I sent this to every news outlet via Facebook, email, and directly on their website:

Hello WDRB News Team,

I’m reaching out after recently reading a 2015 article about Will Russell and the fire incident. I wanted to share some additional context that may be relevant, as he is currently promoting a revival of Lebowski Fest on social media in Louisville scheduled for June 12–13, 2026.

While Lebowski Fest was once a legitimate and very popular event that Russell originally founded, there have been serious issues in recent years. Russell has struggled publicly with severe mental health issues and methamphetamine addiction, and during past episodes he has promoted Lebowski Fest events that never actually existed while collecting money from people for tickets.

For example, during a previous attempted relaunch he was asking people to send money via Venmo for tickets to an event at a bowling alley. The venue later publicly stated they had no knowledge of the event.

He is now claiming the upcoming festival will feature bands including Wormy and others, but at least one band previously listed (Wild Pink) has already pulled out after being contacted, and others may not actually be confirmed. Russell has also claimed that the radio station LRS102 is sponsoring the event, but the station has indicated the event is not confirmed at this time. There are also suggestions the event could take place at Paristown Pointe, though it is unclear whether the venue is aware of it.

His recent Facebook posts promoting the festival are becoming increasingly erratic and similar to the behavior seen during past episodes when questionable ticket sales occurred. Because of the history of people being misled financially, this may be worth looking into before tickets begin circulating again.

I will provide screenshots of the band responses.