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THE PODCAST Ep. 16 / What Happened to Will?

I humbly ask that all of you, my supporters, respect my wishes and not share this podcast with anyone who isn’t on Patreon. I needed to talk this through and I felt I owed everyone here the truth. 

Thank you all so much for your understanding, support and love. -Dan

Comments

Thanks for doing this podcast and explaining what happened . I thought Will was just stoned all the time but I guess he was just lazy.

VegasTransCindy

By the way YouTube comments increase engagement and bump videos to the top of the algorithm.

David Metzler

"I know that the Koreans are talking about me...." That reminds me of the Seinfeld episode when Frank spies on the ladies at the salon. He knew Korean because he fought in the war. LOL.

David Metzler

I recently went through a friendship breakup and this episode helped me begin the healing process. It assured me I made the right decision in letting go of a toxic person. Thank you Dan for sharing this. Mad respect to you.

Mike & Christina

Respect ✊🏿

Joseph@melissa

Thank you for being so honest and real and releasing this.

Lily Losh

I’M CRYING. The way you tore into Will’s girlfriend had me dying! You are so passionate and honest Dan, I fucking LOVE IT.

Antoinette Galindo

I'm just offended you thought Buffalo had nothing to do with buffalo wings

The Real Krazy Kraz

I wish Dan did this alone and Rick should've shut the fuck up: trying to make jokes and shit. Who the fuck is Rick trying to protect? Good cop bad cop, GTFOH! Will is a god-damned loser and an ugly person (And I'm not meaning looks). He deserves everything happening to him and his THOT. Rick really pissed me off, I just wished Rick would've shut the fuck up! Absolutely annoying! Two and a half years following Dan and Will. Wherever you are, Will, Bros before Hoes.

CarmenMonoxide

Honestly I felt that Will didn’t bring anything to the show. I felt like he kinda sat in the background and waited for instructions. Brennan is great, he’s funny and you can tell he’s happy to be there. Love the show and can’t wait for more videos.

Adam Bolin

Thank you sharing your story, I am so sorry. My lips are sealed.

Carly R

I am always late to the party. This is crazy Dan. Reflect, relax and release. So glad that you cleared the air. I am so happy you are all carrying on.

Jenny Randall

Holy shit, I'm laughing so hard. Dan, I get it. I've been through a similar situation. It's so disappointing to see someone with potential just completely fuck up their life....especially after you've spent so much time working with. I really get why you are so pissed.

Teri Lynn

You know, I called this one...my intuition was DEAD on unfortunately. I checked this girl out a year ago, and knew she was trouble...saw all of her nastiness on twitter, her freaking out on his fans if they said he was cute, etc. It was pretty freaking scary, and it was obvious she wasn't a stable person. I personally adored Will, so the news he was gone devastated me. ADR got me through some extremely dark days last year. I honestly pray that he comes through this ok because she scares me. I honestly cannot understand his decision...I would never pass up such a great opportunity. It's too bad he chose trash over treasure. Anyway, thank you very much for explaining everything Dan, I feel that I now can have closure on the whole situation.

Reayvenne

The first time I saw her, I knew we weren’t dealing with a normal person. She’s really angry, resentful and doesn’t want to work. Glad he found his soulmate.

Dan Bell

You're married, Dan, and your spouse doesn't mind you traveling around? You must be a lucky man! And sorry about Will. The first time I saw his girlfriend, I got bad vibes, but I wasn't going to hate on a stranger. Seems my intuition was right. I'm sad to say that I didn't warm up to Brennen so quickly, but I think I'm getting there – he seems like a nice guy. Maybe post a disclaimer about the situation in the beginning of the videos? It would help clear the air and you wouldn't have to go into the messy details.

LW

Hey Dan. I was worried when it was announced that Will wasn't going to be in the new ADR series. Mainly due to the dynamics of the relationship between you all, but as soon as I watched the first episode that faded completely. Brennan brings his personality and that fits in with the two of you perfectly. I so sorry that you have been hurt so much the actions of others. Thank you for sharing.

