This was a lot of fun showing you around. I appreciate you treating these people with respect and dignity. Hopefully we can do it again in a different city
Jeff you’re a true friend to the people in Kensington, thank you for guiding me around. This video would not have been possible without your help.. everyone go subscribe to Jeff’s channel!
Firstly, I want to commend you on 8 years of sobriety. I've never seen either of your channels before and I am only just 5 minutes in to the vid but I think I'll give you both a sub. Edit: subbed to you both.
Seeing the 26 year old woman who had scratch marks on her arm from drug withdrawal absolutely broke my heart. She was beautiful. Such a shame she's found herself in this predicament. I truly hope she gets the help she needs!!
Was in Philly in 2000 and it was rough, my friend's dad was saying to use his gun holster instead of his own, we were only going out for a drink! As they keep printing currency around the world all this is going to get worse unfortunately. People seem to only focus on the US Dollar but they've doubled the amount of pounds in existence in the last 5 years, all done by design to crash the west and bring in the great reset. Prep, pray and stay out the way people 🙏take care, cheers
This is so depressing man. How TF does the worlds richest country end up in this state. We are constantly told America is the greatest country in the world.
I think that this is the saddest video I have ever watched about this place. Instead of just filming people "doing crazy shit when high" for sensationalist content like so many others do, you took the time to talk to people and listen to their stories which is a BIG reminder that these are PEOPLE too. Excellent job with this video man!
All those 'let's judge the tweaker' videos represent the true downfall of content creators. They are not designed to educate, or create a bridge between the unaware and the addicted. They are simply there to mock the individual without any regard for what may have led them down that road. Anyone who exploits someone who has been emotionally damaged, has never understood or experienced just how quickly your life can get flipped upside down.
'Doing crazy shit when high' in inverted commas implying so-called or supposedly, not quotation marks quoting someone. Thank you for understanding punctuation in the English language.
Shit man, this video gave me tears. My brother died from addiction when he was 21 years old and people don't understand how easy it is to get stuck in the vicious circle of addiction. Bless you Wendall for making these types of videos and bringing awareness to these problems. Your a top lad
I live in Britain and I have those wounds. Even heroin can cause those type of wounds. I have them on both legs and it's wrecked my life. My fault. But I was so young when I got the first wound _ 19 yrs old and a working girl in St Pauls Bristol. Man oh man what I'd do to stop others from ending up like me. I should edit this by saying that I'm clean now but I' ve lost a lot and there is so much pain that I've put people through. Luckily I've rebonded with my family. But I will never forgive myself for the path I stupidly chose. I had everything man. I hope if you're an addict and reading this you can be honest with yourself and take responsibility for some of your actions and get well. Or not coz it might not be a choice at the moment for you but PLEASE try to get to a better place.
Well Written...Thanks For Sharing.. I'm 51 now & steel battling with addiction....!! I I'm from South London England..Steel Battling with the Demons....!! ❤🇬🇧😉
Can happen to anyone , we'll done for getting clean , 5yrs sober from alcohol addiction took a long time after relapse after relapse but that's addiction for you it can get a hold of you and not let go . Lifes good without that fake high 😊
Can happen to anyone , we'll done for getting clean , 5yrs sober from alcohol addiction took a long time after relapse after relapse but that's addiction for you it can get a hold of you and not let go . Lifes good without that fake high 😊
My mom grew up in Kensington in the 60s. It's so sad what it has turned into. Suprisingly, i've seen it worse :( I live like 20 minutes from there now in New Jersey. I have old friends and family who have died from addiction in the area and in Camden. Thank you for your kindness and awarness. Love from NJ
Excellent video. You couldn't have found a better TH-camr than Jeff to collab with on this subject, which is indeed a very difficult subject to cover. He brings a degree of respect, empathy and understanding that no other 'Kenzo' TH-camrs do. Kudos.
WOW, just WOW. I know I have said this alot about your content, but you have just gone onto ANOTHER level! They way you handle people and the genuine care you show, honestly blown away by this
@@WendallExplores it is absolutely heartbreaking to know the tragic background behind these people and the sad present , thanks for sharing so respectfully I think It does help to expand awareness about the humanity that we have created ...and to think about the systems we are still supporting and being part (in terms of social, political, economics aspects) ..thanks for all , grettings from SouthAmerica
Welcome to the USA Wendell you’re awesome my friend you kick ass can’t wait to sit and have my breakfast and watch you. Thank you for your hard work, my friend you rock.💯🙏🇺🇸🇬🇧
Really impressed with how you approached this video. So good of you to call out the ‘zombie’ tag too. You showed that these are actual humans living within this hellscape and I haven’t seen that in any video I have watched on this area before.
"In West Philadelphia Born and raised, on the Playground's were i spent most of my Days". Loved how you spoke to the poor Girl in White at beginning telling her that her Life was valuable, she was just Skin and Bone, heartbreaking, Great stuff Wendall
The words born, playground, days, girl, white, life, skin, bone, and great aren't proper nouns or place names or at the start of the sentence so don't use an upper-case letter for them.
@@mothspleen1343 Well, yes. Communication that is universally understood and actually able to be translated too brings us together. Over these subjects, or others. That is, if that was supposed to be a question that you wrote without a question mark.
Absolutely heartbreaking, been through opiate/heroin/cocaine addiction (i.v) this brought tears to my eyes. Only strengthened my recovery, thanks for this ❤.
Been watching your videos on and off but this one got you another subscriber. Tragic to see people in such desperation and hopelessness. But a glimmer of hope with people like Jeff returning to use their experience to help. Also interesting to see the level of support available and reported on quite positively by people themselves. We might have a few less drug deaths here in the UK if there were more resources available! Really glad you had the opportunity to do this vlog it has really demonstrated your talent and potential. Hope it helps get you the recognition and resources to do more trips abroad 👍🏼
I’ve been trying find my friend for yearsss out of all the videos I’ve watched this the first time seeing her😢 Rachel I pray you get better and I love you
You’ve approached that with great sensitivity and care. Great vid sir and an eye opener. I know near the start you couldn’t show some stuff, but the expression on your face said it all.
