BREAKING: Tipperary's The 2 Johnnies release third installment of 'GAA Catfish' series

This week, The 2 Johnnies Podcast shares the third instalment of The GAA Catfish series, a story that captured national attention in 2022.

The GAA Catfish parts one and two exposed an elaborate web of fake profiles which deceived scores of men in Ireland, including football players and even Johnny B himself.

Despite initial plans for a BBC documentary, the project did not proceed as the alleged catfish, Nicki*, declined to participate.

Now, almost three years on, the story takes an unexpected turn.

In 2024, The 2 Johnnies were contacted by several men who believed they were being deceived by someone going by the name of ‘Aoife Kennedy’.

Upon investigation, it became clear that the original catfish, known as Cora O’Donovan, had resurfaced under a new alias.

Listeners will hear the account of County Conor*.

Conor initially matched with Aoife on Tinder, and their intermittent chats on Instagram led him to suspect something was off.

However, after persistent messages from Aoife’s so-called “brother” and “friend,” he resumed contact and even arranged for her to attend one of his matches in Croke Park.

The situation took a dark turn when Aoife claimed to have been raped by a GAA player and alleged other traumatic experiences, including being forced to have an abortion.

Conor, horrified by these claims, now fears false allegations could be spread about him or others.

He has also been informed that photos of his child were posted on Aoife’s account without his consent.

The 2 Johnnies acknowledge that this episode is heavier than its predecessors but believe it is vital to share.

They highlight the broader dangers of false allegations, which can harm innocent individuals and dissuade genuine victims from coming forward.

They also caution against engaging with people online without verifying their identities.

“In 2022, we never imagined revisiting The GAA Catfish. But as new stories emerged, we felt compelled to act. This episode is not about shaming anyone but about raising awareness and preventing further harm. It’s time to address this issue and call on social media companies to do more to combat fake profiles.” – The 2 Johnnies.

Joining the podcast is Clinical Psychologist and best-selling author Dr Malie Coyne, who brings her expertise as a contributor to MTV’s Catfish: The TV Show.

Dr Coyne addresses both the catfish and their victims, urging the perpetrators to seek help: “Think of all the time and energy you’re sacrificing to deceive others,” she says. “You are worthy of a healthy relationship, but to get there, you need to seek help.”

Dr Coyne also emphasises the emotional toll on victims: “To be duped and betrayed like this is a trauma that is not taken seriously enough. It can completely disrupt your sense of trust and stability.”

The 2 Johnnies remind listeners that help is available:

• Dublin Rape Crisis Centre: National 24-Hour Helpline at 1800 77 8888

• Garda Confidential Helpline for domestic abuse: 1800 666 111

The GAA Catfish: Part Three is available now wherever you get your podcasts.