Suzie Grimsted

Hey Dan, while I can only assume that the majority of your Patreons appreciate your candor with this whole subject, at the end of the day, we support YOU. I can't help but notice that it seems this whole unfortunate situation has taken quite the toll on you. Dare I say that I think you might be making too much of an effort in explaining yourself and your actions, especially on this forum, where I would think you have majority support from us, even if you had made mistakes. On the contrary, I think you acted thoughtfully and with conviction. I wish the best for Will and I hope he gets out of this abusive situation sooner than later. In the meantime, do yourself a favor and understand that your Patreons are YOUR Patreons, and we support YOU. I appreciate your making an effort to explain all of this, but personally, I'd rather see you healthy and focused on your art, which is what I'm here for. Fuck the drama and the haters. Please don't stress yourself out trying to explain yourself.

Zachary Ventrella

Not a bad idea!

Dan Bell

Thank you so much, Maria!!!!

Dan Bell

Thank you, Ciro!

Dan Bell

Thank you, Elaine!

Dan Bell

We can’t wait to meet her!!!! I was so honored to be her senior quote!!!

Dan Bell

I never quite understood the "where's Will" thing. I have to agree with Rick- things will change during the production of a show, and essence of ADR is still very much there in season 2. I just naturally assumed Will had moved on to something else. My favorite part of the episode was hearing a bit about how you got your start in media work. I'd love to hear a podcast (or series of episodes) about how you, Rick, and Sextia got your starts in entertainment.

Chet Breaux

Thank you Dan and Rick for taking the time to clear this us for all your Patreon fans! I know you want to finally put this to rest (Understandably), but I think what happened with many of the fans is that is like having a favorite show you watch on TV and then one of your favorite characters is all of a sudden no longer on the show....so even though it frustrates you that people keep asking about Will, with the fans not knowing what was going on, its only natural they would ask about Will, so don't let that get to you too much! Moving ahead....I love the new lineup and truly enjoy Jake and Brennan and feel you made a great choice in hiring them. We look forward to many episodes of hysterical enjoyment!!! Anyone who gives negative comments about the show now and not liking the staff....they should shut up and just not watch anymore, but they will be truly at a loss! Thank you again so much for all the hilarious entertainment you have given us!!!

Maria

Good podcast. I initially found it strange why Will stop appearing, but now it makes sense. But the the person you cast to replace him is doing an amazing job. I am sure it was a difficult decision, but in the end it pays off. You and your team are extremely talent. Keep the good work

Ciro Cardoso

10 seconds in, everything becomes serious with Rick talking about the day's frustrations... and then Dan plays the sad music. Perfect comedic relief.

Mystery Tails

At least we have one less tweaker bitch in Az.

AA-RON

Just want to say thank for taking the time to tell us what really happened.. I knew something was wrong.. I say good riddens to the shit!! Also THANK YOU Dan and Rick and fans for my daughter Cheyenne.. She is so happy. Great folks to have gotten to know..

Richard Deimler

Dan, very sorry you had to go through this. Thank you for clearing things up and getting it off your chest. The only way to go from here is up!!

Chris Russell

After listening I am so sorry you guys. It made my heart hurt that you've been dealing with this behind the scenes. Losing a friend this way isn't just heartbreaking but you have a very real period of grief but with all those emotions of dealing with potential issues from them while they are still around. In some ways it is more painful than a death. I hope you are all looking after yourselves and that you can turn a truly upsetting experience into something that is much more positive for you all. My mum used to say to me when I had issues with bullying when I was younger that 'success is the best revenge' and although i dont like using revenge as a word I hope you know what I mean. You guys carry on doing your thing, growing as artists, protecting the brand and staying out of silly manufactured dramas created by those who wish you malice. You are mature adults who have much better things to do with your time and your success speaks for itself. You dont need to waste another moment on their negative energy. I truly wish you all the best as always 💛

Elaine

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SABRINA!!!!