Hi Wendall, Italian guy here! I love all of your videos, but this one in particular! Over the years, we've always been told about the greatness of the USA...but all that I'm seeing is sheer deprivation and poverty, really at a "off the scale" level. Greetings from 🇮🇹
This is what our politicians want the future of Britain to be. They think America is the shining light to emulate. We're getting there folks. At this rate, another 5 or 10 years and our cities and towns will be like this.
I've been watching the odd video on Kensington for several years now and it never stops being shocking. The abject poverty, the sense of despair, and the troubled lives that these people lead while hooked on drugs. It's worth remembering that they are someone's daughter or son who once lived a childhood of innocence. It's just a sad, sad situation.
It’s like I clicked thumbs up but feel guilty doing it, no so that I like what’s going on just to appreciate a good honest and respectful episode. Good material sad story
I've viewed Jeff's channel for the last two years, and he was the right YT guide to Kensington for you, Wendell. He's always given us a sensitive portrayal of the lives of people there.
It's great to see someone from the UK exposing the dangers, with people being out on the streets taking drugs... There is always hope out there 🙏. Good channel mate 👏
What a fabulous documentary. I follow Jeff's High On Life from the UK he's an inspiration. A real insight to such tragic lives and circumstances. I often watch the live webcams and it breaks my heart, especially Amber.
I live here in Philly man and this is something that affected every single family in the city,,Kensington had taken more friends than I can list,,watching this brings tears to my eyes because it’s become normal and it shouldn’t
Genuinely refreshing to have a Bald and Bankrupt type figure that isn't a sex tourist, or exploiting his enviroment for clicks, you have actual insight to give no matter the location you visit, never change Wendall
Oh my, wendall, I can’t believe that you are here in the USA, I watch all the videos from the UK, when you go to the pubs, and Explora little towns, also when you went to Spain, and you are with Jeff he’s my favorite TH-camr, you just made my day, welcome to the US, BTW we also have pubs here ha ha ha, Take care. God bless.
Dude! This was a BRILLIANT peice of investigative journalism. The way you connected with the subject and it's participants/captives shows you have potential to take this FAR! Already subscribed. Can't praise this new direction enough.
The most shocking clip for me was children walking down the street. Breaks my heart that they're desensitised to seeing adults in catatonic states in large numbers like that! I appreciate the gritty & insightful content Wendall.
Where they used to call drugs / addiction a disease, now the drugs are a literal disease, it ain't right, and you did get the right guy to tell the tale there 👌🏻 Get well soon Philly ✌🏻❤️🙏🏻
The indonesian/SG, asia approach would fix it by removing drug dealers directly; while this would be the authoritarian conservative approach ... Hence no more drugs lol.. As they have 0% drug addicts. That lady says it herself.. 2 choices.. JAIL or rehab.. JAIL would actually be 100% more effective, as they wouldn't have access to outside drugs.. its why they NEVER choose jail., they are only enabling their behavior.
Zero addicts in Indonesia? You smoking crack? You are well off the mark. As for zero drugs in jail, there are more drugs in prisons than on the streets. Please do some homework as you spouting absolute rubbish.
I live in Philly I’m born and raised…gotta say I appreciate the light your bringing toward this I have kids and hate some areas and what it stands for so thanks for bringing some attention to this every little bit helps!
I love that you and Jeff treated the people with respect. Actually, the people that you interviewed were all very articulate and gave a real insight into the problems in the area. I wish them well.
Just finished watching this mate absolutely touched my heart watching this my mom was addicted to drugs and alcohol and ultimately it ended up in her being murdered in middlesbrough uk. Drugs destroy lives family and friends its so hard to see people living like this. My brother and sister both from the same mom are both hooked on drugs also! If i wasnt so bad with my anxiety and mental health helping these people on the streets and people with addiction would be my dream to help them all!! Top work ❤
Unfortunately I can name pretty much everywhere u stopped to see my neighborhood. I live diagnol behind the library on Clearfield. My 3 kids all had to cross Kensington just to go to school and I’m proud to say that I beat my fight with percocets about 2 or 3 yrs ago. I had to raise my kids inside the house aside from them walking to school. My 2 oldest have graduated highschool. My youngest still has to walk zigzagging to not be near the dealers nor the junkies. Thankfully I have taught my kids about what to do and what not to do. It really sucks being a resident out here. It’s just an absolute hott mess. Thank you for coming out here to see the struggle out here. It’s 💯 real and not just only Kensington. U can go to center city and see junkies out there and the rats. Ewe they are like up here the size of cats. Again thank u for treating the drug addicts with the upmost respect. In the end it’s up to our higher power to judge them. That’s just my belief. I treat humans with respect until it’s not reciprocated then u must deal with my hulk counterpart 😂😂❤❤❤😊😊 just wanted to make someone smile. @joe I’m glad u got out before it got this nasty. Everyone stay blessed and safe anywhere u go. 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
Really enjoy your content mate. Where others might dress up their content and mask some things that are unpleasant, your stuff is raw and pure. Raw and pure insights into real-world places and real-world people. You're personable and don't come across as someone trying to get something out of the people you interview. It's obvious you want to give a platform to those who might never have had the opportunity to share their story before and the sincerity of the content shows. Very underrated channel, keep it up!
Thank you so much to you and Jeff for treating the people in this video with so much respect and sensitivity. None of us are immune from their situation, it only takes one significant life event, a missed pay check or two to potentially find yourself in the same situation. I have the upmost compassion for them and I wish that for once, politicians would show real commitment to change and practice what they preach.
