Arne Cheyenne Johnson is Debbie Glatzel's boyfriend and a central character in the events of *The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It*. He becomes possessed by a demonic entity after a self-sacrificial act to save young David Glatzel, which leads to tragic consequences.
Arne Cheyenne Johnson's Role in the Movie[]
Introduction of Arne Cheyenne Johnson[]
Arne Cheyenne Johnson is introduced as Debbie Glatzel's boyfriend, present at the Glatzel family home in Brookfield, Connecticut, during David Glatzel's possession. Arne is deeply protective of both Debbie and David, assisting in the family's efforts to understand and deal with the malevolent entity.
During a pivotal moment, Arne attempts to comfort David during his possession and later pleads with the demon to take him instead. This act occurs amidst chaos during an exorcism led by Ed and Lorraine Warren. The demon seemingly accepts Arne’s offer, leaving David’s body and causing Arne to become possessed.
Arne Cheyenne Johnson After the Exorcism[]
In the aftermath of David’s exorcism, Arne is shown struggling with his health and mental state. He begins experiencing disturbing visions, such as seeing an old woman-like apparition and strange movements in his surroundings. These visions intensify while he is alone at home or at work.
In a critical sequence, Arne’s possession peaks while at home with Debbie and their landlord, Bruno Sauls. As Ed Warren recovers from a coma in the hospital, he realizes Arne has been possessed and urgently tries to warn the Glatzels. However, Bruno is attacked and stabbed 22 times by Arne during an episode where Arne sees him as a monstrous entity.
Arne Cheyenne Johnson’s Imprisonment[]
After being found wandering in the road covered in blood, Arne is arrested and charged with Bruno’s murder. During his interrogation, Debbie defends him, asserting that Bruno's death was caused by demonic possession. The Warrens work to provide evidence to support Arne’s claim in court.
While in the psych ward awaiting trial, Arne continues to face horrific visions. At one point, he witnesses a possessed patient eerily singing the song “Call Me” before being attacked by the entity.
Arne Cheyenne Johnson at the Climax[]
As the Warrens unravel the source of the possession—a satanic curse tied to a witch’s totem—Arne’s condition worsens. The demon controlling him attempts to force him to commit suicide. At a critical moment in the psych ward, Arne floats in the air, wielding a glass shard, intending to harm himself. Debbie intervenes, holding his arm and preventing him from completing the act.
Simultaneously, Ed and Lorraine destroy the occultist Isla’s altar, severing the demonic connection and saving Arne.
Arne Cheyenne Johnson at the End of the Movie[]
The movie concludes with Arne's trial, where he is found guilty of manslaughter but avoids the death penalty, serving five years in prison. During his incarceration, he marries Debbie, and the film notes that they remain married to this day.
Arne Cheyenne Johnson’s Personality[]
Arne is portrayed as protective, selfless, and courageous. His willingness to sacrifice himself for David demonstrates his deep care for others. However, his vulnerability to the demonic entity highlights his human frailty.
Arne Cheyenne Johnson’s Background[]
Arne is a young man from Brookfield, Connecticut, in a serious relationship with Debbie Glatzel. He works a modest job and dreams of a stable future with Debbie, even discussing plans to move out of town despite financial constraints.
Arne Cheyenne Johnson’s Impact on the Story[]
Arne’s possession serves as the catalyst for the film’s central conflict, forcing the Warrens to investigate the occultist's curse and its origins. His trial also highlights the legal and societal implications of demonic possession claims.
Arne Cheyenne Johnson’s Connection to Other Characters[]
• Debbie Glatzel: Arne’s girlfriend, who supports him unconditionally, even defending him in court.
• David Glatzel: Debbie’s younger brother, whose possession indirectly leads to Arne’s own encounter with the demon.
• Ed and Lorraine Warren: The paranormal investigators who work tirelessly to save Arne and prove his possession in court.
• Bruno Sauls: Arne’s landlord and victim, whose death serves as the primary legal case in the film.
Quotes[]
- I think I hurt someone.
- Being brave doesn't mean you're not scared. It means you are scared, but you hang in there.
- Look at me. I know you're still in there, Jeremiah David Burgess Just leave him alone, okay? Leave him alone and take me.
