John W. Hinckley Jr.’s Release
In September 2016, after attempting to assassinate President Ronald Reagan in 1981, John W. Hinckley Jr. was released from a psychiatric hospital in Washington, D.C. under specific conditions. He moved to Williamsburg, Va., where he lived with his mother.
Diagnosed with atypical psychosis and severe narcissistic personality disorder, Hinckley had a history of violent actions tied to a fascination with celebrity. Despite successful treatment, he had restrictions in place to prevent media contact and public release of his music without approval.
Freedom and Social Media Presence
In 2022, Hinckley’s restrictions were lifted, allowing him to engage on social media. At 67, he gained a following on Twitter and began sharing music and promoting performances. However, all his scheduled gigs were canceled due to backlash and threats.
Despite his attempts to move forward, Hinckley’s online presence made him a subject of mockery and fascination. His connection to the past, including his infatuation with Jodie Foster and the film “Taxi Driver,” fueled online jokes and ironic comments.
Response to Violence
Following another assassination attempt on a president, this time on Donald Trump by Thomas Matthew Crooks, Hinckley posted a message advocating peace on a different platform. His call for non-violence was met with mixed reactions, with many viewing it as a surreal turn of events in the already chaotic world.