Subscribed to Jeff's channel,good man. Heart breaking video to watch,I will pray for those souls to find peace. God bless Bon Jovi,what a great way to give back,surprised that was never a story on the news. Oh sorry,i forgot mainstream is nothing but negative. Well done Wendall,great work.
I promise you looking at this video they cleaned Kensington right up. Just about 3 months ago you would not be able to walk there. It was an Absolute Circus of Filth. Injecting themselves zombies everywhere.. Little different then you found in Croydon and Slough 😅 Great video Man.
I wonder if the locals have become desensitised to seeing people openly in such states. It says a lot about the police, government and their attitudes to treatment for addiction and maybe metal illness too, although i don't claim to know much about American politics but it makes you wonder! Massive respect Wendall for making this video.. and all your videos! Also, that manscaped add...wendalls wondefull walnuts 🤣
Sadly its like a fire that spreads out of control. The small changes you see like the housing and the resources over and over. It may not be the first time but maybe the next day a relative comes down for some of those resources or a friend or classmate or the person in need of help. Slowly change can be made. Just moving the tents will not help but the resources will. I have seen it in some bad sections of Upperstate New York.
Of course they have. Visited the west coast with my mom and sister and we were shocked not only by the drugs and homelesness but how everyone else living there acted like it was a normal.
Im from Manchester here in the UK and have visited Philadelphia on quite a few occasions as my uncle on my dads side moved to Pennslyvania in his early 20s, first to Pittsburgh, which definitely has its issues, and then over to Philadelphia. Hes drove us through the North Side of Philly to the suburb on the edge of the city where he lives on many occasions, and the first time he did so I was absolutely shocked at the poverty and deprivation. Kensington is not a place you want to be after dark as is most of Inner City Philadelphia especially on the North Side of the City.
I’m from London but got a train from NYC to Philadelphia a few years ago. I didn’t go to those tougher areas but I could tell just from what I saw from the train (which went through the north side of the city). Between 2020 and 2023, the city saw 500-550 murders each year (and obviously many more non-fatal shootings), which is more or the around the same as the entirety of the UK (which has 65 million more people). Good news is that those numbers now seem to be on the decline (and quite dramatically this year, as with other cities like Baltimore).
Thanks Wendell , welcome to the US , Jeff’s a great friend of mine and he has been such a great influence on many people! Thanks for sharing your experience with us ,and Jeff , I think the world of you my dear friend! I Love you XOXO ❤️❤️❤️🥰😘✌🏼💫🙏🌟💞
Wendall, I was a bit worried at the start of the video as I thought you were going to be walking there alone, you were definitely smart to have a local drive you around Kensington and North Philly especially the hoods, it isnt for the faint hearted thats for sure. Its really sad to see the trauma these people are going through and the social problems this city has because it is a great city with a lot of culture, architecture and a lot of great people.
Wow Wendall😢big respect to you for this vlog. I found it very moving and distressing. It looked bloody aweful mate. You are a much braver man than me. Your care, concern and compassion for people was clearly palpable. I was emotionally worn out by the end of the video, it was so so intense. Thankyou for dealing with this material so sensitively and professionally. ❤ ps say hi to Jeff top bloke too.👍
I agree, I like a lot of similar TH-camrs but Wendall seems a cut above. Louis actually did Kensington back in 2011 I think, it was bad then but nothing like now
Wow was not expecting an upload of this magnitude! Thank you for showing us your experience in Kensington. It really is a living hell there, you picked a good guide to get you safely through. I don't know what the solution is, but these people need to get out somehow!
I've not seen ur page until now, it's cool that Jeff is showing you around I can only imagine what that is like in person because I've only seen it through the television. I'm in florida, Clearwater area, I've always wanted to visit London since I was a teenager into punk music lol. Hopefully someday. It was great to get a lesson in "Wendells Walnuts"😂 and then see the craziness that is Kensington. That 1st girl that u spoke with was heartbreaking. I JUST saw an interview w Joy recently, i cannot fathom having all the certificates & degrees that she has then working as an RN all while fighting that addiction. I went thru being prescribed pain meds...A TON of them for 14 years. Laws started changing and i went on Methadone. Its tough to say the least. Hope ur having a nice stay here in the 🇺🇸 USA! ♡✌🏼
That's awesome you've been to Clearwater! It's soo different now, like most everything it's just changed A LOT - the beach is mostly big hotels. BUT yes, the beach is beautiful & with all the tourism, it's necessary I guess. I subbed btw, look fwd to watching more! Thanks for the reply & enjoy the rest of ur stay😊 ♡ ✌🏼
That place is extremely scary. I've been there. It's a whole different experience in person. You will see how messed up it really is. I slipped into a psychotic depression and wanted to off myself, I went here and found the stuff within 5 minutes. I eventually wanted to live again and got off of it. Don't do it. Don't do it. Don't do it. It's the most disgusting stuff ever. How quick it turned me into something I wasn't was extremely scary. It sucked out my soul. That was only 2 months too.
Thank for coming down here with respect and humanity for the lost cuz at the end of the day there human just like u and I and lot of out of towners come down here and try to exploit them and there stories for the own monetary gains thank you for blurring out the sadness aswell
I have be following the stuggle for years there,i have seen the worst wounds,skin being eaten alive.most woman dates to feed the habbit and many woman just vanish or are found dead,the police are so used to it now that its no big deal to them,heart breaking.
Whats awful is the clear lack of mental health support in the US. Complete disregard for people. Sadly the UK is going the same way. I know it won't solve all problems but theres a lot to be said for it.
So true prevention is better than cure , maybe if these people had a place where they could get help for issues through childhood etc there lives could be very different .