Dan Bell

It’s my birthday today so this episode is a really awesome birthday present!! Thank you!! 😀😀

Sabrina Ferguson

Thanks, Chris!

Dan Bell

So, what your saying is I have no chance of dating you or Rick? I wish I would have found out sooner so I could have saved my Patreon money! Seriously though, great podcast. With the original reason you gave, I had just assumed he left to do his own projects. Thank you for the insight.

Chris

YAYI can’t wait to listen!!! :)

Sabrina Ferguson

I appreciate it, Dan!

Dan Bell

Thank you, Rebekah!

Dan Bell

Thank you so much, Lori! I’m just glad to get it off my chest!

Dan Bell

Thanks, Kenda!

Dan Bell

Thank you so much, Kimberly!

Dan Bell

Idk. I didn’t remove anything.

Dan Bell

A wrong choice!

Dan Bell

You and me both, doll.

Dan Bell

Thank you, Frye!

Dan Bell

Thank you!!

Dan Bell

Will screwed all of us, Rosemary. Not a good person. Hope he’s happy with his toxic little snake.

Dan Bell

Volcanic messes.

Dan Bell

Will pissed away everything. I was getting tired of him halfway through season 1 because he was more interested in fucking Snapchat than actual work. The fame thing turned him into a whiny, ego driven, turd. Just made everything more difficult for me. Glad he’s gone!

Dan Bell

She’s a seat-stealing, sneaky little mama.

Dan Bell

She’s trash. They belong together.

Dan Bell

Thank you, Elaine!

Dan Bell

14 hours last night. Ahhhhhhhh

Dan Bell

Thank you, Spunk!

Dan Bell

Thanks, Morgan!@

Dan Bell

Thanks, Theodore. I am finally happy working on the show now that I have a team who doesn’t care about the fame bullshit. If an article came out, I won’t have to worry if they don’t mention everyone. No one will care. It’s like a, “THANK YOU, JESUS!” moment for me.

Dan Bell

Thanks, Katie!

Dan Bell

Thank you, Carrie!

Dan Bell

Fuck him. Exactly!

Dan Bell

I would of thrown the pizza in his face and told him to get the fuck off my property. Haha.

Dan Bell

I honestly don’t know how I would of gotten through this without him. He’s very special to me.

Dan Bell

Hahaha. We may be doing a Vegas meet and greet. Stay tuned. It’ll be free, my friend.

Dan Bell

Thank you, Ally. I never read Will as someone who would stoop this low. Never in a million years. In two weeks, it’ll be “Will who?” and I’ll be able to move forward and leave it behind. Such a shitty situations.

Dan Bell

Thank you so much, Larissa! Couldn’t have said it better!

Dan Bell

Thank you so much, Jessica!

Dan Bell

I didn’t get this far making poor decisions. I know how to run this show and I know what should be done and what shouldn’t. Will’s ego couldn’t handle that. Thanks!

Dan Bell

I agree!

Dan Bell

Thank you so much, Alex. It was very therapeutic for me to talk about this in a real way with everyone. I’m still pissed but it’ll pass.

Dan Bell

You guys are special to me. I don’t know how else I could do all of this.

Dan Bell

The reason I have the “Don’t date fans” rule is because I want to avoid SITUATIONS LIKE THIS at all costs. I end up cleaning up the mess while Mr. Wonderful scrapes spaghetti into a trashcan in the dish room. There isn’t a person out there who would want to be in this line of work who wouldn’t kill for the opportunities I afforded that little shit. Just sad!

Dan Bell

I think it would hurt anyone who has a close friend lie to them. Thanks, Joey!

Dan Bell

Thank you, Emily!

Dan Bell

Thanks, Jenna!

Dan Bell

Really appreciate it, Eileen!

