support was unwavering, so when the urgent call for blood donors arose, he responded without hesitation. Tragically, Chris remained unaware that he was HIV positive—a grim reality stemming from systemic failings highlighted by the Infected Blood Inquiry. His donations, pooled with those from thousands of others, contributed to a batch of the blood clotting agent, Factor VIII. Although much of this batch was subsequently recalled, the British press sensationalised the recall, alleging that Chris had inadvertently infected 40 individuals, forever altering the course of his life and legacy.
We delve into the newspaper archives and soon learn much of what was reported, simply wasn’t true.
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - CHRISTOPHER EGNER
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British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers -
JOHN LEWIS was a Canadian-born music composer who gained a bachelor in Music, along with several awards and distinctions.
As the 1970s got underway John came to London and was commissioned to compose music scores for the renowned Ballet Rambert. A chance encounter at Rambert Studios and an interest in buying a synthesiser led John to join Brian Hodgson at his established, Electrophon Studio in Covent Garden. The pair composed music, released albums, and worked with well-known names from the music scene.
Little did John know that with all the trappings of London’s gay scene and the creative circles he no doubt mingled and networked. That there was a silent and deadly pandemic looming which would end his life just as he was near completing a score for BBC’s Dr Who.
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - JOHN LEWIS THE COMPOSER
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Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS and the works of John Lewis, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -
British Newspaper Archives / NewspapersDr Who - Mark of the Rani / BBC Radiophonic Sounds ©BBCWhere Are We Captain? by Wavemaker Hodgson/Lewis © Polydor RecordsNew Atlantis by Wavemaker Hodgson/Lewis © Polydor RecordsI'm a Computer ©Pete Davies - Goo-Q WebsiteHolberg Suite, Grieg - Performed on Piano by Gerhard OppitzThunder & Lightning (© Unknown) - by John Lewis, Gareth Marshallsea & C.Platt -
It was one thing to have your HIV/AIDS diagnosis and your private life dragged through the British press. It was another if you were a respected medical or healthcare professional with an HIV/AIDS diagnosis.
In 1992 & 1993 Dr. Curran, Dr. Clayton & Dr. Shuttleworth were not only vilified for their private lives but had their professional reputation scrutinised by the press causing widespread panic among their patients and the public. It is unforgivable that their reporting of these men didn’t show them the same level of care and compassion the Doctor’s showed their patients.
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - THE THREE DOCTORS
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British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers -
Martin Johnson met the late Diana, Princess of Wales on her first visit to the UK’s first AIDS hospice in February 1989.
But no stranger to the press Martin was ‘outed’ as a gay man when subject to a police “raid” which saw him arrested along with 36 of his birthday guests in 1982. Accused of hosting an “orgy” Martin put his case before the European Court of Human Rights, but what did they rule?
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - MARTIN JOHNSON
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British Newspaper Archives / NewspapersBBC - Princess Diana's visit to Mildmay Hospital 24 February 1989 -
In 1992 Roy Cornes was a 24-year-old haemophiliac, infected with HIV through contaminated blood products. Through no fault of his own he then found himself at the centre of a worldwide media frenzy.
Roy’s life was turned upside down by one woman who alleged Roy was “knowingly” and deliberately spreading HIV to women. The media dubbed him a “maniac”, a “monster” and the “AIDS Casanova”. With plans for “hits” on his life & MPs raising urgent questions, we look at what happened next!
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - ROY CORNES
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British Newspaper Archives / NewspapersITV News - Online Video ReportChannel 4 News Report -
“DO NOT REVIVE - AIDS” was the suicide note left by grammar school teacher John Hutchinson in August 1986. John's friends told the inquest he hadn’t seemed himself days before his death. John perhaps foreseeing his recent HIV test result being positive, without ever learning the outcome of his test.