This is what extremist politics does to a country. I couldn't believe how far the US had fallen when I was there last year. I genuinely never want to go back there!
For God's sake, mate, stay safe. You are right. You are in a totally different place. Really amazing video, both of you. Filmed with respect and sensitivity. Very well done. Just be safe in the States. Things can go sideways really fast. I have so much respect for you having the guts to do this!
@WendallExplores I always think "there, but for the grace of God, go I" when I see this sort of video. I spent 10 years in Seattle, over half of that addicted to H. It's a crazy hard road, but one can get through it. I really respect how you humanize the people with a sickness and living in a very bad situation. Huge respect to you and Jeff for what you are doing! 🙏
It was interesting to see how someone from another country is viewing our city. I’m 67, born & raised in Philly. I walked those streets as my family goes back over 100 years in Kensington & Fishtown & it’s home. The drugs really started in earnest by the early 1970’s. We lost many factories in the area as well. City government has been a mess for decades. All these things have contributed to the things you now see. At our heart, we are good people. We love to talk to outsiders. Hopefully things might change.
The people in Philly were very welcoming & friendly for the most part. I visited because I see a lot of similarities between Philly & my original home the midlands UK. De-industrialisation has caused many issues for the working classes.
I'm a teacher. I've taught k to 12th grade kids, worked in upscale PA neighborhoods but also NE Philly, you really feel for these kids who have to raise themselves. Real!
@@debraweik3837 apprantly most of them have no parents due to them being in prison or on drugs and they are either raised by their grandparents or put in care
Wow Wendall, your Cornwall Amazon days seem a long way away from this video. This was powerful and a must watch. Well done for doing it. Desperate people, in a desperate place and it all seems to be allowed to happen. Just awful. Good work sir!
The first 5 seconds of this vid - the thing that hits me is the sunshine and blue skies. THAT in itself tells me that no way is any place in the USA worse than the UK. You have all the deprivation, crime, addiction, stabbings and even shootings in the UK now but it’s dark, cold, wet and windy 8months of the year in Britain. Even the weather is trying to kill you in the UK!
You are full of bull. There are many places in the US with bad weather. Then the heat in the US in many states is absolutely horrible. 100f in summer for months. I will take British weather over that any day. It's only dark for four months and only annoyingly for two months plus we get sunset at 10 30pm mid summer which is great.
You’re delusional, and in no way, shape or form do I condone violence, but the pretty weather here has nothing to do with how gut-wrenching crimes can be. The US has a few cities with per capita crime rates higher than places in Mexico (New Orleans and Baltimore)
That's funny! I watch a lot of content from the UK and it seems like the weather there makes everything worse. I live in Seattle where we have a similar climate to parts of the UK. However, it just seems more unaccommodating and grim. I feel a real kinship to the British people. More than any other Europeans. I would love to visit but I don't think I could live there.
I've followed the chaos at Kensington for a few years now, that was a very good video to watch, it's good people are getting more help if they want it 💓
Im from the UK . I've just subbed to Jeffs channel. Im truly hoping those drugs don't make their way over here, but Im sure they will. Theres loads of people addicted to substances here where I live, but it's a different league entirely. I truly hope they all get the help they deserve and find their way out of hell on earth.
@@MbisonBalrogthere's only very small amounts of these drugs in the UK. Fentanyl is only here in bits n pieces, nothing major. These hoods in usa now have different mix of drugs on the street that are nowhere near coming to the UK. The main readon is be aise heroin is still relatively easy to get. On the American streets the heroin got harder to find and so the man made alternatives were created instead and look at the mess that created. The moral of the story is dont stop the heroin and then you won't get these far more damaging substances.
I think you did a great job showing how it all is there. Respectful by not showing the people themselves too much, but your reaction really tells the story
Get 20% OFF @manscaped + Free Shipping with promo code WENDALL at MANSCAPED.com!
N1 . I,ve been looking for a nut shaver. Loving your vids
@@paulrobinson8795 quality shaver, your nuts deserve it
Leave them nuts natural. Shaved ones stick to your legs
@@eon14873 you have a very liberal partner 🤣
@@WendallExplores lol.she is pretty chilled
This was a lot of fun showing you around. I appreciate you treating these people with respect and dignity. Hopefully we can do it again in a different city
Jeff you’re a true friend to the people in Kensington, thank you for guiding me around. This video would not have been possible without your help.. everyone go subscribe to Jeff’s channel!
thanks for everything you do man
Firstly, I want to commend you on 8 years of sobriety. I've never seen either of your channels before and I am only just 5 minutes in to the vid but I think I'll give you both a sub. Edit: subbed to you both.
@@johnsmith-ik8ilI really appreciate it
Well done on your 8 years sobriety 👏 ❤ from Scotland 🏴
Seeing the 26 year old woman who had scratch marks on her arm from drug withdrawal absolutely broke my heart. She was beautiful. Such a shame she's found herself in this predicament. I truly hope she gets the help she needs!!
I know poor lil girl 😢💔
I'm going to keep my eyes out for her...I'm from Philly....and her story broke my heart 💔
I'm just going to say. She is beautiful
@@isurvivedscammy3109 She definitely is. Which makes the situation she's found herself in even more upsetting
@@santosdellior6917I’m from Philly as well let me know how she making out
You approached this much more sensitively and respectfully than most other TH-camrs would have, love your videos
Thank you
Was in Philly in 2000 and it was rough, my friend's dad was saying to use his gun holster instead of his own, we were only going out for a drink! As they keep printing currency around the world all this is going to get worse unfortunately. People seem to only focus on the US Dollar but they've doubled the amount of pounds in existence in the last 5 years, all done by design to crash the west and bring in the great reset. Prep, pray and stay out the way people 🙏take care, cheers
Are you talking about the Manscape advertising?😅😂
with the possible exception of the manscaped ad......