Dan Bell

Thank you so much, Dan! Glad you all are enjoying the show!

Dan Bell

After hearing the whole show, I would just say that I'm sorry you went through that. Losing a friend is hard. The show is great and will go on, you have a fantastic crew, and frankly, for me, it's better now. I'm sorry to hear that you lost a friend.

Dan Norman

I'll take some free of that Maple Sugar! Ironically, I was just in Hamilton Ontario and had no idea BE lived there.

Jessica Miller

Is that on Carpetbaggers channel? I would actually like to see that.

Jessica Miller

I'm sorry you lost a friend. That sucks big time. I do like Brennan and think ADR is great and always will be! I love everything you do, Dan. <3

Rebekah Richards

Dan, I am so sorry. :( I think this will be a better season. Things change all the time - and people do not know the whole situation - so they are confused, but an explanation isn't needed and I am sorry that people are rude. You, Rick, the boys are doing great work. Thank you for doing what you do. If I had more money, Id pledge more - (When my paint nights take off. I will. I appreciate your work.)

Painting with Lori

That sucks, sorry you guys lost a friend. I think Brennan is a great fit, looking forward to the rest of the season!

Kenda Landry

Have to say the best podcast you’ve done to date!! Love the honesty and the support of the whole group !!! Never thought I’d be so happy paying for a podcast I just love and enjoy every week !!!! And I just have to say Brennan is great and perfect to be Ricks sidekick !! Thanks again Dan for all you do!! And of course Rick wouldn’t forget the star of the show !!! Thank you !!!

Kimberly

I was reading through the comments and noticed that the one I left was removed. Did I say something wrong? Maybe just a glitch?

Sebastien Bolduc

Thank you for addressing what happened with Will. Everyone makes a choice.

Amber B

Thanks for sharing the truth with us Dan, although I have to admit that I almost wish I'd only known the "we parted amicably and he moved on to his own projects" story...so much happier. This leaves me feeling down.

Tina Ramsey

I hope this doesn't come off wrong. I'm here for Dan and his talent. I do however love Rick. As far as Will being gone under the circumstances is fine by me. I very much dislike ungrateful people. My lips are sealed. This is only for Patreon. I'm here for the long haul. 💜

Donna Marie

I think I am one of the people guilty of saying 'He's off doing his own projects', since that was what was being said on various outlets. Obviously knowing the truth now, that won't happen again. Apologies for that. I guess in future a hearty 'He's gone, get used to it' shall suffice.

San Daly

There are those of us fans that have been loyal since Dan worked with Tyler Sigler on Neon Dreams. I have watched many Urbex/Abandoned videos & there is only ONE Dan Bell! When Will just vanished, we didn’t know y. Having come to really love ADR & check out time (season 1), it’s only natural to wonder what happened to Will. Plus there were other videos Will was a part of. I caught some discord during the Film It or live stream when Dan & Will were at Leakin Park one night. Will was sketched out. Dan said something like “get over it”. I knew Will wouldn’t b a part of that documentary.

Rosemary Bolino

You are a smart man to step around these two hot messes and keep moving.

Sarah Parviz

I can tell this was therapeutic in a way for you Dan. Will had (okay, I’m a tad biased as a patron) a shot to work with and use the resources of one of YouTube’s best filmmakers and he did nothing with it. I remember you talking on one of your interviews with Jake (and Brennan) about how mature he is for his age (So true and that comment makes so much sense now) and it really does show in the final product.

Andy Sorensen

WeeWee is perfect and never makes any noise! #weeweeisperfect

Sarah Parviz

And OH MY GOD, I never pass up an invite to a secret society. Count me in, Dan!

PIT-FACE

Ugh, I cannot fucking STAND poisonous women. Sounds like some true colors came out. I'm so sorry that they did so in such a shitty way. Here's to better days ahead.

