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Irishman Buried Alive for 61 Days, Made No Money
18 Nov
Summary
- Mick Meaney survived 61 days buried alive for a world record.
- He earned no money despite becoming a global media sensation.
- A new documentary explores this forgotten endurance stunt.
Mick Meaney, an Irish labourer, achieved an unofficial world record in 1968 by burying himself alive for 61 days. Driven by a desire for fame and fortune, Meaney's ambitious stunt captured global attention, with supporters and media present for his entombment in a specially prepared coffin in Kilburn, London. This feat was intended to establish him as the greatest 'burial artist' and surpass his rival's record.
Despite the public spectacle, which included a telephone line for communication and food delivery, Meaney's dreams of riches did not materialize. It is claimed his promoter, Michael 'Butty' Sugrue, pocketed the profits from the event. Furthermore, Meaney's record was later contested and overshadowed by another performer, leaving him with no official recognition and no financial compensation for his daring ordeal.
Years later, a documentary titled 'Beo Faoin bhFód (Buried Alive)' sheds light on Meaney's forgotten chapter of endurance showmanship, featuring interviews with his family. Meaney eventually settled into a quiet life working for the council in Cork, passing away in 2003, forever marked by his extraordinary, yet ultimately unrewarded, attempt at global fame.
