Can Robert the Doll Curse Me If I Look at His Photograph?
Social media users often type ‘I’m sorry, Robert’ under photos of Robert the Doll, a haunted figure in Key West, to avoid his legendary curse.
It’s one of the most common questions people ask about Robert the Doll: “If I look at his photo online, will he curse me?” The short answer is: not exactly. But like most things surrounding Robert, the legend has a long—and fascinating—history.
Where the Photo Curse Began
The idea that simply looking at Robert’s picture can bring bad luck grew out of internet culture in the early 2000s. As photos of Robert spread online, people began sharing spooky stories in forums and comment sections. If something went wrong after they saw his image—a flat tire, a breakup, a bad grade—they connected the misfortune to Robert.
Before long, “I’m sorry Robert” became the standard reply under his photos online. People typed it as a kind of digital apology, just in case Robert was watching. What started as a playful superstition snowballed into a worldwide trend.
The Camera Problems That Sparked It
The roots of the story go back to 1996, when Robert was first put on display at the Fort East Martello Museum. That only happened after author and researcher David Sloan began sharing Robert’s stories and encouraging the museum to bring the doll out of storage.
Once Robert was on display, visitors quickly noticed something strange. Cameras worked perfectly throughout Key West—snapping shots of beaches, bars, and friends—but when it came to Robert, the photos went haywire.
Film rolls used up entirely on Robert, with no other images appearing.
Batteries draining instantly the moment someone pointed at the doll.
Photos vanishing or failing to develop, except for the ones of Robert.
The incidents piled up. Finally, a tour guide suggested people try asking Robert’s permission before taking a photo. Strangely enough, the camera problems seemed to ease when people did.
From Asking Permission to Full-Blown Curse
Over time, the tale grew. What began as “ask permission, or your photo won’t turn out” evolved into something darker. Each retelling made the consequences worse: car accidents, broken bones, ruined vacations. The legend shifted from faulty cameras to a belief that Robert himself would curse anyone who disrespected him—whether in person or just by looking at his picture without showing respect.
By the time social media got involved, the belief had taken on a life of its own. Now, whenever his photo is posted, you’ll see a wave of comments: “I’m sorry Robert.” It’s become a ritual—a way for people to acknowledge the legend and cover their bases.
The Truth About Robert’s Curse
So, does Robert curse people for looking at his photograph?
Not usually. His curse seems to touch people who disrespect him in person—mocking him, ignoring the request to ask permission for photos, or treating him like a joke. Visitors who take him seriously and show respect rarely have problems.
But Robert has a way of making people nervous, even through a screen. That nervous energy—and the stories people share about misfortune following his image—has helped fuel the idea that the curse can reach through photographs.
Final Word
If you’ve seen Robert’s picture and you’re worried, don’t panic. The odds are you’ll be fine. Still, if it gives you peace of mind, you can join thousands of others in the simple tradition: whisper a quick apology, or even type it out online—“I’m sorry Robert.”
After all, when it comes to Robert the Doll, a little respect goes a long way.