@@steglash4045 😂😂😂
This is so depressing man. How TF does the worlds richest country end up in this state. We are constantly told America is the greatest country in the world.
I think that this is the saddest video I have ever watched about this place. Instead of just filming people "doing crazy shit when high" for sensationalist content like so many others do, you took the time to talk to people and listen to their stories which is a BIG reminder that these are PEOPLE too. Excellent job with this video man!
Thank you for understanding the video
All those 'let's judge the tweaker' videos represent the true downfall of content creators. They are not designed to educate, or create a bridge between the unaware and the addicted. They are simply there to mock the individual without any regard for what may have led them down that road. Anyone who exploits someone who has been emotionally damaged, has never understood or experienced just how quickly your life can get flipped upside down.
'Doing crazy shit when high' in inverted commas implying so-called or supposedly, not quotation marks quoting someone. Thank you for understanding punctuation in the English language.
@@thekeysman6760 Ale v čestině bylo by ňeco velmi jineho :)
Exactly. Well said.
Shit man, this video gave me tears. My brother died from addiction when he was 21 years old and people don't understand how easy it is to get stuck in the vicious circle of addiction. Bless you Wendall for making these types of videos and bringing awareness to these problems. Your a top lad
I’m sorry for your suffering
That's the problem people don't understand addiction but they judge them
It's weird watching a documentary that's 5 minutes from my house
Well done Jeff for been clean so long. You deserve a huge medal!!
I live in Britain and I have those wounds. Even heroin can cause those type of wounds. I have them on both legs and it's wrecked my life. My fault. But I was so young when I got the first wound _ 19 yrs old and a working girl in St Pauls Bristol. Man oh man what I'd do to stop others from ending up like me. I should edit this by saying that I'm clean now but I' ve lost a lot and there is so much pain that I've put people through. Luckily I've rebonded with my family. But I will never forgive myself for the path I stupidly chose. I had everything man. I hope if you're an addict and reading this you can be honest with yourself and take responsibility for some of your actions and get well. Or not coz it might not be a choice at the moment for you but PLEASE try to get to a better place.
It’s difficult often people are escaping from mental health and abuse. You have done well try and forgive yourself keep smiling 😃
Well done, keep up the good fight. Even telling your story may help someone without you even knowing. ❤
Well Written...Thanks For Sharing.. I'm 51 now & steel battling with addiction....!! I I'm from South London England..Steel Battling with the Demons....!! ❤🇬🇧😉
Can happen to anyone , we'll done for getting clean , 5yrs sober from alcohol addiction took a long time after relapse after relapse but that's addiction for you it can get a hold of you and not let go . Lifes good without that fake high 😊
Can happen to anyone , we'll done for getting clean , 5yrs sober from alcohol addiction took a long time after relapse after relapse but that's addiction for you it can get a hold of you and not let go . Lifes good without that fake high 😊
My mom grew up in Kensington in the 60s. It's so sad what it has turned into. Suprisingly, i've seen it worse :(
I live like 20 minutes from there now in New Jersey. I have old friends and family who have died from addiction in the area and in Camden. Thank you for your kindness and awarness. Love from NJ
Excellent video. You couldn't have found a better TH-camr than Jeff to collab with on this subject, which is indeed a very difficult subject to cover. He brings a degree of respect, empathy and understanding that no other 'Kenzo' TH-camrs do. Kudos.
WOW, just WOW. I know I have said this alot about your content, but you have just gone onto ANOTHER level! They way you handle people and the genuine care you show, honestly blown away by this
Thank you for the kind comment mate
Super video !
My two favourite TH-camrs together !!!!
I’m from the uk but I have been following Jeff for 18 months.
Stay safe Jeff and Wendall 😊
Jeff is a superstar mate
@@WendallExplores it is absolutely heartbreaking to know the tragic background behind these people and the sad present , thanks for sharing so respectfully I think It does help to expand awareness about the humanity that we have created ...and to think about the systems we are still supporting and being part (in terms of social, political, economics aspects) ..thanks for all , grettings from SouthAmerica
Absolutely NO WAY! Wendall in the US, that's awesome, this is the video we needed.
Welcome to the USA Wendell you’re awesome my friend you kick ass can’t wait to sit and have my breakfast and watch you. Thank you for your hard work, my friend you rock.💯🙏🇺🇸🇬🇧
It was an eye opener! Great people
Really impressed with how you approached this video. So good of you to call out the ‘zombie’ tag too. You showed that these are actual humans living within this hellscape and I haven’t seen that in any video I have watched on this area before.
Thank you for understanding
"In West Philadelphia Born and raised, on the Playground's were i spent most of my Days". Loved how you spoke to the poor Girl in White at beginning telling her that her Life was valuable, she was just Skin and Bone, heartbreaking, Great stuff Wendall
The words born, playground, days, girl, white, life, skin, bone, and great aren't proper nouns or place names or at the start of the sentence so don't use an upper-case letter for them.
"Living it up" ✌️
@@thekeysman6760 not really the important element of this though is it mate
@@mothspleen1343 Well, yes. Communication that is universally understood and actually able to be translated too brings us together. Over these subjects, or others. That is, if that was supposed to be a question that you wrote without a question mark.
This isn't West Philly😂
Thank you for humanising the most maligned people in society.
Did you not view them as human before? How odd
They dehumanise themselves
@@mustertherohirrim7315wrong it's a disease caused by synthetic drugs.
Balderdash! Nobody forced them to take drugs.
The deadbeats choose drugs
Came from Jeff’s channel - KENSINGTON YOGA is crazy to see IRL. Great collab looking forward to seeing more of your videos!!
I'm uk based and watched many vids on Philly & its problems. AML films is another good channel. Also King Frank is the other one.