PIT-FACE

I will listen soon, annoyingly got stuff to do this morning and around people i wouldnt want to overhear things but I just wanted to say that you have my support. I've been endlessly frustrated by the criticism brigade and personally i respect you guys so much that id support you with whatever direction you took ADR in anyway. The common thread in why I enjoy your art? You. You are a very talented person and you have built your brand admirably. You have that special talent of embracing several types of entertainment but still managing to create the same high quality entertainment across them all. Thats so rare. I shall be back when I have listened, and I thank you for your honesty and willingness to be vulnerable with people who care about you all as people aside from the content 💛

Elaine

I enjoy Dead Mall Series, ADR and the Dead Motel Series. I'm glad you came out with your feelings and the truth about the situation, especially in light of the stupid comments on YouTube following the ADR S2E1. I think Brennan fills the spot nicely and he appears a lot more involved than Will was. BTW Dan, I hope you get some good rest.

Brady Castleberry

Just FYI Dan, the priest's mother in the Exorcist was Greek, not Italian. I, for one, don't mind that Will is gone. Brennan is lovely. I've decided to call him Maple Sugar, which incidentally, ought to be his drag name as well.

Allyson Hughes

Really appreciate the honest explanation.

Spunky

Thank you for being honest. I'm sorry that happened to you and I do know how you feel. It is rough to let go of the person, and in the beginning it is too, but you have to always hope something positive comes from it, and it did. You have Brennan now and he seems to care about things. Yeah it sucks all of this happened, but just know that everything is better without that person. Some people we just can't help. Again thank you for the honesty, I appreciate it and I respect your wishes to keep it private.

Morgan Wamsley

Man I bet it felt so good to let all that out, Dan. It's sad to lose a long time friend in such a shitty way. Personally I think Brennen brings a young spirit to the show and as the season carries on the viewers will come around and forget about Will being gone. The heart of the show is still there and cast changes wont take that away. We appreciate you keeping shit real this episode, Dan.

TJack

I was going to share the carpetbagger Vlog of Dan and carpetbagger searching for syringes in Baltimore but deleted it when I saw the Will references were edited out.

G. Geef

I cannot imagine reading a comment like “bring back Will” after all of the hours of work you, Rick, Brennen, and Jake put into making ADR, and especially after the falling out with Will. Even though I was okay with not knowing all of the details, I really appreciate you letting all of us know.

Katie Barber

I appreciate you addressing the situation and give you props for handling it in an honest and open manner. Sometimes things just need to be said, not so much for the listeners/viewers sake, but just as a way to take care of yourself mentally and emotionally. Thanks, Dan, for everything you do.

Carrie Walters

Fuck him Dan. I too have found it annoying as all get out that people keep asking where Will is...who cares!? People need to get over themselves.

Jon Hebb

I had a really upsetting thing happen before I started listening (long story short a creep from my past delivered my pizza) and listening to this is pretty cathartic. I didn't tip him.

Venicebitch

Jake seems like not only a good producer, but a good friend as well!

Kerry Nichols

I always thought that Will was a bit smarmy... I think Brennen is way better. Can I pay $50 to meet him too? 😀

Jason McMillon

Moral of the story is it can be difficult working with friends. Sometimes you don’t know how people will react with fame/money. I think it’s good you found out now before you were any deeper into your friendship. I just recently stopped talking to a friend of 15 years who was toxic in my life. It was sad but my life is SO MUCH better. Such an energy vampire. I hate that people keep commenting about will. Have some respect people. Yes season 1 was amazing and the dynamic was good and fun but there is a reason he isn’t on the show anymore. The new season is fucking amazing! I love the dynamic between you guys. Keep it up!

Ally Cat

Man I SAW this coming!!! I could totally tell something was off. I could see a change in him and I knew he was in a relationship, and I was worried he was losing focus. Having NO CLUE of any of what was going on, it was obvious something was up. Dan, expressing your anger this way and venting was so therapeutic. You are dealing with grief and the death of a relationship with someone you truly cared about. You were hurt and taken advantage of by someone you loved and trusted and what you’re feeling is valid. Thank you for trusting us with what happened, and I promise to honor the trust you’ve placed in us. - PS, I just upped my monthly rate <3

Lars P

Thank you for sharing all this. Seriously. Good to know all of the things we didn’t know, loved you before and love you more now.