We also look at two young men who took their own lives merely for ‘suspecting’ or ‘fearing’ they had HIV/AIDS. The coroner giving his verdict alluded to the then-recent 1988 AIDS campaigns and the fear and stigma they whipped up as not being helpful. With both young men testing negative for HIV post-mortem, we learn they had nothing more than minor, common ailments.
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - "DO NOT REVIVE - AIDS"
SAMARITANS
If you have been affected by this episode you can reach out to the Samaritans day or night:
CALL: 116 123 (24 Hours)
EMAIL: [email protected]
WEBSITE: Click Here
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British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers -
Will & Gloria once again delve into the British newspaper archives and attempt to unpick the real stories, of real people behind the sensational and attention-grabbing headlines of the 80s and 90s AIDS pandemic.
In a series finale Will & Gloria head to Brighton for the bank holiday weekend. Through the papers, the pair learn about the life of the UK’s first openly gay football referee, Norman Redman from West Sussex. However, very little is made of his years of campaigning for gay rights and HIV/AIDS prevention and care. Norman had to first contend with teams refusing to play because he was “homosexual”. Then teams refused to play when they learned Norman was “an AIDS carrier” as they deemed him “a health risk”.
The pair also uncover stories from the newspaper archives which include a visit to Brighton AIDS centre by the late Princess Dianna in 1990. A young man convicted of wielding an HIV-infected needled when challenged for stealing a bulb of garlic. And a new game being played in the school playgrounds of West Sussex called “AIDS”.
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - NORMAN REDMAN
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British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers -
Will & Gloria once again delve into the British newspaper archives and attempt to unpick the real stories, of real people behind the sensational and attention-grabbing headlines of the 80s and 90s AIDS pandemic.
In 1985 a 29-year-old man named Roger Youd was subject to a court order to be detained in Monsall Hospital when expressing he wanted to merely “go home”. Manchester council stated the order under the Public Health Act 1984 was sought because Roger was "bleeding" and given he had “AIDS” he was in their view “very dangerous” to the public. Little did they know the story would cause a national "furore" and Roger would eventually appeal to the Crown Court.
Staying in Manchester the pair look at the story of Angela Wilson who was diagnosed HIV positive in 1988 while on remand for shoplifting. Angela shares her story with a tabloid that dubs her "The AIDS Timebomb" before sharing Angela's heartache of becoming a drug addict at the hands of her abusive partner, turning to prostitution, and attempting suicide after her son is put up for adoption after she is diagnosed with "AIDS".
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - ROGER YOUD
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British Newspaper Archives / NewspapersAudio 'It's a Sin' [Episode 3] by Russell T Davis/Channel4 - Watch 'It's a Sin' - HERE -
Will & Gloria once again delve into the British newspaper archives and attempt to unpick the real stories, of real people behind the sensational and attention-grabbing headlines of the 80s and 90s AIDS pandemic.
In a series of child first’s, we hear the emotional accounts from brave parents who sadly lost their child to AIDS.
Irene, a mother who only learned she was HIV positive days before delivering twins discovers she only passed HIV to one of her twins. Doctors said only one of the twins contracting HIV was an “amazingly unusual case” and said to be a ‘first’. We also hear the story of one-year-old Antony Thorpe who was the first child in the UK to die due to AIDS after receiving contaminated blood in America when he was born 14 week premature.
And Eileen and Billy Quirk share how their 10-year-old son Stephen Quirk, was the first child living with haemophilia to die of an AIDS-related death after receiving contaminated blood products in the UK.
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - CHILD FIRSTS
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British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers'News at Ten' - Antony Thorpe report believed to be BBC -
Will & Gloria once again delve into the British newspaper archives and attempt to unpick the real stories, of real people behind the sensational and attention-grabbing headlines of the 80s and 90s AIDS pandemic.
Two men around 30, each with an HIV/AIDS diagnosis are on the same hospital ward. One is a patient and the other, a nurse. Both men were photographed with the late Diana, Princess of Wales as she opened the UK’s first HIV/AIDS ward at London’s Middlesex Hospital in 1987.