Absolutely heartbreaking, been through opiate/heroin/cocaine addiction (i.v) this brought tears to my eyes.
Only strengthened my recovery, thanks for this ❤.
The woman 26 felt sorry for her
11 years on the streets which means since she was 15. Poor woman.
Why? She chooses drugs 1st everytime
@@tatsnneeps341 i hope you experience addiction personally.
Been watching your videos on and off but this one got you another subscriber. Tragic to see people in such desperation and hopelessness. But a glimmer of hope with people like Jeff returning to use their experience to help. Also interesting to see the level of support available and reported on quite positively by people themselves. We might have a few less drug deaths here in the UK if there were more resources available! Really glad you had the opportunity to do this vlog it has really demonstrated your talent and potential. Hope it helps get you the recognition and resources to do more trips abroad 👍🏼
Thanks for watching and subbing, and for the kind review
I’ve been trying find my friend for yearsss out of all the videos I’ve watched this the first time seeing her😢 Rachel I pray you get better and I love you
You’ve approached that with great sensitivity and care. Great vid sir and an eye opener. I know near the start you couldn’t show some stuff, but the expression on your face said it all.
A place of terrible things mate
Hi Wendall, Italian guy here! I love all of your videos, but this one in particular! Over the years, we've always been told about the greatness of the USA...but all that I'm seeing is sheer deprivation and poverty, really at a "off the scale" level.
Greetings from 🇮🇹
There is very bad poverty in US, but also very much good living too.. a land of extremes
Distressing man. We think we have it bad here in the UK but this is levels above. Thanks for your work.
Its still bad here in uk
worst neighborhood in the usa. so damn depressing its like hell
UK doesn’t look too bad at all after watching that place it’s literally a hell hole those poor people 😢
@@Leojw10no where near on this level
This is what our politicians want the future of Britain to be. They think America is the shining light to emulate.
We're getting there folks. At this rate, another 5 or 10 years and our cities and towns will be like this.
I've been watching the odd video on Kensington for several years now and it never stops being shocking. The abject poverty, the sense of despair, and the troubled lives that these people lead while hooked on drugs. It's worth remembering that they are someone's daughter or son who once lived a childhood of innocence. It's just a sad, sad situation.
It’s like I clicked thumbs up but feel guilty doing it, no so that I like what’s going on just to appreciate a good honest and respectful episode. Good material sad story
I hear you..... we are "liking" these incredible videos not because we like what is going on, but instead for the quality of the content.
😢 I am just so sad to see that young Girl who said it’s either jail or drugs and death 😢 it’s such a sad sad situation
What a world 😮
I've viewed Jeff's channel for the last two years, and he was the right YT guide to Kensington for you, Wendell. He's always given us a sensitive portrayal of the lives of people there.
It's great to see someone from the UK exposing the dangers, with people being out on the streets taking drugs...
There is always hope out there 🙏.
Good channel mate 👏
What a fabulous documentary. I follow Jeff's High On Life from the UK he's an inspiration. A real insight to such tragic lives and circumstances. I often watch the live webcams and it breaks my heart, especially Amber.
My new favourite youtuber atm. Binged the benidorm eps, and some of the UK ones. Amazing you are expanding like this.
Appreciate the support mate 🙏
I think he looks pretty trim?!
@@tobyjackman3212ahaha shut up
@@tobyjackman3212 😂
I love Jeff's channel. And yours. I'm so glad you approached Jeff to do this video ❤
He was amazing
@@KarenTurner-ti4jq sorry I don’t know Amber, you’d have to ask Jeff
@WendallExplores She is almost the anti hero of Kensington.
I live here in Philly man and this is something that affected every single family in the city,,Kensington had taken more friends than I can list,,watching this brings tears to my eyes because it’s become normal and it shouldn’t
Great job wendall! These poor souls! All I see is broken children in adult bodies. May god help them all 🙏🏼
Great Video glad you did it with Jeff he's definitely the right guy you want showing you around
wow you're on fire bro, more great content, well done
Genuinely refreshing to have a Bald and Bankrupt type figure that isn't a sex tourist, or exploiting his enviroment for clicks, you have actual insight to give no matter the location you visit, never change Wendall
0% sex tourist guarantee 🤣🤣
Oh my, wendall, I can’t believe that you are here in the USA, I watch all the videos from the UK, when you go to the pubs, and Explora little towns, also when you went to Spain, and you are with Jeff he’s my favorite TH-camr, you just made my day, welcome to the US, BTW we also have pubs here ha ha ha, Take care. God bless.
Dude! This was a BRILLIANT peice of investigative journalism. The way you connected with the subject and it's participants/captives shows you have potential to take this FAR! Already subscribed. Can't praise this new direction enough.
Appreciate the kind comment mate
The most shocking clip for me was children walking down the street. Breaks my heart that they're desensitised to seeing adults in catatonic states in large numbers like that! I appreciate the gritty & insightful content Wendall.
It shocked me too
Thank you again Wendall, great video. I subscribed straight away to Jeff's channel. Keep up the good work my friend.
Appreciate you supporting Jeff 🙏
Where they used to call drugs / addiction a disease, now the drugs are a literal disease, it ain't right, and you did get the right guy to tell the tale there 👌🏻 Get well soon Philly ✌🏻❤️🙏🏻
The indonesian/SG, asia approach would fix it by removing drug dealers directly; while this would be the authoritarian conservative approach ... Hence no more drugs lol.. As they have 0% drug addicts. That lady says it herself.. 2 choices.. JAIL or rehab.. JAIL would actually be 100% more effective, as they wouldn't have access to outside drugs.. its why they NEVER choose jail., they are only enabling their behavior.
Zero addicts in Indonesia?
