Stephen King ’s strange and macabre novels—and their big screen adaptations—have been terrifying readers for more than five decades. But why did the “King of Horror” insist on a pseudonym at the height of his popularity?

With The Long Walk in theaters and spooky season quickly approaching, editor Tyler examines the origins of King’s pen name—and how it allowed him to keep takin’ care of business—in this episode of I Never Knew That .

If you enjoyed the video, let us know at editor@biography.com! Learn more about King and other famous authors at Biography.com , and check out our full catalog of INKT episodes —including the acting inspiration for Emmy winner Owen Cooper .

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