Influencer Sparks Controversy After Buying ‘Cat in the Hat’ Costume for $25,000

Natalie Reynolds has drawn controversy after buying the original Cat in the Hat costume worn by Mike Myers in the 2003 film for about $25,000.

The streamer, known for broadcasts on Kick, acquired the costume at a Propstore auction held on Aug. 26. The winning bid was initially described as $20,000, but Reynolds later said the total cost came to about $25,000. The item had been valued at between $12,000 and $24,000 and received eight bids.

Before receiving it, Reynolds posted a video warning followers that the performer’s soul was “apparently trapped inside the costume.” She also said someone who had previously owned the outfit advised her not to look directly at its eyes. Reynolds did not identify that person or offer evidence for the claim.

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Apparently trapped inside the costume.

After the costume arrived at her home, Reynolds placed it in a glass display case and called it “one of the most haunted props in film history.” In another video, she said she could see eyes behind the mask’s openings. Several users responded that the shapes were probably parts of the costume’s internal structure. The auction listing described ordinary wear, including dirt on the mask, matted synthetic hair and a spandex suit labeled “Mike Myers #1.” The lot also included the mask, gloves and hat.

The claim drew further attention because Mike Myers is alive. The actor, 63, remains publicly active and confirmed plans connected to a new Austin Powers film in June 2026. Meanwhile, images and videos showing the Cat in the Hat outside homes, schools and streets began circulating online, some generated with artificial intelligence. The trend reached education communities in the United States, where authorities warned about threatening posts naming schools, students or specific locations.

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One of the most haunted props in film history.