You smoking crack? You are well off the mark. As for zero drugs in jail, there are more drugs in prisons than on the streets. Please do some homework as you spouting absolute rubbish.
I live in Philly I’m born and raised…gotta say I appreciate the light your bringing toward this I have kids and hate some areas and what it stands for so thanks for bringing some attention to this every little bit helps!
This is real journalism...Doing Great Work, keep it up 👍
I love that you and Jeff treated the people with respect. Actually, the people that you interviewed were all very articulate and gave a real insight into the problems in the area. I wish them well.
I met some troubled yet wonderful people in Kensington
Just finished watching this mate absolutely touched my heart watching this my mom was addicted to drugs and alcohol and ultimately it ended up in her being murdered in middlesbrough uk. Drugs destroy lives family and friends its so hard to see people living like this. My brother and sister both from the same mom are both hooked on drugs also! If i wasnt so bad with my anxiety and mental health helping these people on the streets and people with addiction would be my dream to help them all!! Top work ❤
Sorry to hear of all the pain and suffering you’ve been through
Thanks mate keep doing what your doing! Love it your a credit to the platform ❤@WendallExplores
Unfortunately I can name pretty much everywhere u stopped to see my neighborhood. I live diagnol behind the library on Clearfield. My 3 kids all had to cross Kensington just to go to school and I’m proud to say that I beat my fight with percocets about 2 or 3 yrs ago. I had to raise my kids inside the house aside from them walking to school. My 2 oldest have graduated highschool. My youngest still has to walk zigzagging to not be near the dealers nor the junkies. Thankfully I have taught my kids about what to do and what not to do. It really sucks being a resident out here. It’s just an absolute hott mess. Thank you for coming out here to see the struggle out here. It’s 💯 real and not just only Kensington. U can go to center city and see junkies out there and the rats. Ewe they are like up here the size of cats. Again thank u for treating the drug addicts with the upmost respect. In the end it’s up to our higher power to judge them. That’s just my belief. I treat humans with respect until it’s not reciprocated then u must deal with my hulk counterpart 😂😂❤❤❤😊😊 just wanted to make someone smile. @joe I’m glad u got out before it got this nasty. Everyone stay blessed and safe anywhere u go. 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
Best video yet, keep up the great work!
Appreciate that 🙏
Wendall I'm glad you come here to the USA to film with Jeff I'm glad I find you both on TH-cam.
God loves you Wendall be safe.🙏🏿
Love this!!! Jeff’s a great human being!
Really enjoy your content mate. Where others might dress up their content and mask some things that are unpleasant, your stuff is raw and pure. Raw and pure insights into real-world places and real-world people. You're personable and don't come across as someone trying to get something out of the people you interview. It's obvious you want to give a platform to those who might never have had the opportunity to share their story before and the sincerity of the content shows.
Very underrated channel, keep it up!
Appreciate the kind words 🙏
Fantastic video mate, extremely humbling and eye opening.
Thank you so much to you and Jeff for treating the people in this video with so much respect and sensitivity. None of us are immune from their situation, it only takes one significant life event, a missed pay check or two to potentially find yourself in the same situation. I have the upmost compassion for them and I wish that for once, politicians would show real commitment to change and practice what they preach.
Subscribed to Jeff's channel,good man. Heart breaking video to watch,I will pray for those souls to find peace. God bless Bon Jovi,what a great way to give back,surprised that was never a story on the news. Oh sorry,i forgot mainstream is nothing but negative. Well done Wendall,great work.
So glad I just happened upon your channel. Thank you for your compassion and kindness when talking to everyone, from all walks of life. ❤ from Canada
I promise you looking at this video they cleaned Kensington right up. Just about 3 months ago you would not be able to walk there. It was an Absolute Circus of Filth. Injecting themselves zombies everywhere..
Little different then you found in Croydon and Slough 😅
Great video Man.
I wonder if the locals have become desensitised to seeing people openly in such states. It says a lot about the police, government and their attitudes to treatment for addiction and maybe metal illness too, although i don't claim to know much about American politics but it makes you wonder! Massive respect Wendall for making this video.. and all your videos! Also, that manscaped add...wendalls wondefull walnuts 🤣
I’m sure they have become desensitised to a degree yes
Sadly its like a fire that spreads out of control. The small changes you see like the housing and the resources over and over. It may not be the first time but maybe the next day a relative comes down for some of those resources or a friend or classmate or the person in need of help. Slowly change can be made. Just moving the tents will not help but the resources will. I have seen it in some bad sections of Upperstate New York.
Of course they have. Visited the west coast with my mom and sister and we were shocked not only by the drugs and homelesness but how everyone else living there acted like it was a normal.
Oli, I’m made up for you my man, congrats with the Chanel, seems like a giant leap with this video, keep it up brother 👌🏻
Cheers Mick
The girl at 15:14 is my best friend. I've been looking for her for over a month. Im sober, she wasn't ready for help. This hurt so bad.
What! All the way to America, mr worldwide. Keep smashing it mate 👊🏻
Your should have seen Clearfield last summer. Was even wilder....
Jeff's sub here. I so enjoy your content!
Appreciate you coming over 🙏
5 years ago 10 years ago even 20 was wilder
Im from Manchester here in the UK and have visited Philadelphia on quite a few occasions as my uncle on my dads side moved to Pennslyvania in his early 20s, first to Pittsburgh, which definitely has its issues, and then over to Philadelphia. Hes drove us through the North Side of Philly to the suburb on the edge of the city where he lives on many occasions, and the first time he did so I was absolutely shocked at the poverty and deprivation. Kensington is not a place you
want to be after dark as is most of Inner City Philadelphia especially on the North Side of the City.
I’m from London but got a train from NYC to Philadelphia a few years ago.
I didn’t go to those tougher areas but I could tell just from what I saw from the train (which went through the north side of the city).
