Sylvia Browne, a well-known self-proclaimed psychic, is facing criticism from her followers on social media after her prediction about missing teenager Amanda Berry proved false. Berry was found alive in Cleveland on Monday after being held captive for over a decade, contrary to Browne's 2004 claim that she was dead.
In 2004, Browne appeared on the Montel Williams show and told Berry's mother, Louwana Miller, that her daughter was 'in heaven on the other side' and that her last words were 'goodbye, mom, I love you'. Miller died of heart failure a year later. Berry escaped along with two other women, and a child believed to be hers was also rescued.
This is not the first time Browne has been wrong about a missing child. In 2007, she told the parents of Shawn Hornbeck that their son was buried between two boulders, but he was found alive after four years. Browne's publicist at the time stated that she cannot be 100% correct in every prediction.
On Wednesday, Browne posted on Facebook: 'For more than 50 years as a spiritual psychic and guide... I have been more right than wrong. If ever there was a time to be grateful and relieved for being mistaken, this is that time.' Despite this, many commenters expressed anger, with one writing: 'I remember you on Montel Williams telling the family of Amanda Berry she was dead. What do you have to say for yourself?'
Browne, who has published 45 books and gained fame through regular appearances on the Montel Williams show, continues to have supporters. Some fans defended her, saying 'everyone makes mistakes' and that she has been right for them personally. Browne herself has claimed to be exceptional at spotting impostors in the psychic field.