Jess Loo M

Thank you for sharing this. I've always loved and respected your work but its ten fold now. You know what your doing and make the decisions you do because you know what works!

Melissa Winders

Thanks for sharing Dan. Feels bad that things had to go that way but that is the only way to start something new and good, and the new gang seems good so far :)

Vladak

Dan and Rick, thanks for honestly telling us what went on. I know for me, I appreciate the openness and honesty from you guys, and I could hear your feelings through talking about this. You guys did sound a lot better in the end, like you just had a big weight lifted off your chest. You guys work too damn hard to have to put up with what you went through. You and Rick are good people who do amazing work, and like all the other Patrons, I support you completely Dan.

Kate

My favorite part of this podcast is, "you guys are special to me." Thanks, Dan, you're pretty special yourself! Thanks for clearing the air and letting us see behind the scenes. Support your decision 100% because you are right, you're the boss.

Jessica Miller

I couldn't have said it better.

Dylan King

This explains the weird Twitter posts! I am sorry that both Rick and yourself experienced anger, heartbreak, and frustration with the conflict involved. Thank you for letting us into your world and showing us the 'behind the scenes'. You have my support for your creative endeavors.

Erika Christiana

I can see why it's frustrating watching people constantly talk about bringing Will back and leaving negative feedback on your videos is shit. But you handled it professionally. I'm not here to talk trash about anyone but betraying someone let alone one of your best friends is just insane. You are right though. You don't owe an explanation to anyone (including us) but you are the shit for filling us in. I feel like many of us (especially myself because I'm fucking perfect) would kill to be able to have this experience and opportunity as he had. But I guess he felt differently. Not even as a fan but as someone who feels like I know your personality a bit, I am sorry you had your feelings crushed as you did. As far as dating a fan, I can totally see your point. It would sort of be like a manager of a store dating one of his employees. No matter what, it would be not be good for the business and end up in a total fucking disaster. I know this rant may not make any sense but I've also had a few rum and cokes and just want you to know You will always have my support!

Dylan King

Thanks for being honest with us Dan. I understand why that hurt you, and I respect that you did what you had to do. You did the right thing. Fuck the haters.

Joe Ledoux

Much respect and appreciation for you Dan and the rest of the guys for all the hard work and effort you put into bringing us great podcasts and videos!🙏🏻👊🏼

Emily

Hugs to you guys!! Rules are rules for a reason. Although I am sure a hard decision it is the best . Your work is something to be extremely proud you can tell it is well thought out and I love every minute of it!

Jenna

I'm 40 minutes in and I'm shocked a close friend was like that to you guys but unfortunately I've seen significant others screw up good relationships. It's such a shame. You guys are good genuine guys. I will say that you both my silence on the issue. I hope others follow your word as well

Eileen Carter

I want you to know that I absolutely loved the new ADR! Me and my entire family were in stitches laughing through the whole episode! We've watched it together 3 times already and I've watched it twice more by myself. Don't pay any mind to the trolls out there. The bigger your audience gets, the more of them you'll run into, but they're just trolls. ADR is an absolute success, and I can't wait to see more! Keep up the fantastic work and pay no mind to the idiots out there. There are way more of us than them, by a very large margin.

Dan Norman

I find it annoying that people keep complaining about Will being gone, like its the end of the world. He seemed like a nice guy but I already prefer Brennan, he's funny and we'll suited to the ADR role.

Deborah Raphael

Love Rick! Love Dan! Always!

Samuel Utz

Whatever this is about, I quickly ran outside and inhaled an entire cigarette so I could listen do this! I love ya, baby!

Dylan King


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