The patient on the ward only agreed to be photographed if he had his back to the camera in fear of being identified due to the rhetoric and stigma at the time. The nurse of the ward openly shared his HIV status with the waiting news cameras for the first time. But who were these courageous men, what happened to them and what impact did they have on HIV/AIDS stigma?
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - Ivan Cohen & Shane Snape
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British Newspaper Archives / NewspapersITN News archive reports 'Princess Diana/Broderip Ward' 1987BBC news archive / BBC Sounds 'Witness History' interview with nurse John O'Reilly [2017] FULL EPISODE HERE -
Will & Gloria once again delve into the British newspaper archives and attempt to unpick the real stories, of real people behind the sensational and attention-grabbing headlines of the 80s and 90s AIDS pandemic.
Scottish artist Edward Cairns, 34, who was also a gay man was found dead at his London home in October 1984. Edward’s untimely death which was thought to be AIDS-related, fell under the scrutiny of the West London Coroner Dr. John Burton. And it didn’t go unnoticed by the Coroner, the sensational headlines in the tabloid press along with the media presence at the inquest.
Given ‘Eddie’ was a very talented up-and-coming artist Will & Gloria also looked at how the press covered HIV/AIDS-related ART exhibitions within the UK and some of the people behind the ART.
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - Artist Edward Cairns
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British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers -
Will heads to Slough to surprise the hosts of The HIV podcast, Sarah & Jess. The trio then take a look at the HIVstory of the charity behind the podcast, ‘Thames Valley Positive Support’.
Between them, they unearth articles long since forgotten from the newspaper archives spanning the last four decades. Articles that include letters from readers with language that leave the pair spitting feathers. Sarah & Jess are then surprised, if not overwhelmed, to hear from two very special guests that were at the heart of it all in the 1980s & 90s.
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - TVPS 'This Is Your HIVstory'
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Thames Valley Positive Support (TVPS) HIV Charity Est: 1985
'The HIV Podcast' Sound bite: 'Sean-It's a Sin Special'
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'This is your Life' Theme Tune - BBC
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British Newspaper Archives / NewspapersThis is your Life' Theme Tune -
Will & Gloria once again delve into the British newspaper archives and attempt to unpick the real stories, of real people behind the sensational and attention-grabbing headlines of the 80s and 90s AIDS pandemic.
When London dentist Vikram Advani died of AIDS-related complications in 1993. Every major newspaper up and down the land seized the opportunity to vilify and stigmatise his good name and besmirch his reputation as a dentist and the memory of those closest to him.
Mr Advani’s former lover and loyal friend Dr Keith Watts, also diagnosed HIV positive and later dying of AIDS-related complications attempted to set the record straight by sharing his story in a major tabloid.
Will & Gloria also step back to 1987 and the reporting of the UKs first AIDS-related hospital ward, the Broderip Ward at London’s Middlesex Hospital.
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - Vikram Advani
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British Newspaper Archives / NewspapersITV/ITN News Channel -
Will & Gloria once again delve into the British newspaper archives and attempt to unpick the real stories, of real people behind the sensational and attention-grabbing headlines of the 80s and 90s AIDS pandemic. Featured in this episode is prisoner Del Sinclair, by his own admission had a string on convictions behind him. In 1985 he was featured in a national newspaper declaring he intended to ‘go straight’ and even publish a book on Prison food with a working title ‘The Good? Prison Food Guide’. However, 4 weeks later back on remand he routinely tested HIV positive and faced threats of violence from other inmates.
Other articles covered are those of a highly regarded Home Office pathologist refusing to carry out a post-mortem on a young man for merely “suspecting” the young man had AIDS. Another national newspaper ‘outs’ another man as being gay and being the 38th person in the UK to die of AIDS. Then in 1987 two gay men from Soho, London said to be “friends” were also denied a post-mortem when they died 3 weeks apart.
All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:
XTRA Tea Blog - Del Sinclair
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British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers - Show more