Between 2020 and 2023, the city saw 500-550 murders each year (and obviously many more non-fatal shootings), which is more or the around the same as the entirety of the UK (which has 65 million more people).
Good news is that those numbers now seem to be on the decline (and quite dramatically this year, as with other cities like Baltimore).
It’s worth noting that the vast majority of victims are young men/teens involved in gangs etc, rather than the drug users you see in this video.
@@eastender_So is it worse than South Manchester and Salford?
@@whitemountainapache3297
Philly? I would say significantly, yes.
@@whitemountainapache3297way worse American cities are way worse
Thanks Wendell , welcome to the US , Jeff’s a great friend of mine and he has been such a great influence on many people! Thanks for sharing your experience with us ,and Jeff , I think the world of you my dear friend! I Love you XOXO ❤️❤️❤️🥰😘✌🏼💫🙏🌟💞
Wendall, I was a bit worried at the start of the video as I thought you were going to be walking there alone, you were definitely smart to have a local drive you around Kensington and North Philly especially the hoods, it isnt for the faint hearted thats for sure. Its really sad to see the trauma these people are going through and the social problems this city has because it is a great city with a lot of culture, architecture and a lot of great people.
Wow Wendall😢big respect to you for this vlog. I found it very moving and distressing. It looked bloody aweful mate. You are a much braver man than me. Your care, concern and compassion for people was clearly palpable. I was emotionally worn out by the end of the video, it was so so intense. Thankyou for dealing with this material so sensitively and professionally. ❤ ps say hi to Jeff top bloke too.👍
Thanks for watching Kev, it was a very hard hitting experience. Jeff is awesome 👌
You're good at asking simple but powerful questions - a bit like Louis Theroux - and your empathy shows
I try my best, thank you 🙏
I agree, I like a lot of similar TH-camrs but Wendall seems a cut above. Louis actually did Kensington back in 2011 I think, it was bad then but nothing like now
Wow was not expecting an upload of this magnitude! Thank you for showing us your experience in Kensington. It really is a living hell there, you picked a good guide to get you safely through. I don't know what the solution is, but these people need to get out somehow!
Appreciate the comment, Jeff was an excellent guide
I've not seen ur page until now, it's cool that Jeff is showing you around I can only imagine what that is like in person because I've only seen it through the television. I'm in florida, Clearwater area, I've always wanted to visit London since I was a teenager into punk music lol. Hopefully someday. It was great to get a lesson in "Wendells Walnuts"😂 and then see the craziness that is Kensington. That 1st girl that u spoke with was heartbreaking. I JUST saw an interview w Joy recently, i cannot fathom having all the certificates & degrees that she has then working as an RN all while fighting that addiction. I went thru being prescribed pain meds...A TON of them for 14 years. Laws started changing and i went on Methadone. Its tough to say the least. Hope ur having a nice stay here in the 🇺🇸 USA! ♡✌🏼
Thanks for watching, I’ve been to Clearwater it’s nice down that way 🏝️
That's awesome you've been to Clearwater! It's soo different now, like most everything it's just changed A LOT - the beach is mostly big hotels. BUT yes, the beach is beautiful & with all the tourism, it's necessary I guess. I subbed btw, look fwd to watching more! Thanks for the reply & enjoy the rest of ur stay😊 ♡ ✌🏼
"Your video powerfully highlights the serious issue of drug addiction in many American communities. Thank you for bringing awareness."
That place is extremely scary. I've been there. It's a whole different experience in person. You will see how messed up it really is. I slipped into a psychotic depression and wanted to off myself, I went here and found the stuff within 5 minutes. I eventually wanted to live again and got off of it. Don't do it. Don't do it. Don't do it. It's the most disgusting stuff ever. How quick it turned me into something I wasn't was extremely scary. It sucked out my soul. That was only 2 months too.
Jeff is the kindest guy! Great video ❤❤
Hats off to you Wendall going international, you really are pushing the boundary’s of your channel and producing some truely great content.
Thanks for this. Everybody needs to watch it.
Please share 🙏
Thank for coming down here with respect and humanity for the lost cuz at the end of the day there human just like u and I and lot of out of towners come down here and try to exploit them and there stories for the own monetary gains thank you for blurring out the sadness aswell
I have be following the stuggle for years there,i have seen the worst wounds,skin being eaten alive.most woman dates to feed the habbit and many woman just vanish or are found dead,the police are so used to it now that its no big deal to them,heart breaking.
Thanks for handling this with such sensitivity ❤
Whats awful is the clear lack of mental health support in the US. Complete disregard for people. Sadly the UK is going the same way. I know it won't solve all problems but theres a lot to be said for it.
So true prevention is better than cure , maybe if these people had a place where they could get help for issues through childhood etc there lives could be very different .
This is what extremist politics does to a country. I couldn't believe how far the US had fallen when I was there last year. I genuinely never want to go back there!
Bidenomics
@@mike-A299were did you visit. Thousands of cities in the usa and most are doing better then say west coast towns, philli, new york ect..
For God's sake, mate, stay safe. You are right. You are in a totally different place. Really amazing video, both of you. Filmed with respect and sensitivity. Very well done. Just be safe in the States. Things can go sideways really fast. I have so much respect for you having the guts to do this!
Appreciate your support 🙏
@WendallExplores I always think "there, but for the grace of God, go I" when I see this sort of video. I spent 10 years in Seattle, over half of that addicted to H. It's a crazy hard road, but one can get through it. I really respect how you humanize the people with a sickness and living in a very bad situation. Huge respect to you and Jeff for what you are doing! 🙏
@@smoore6461 congratulations on your recovery mate. Keep fighting ✊
Glad that your channel popped up in my feed. I have been following Jeff’s work for a while.
Great advice and compassion for that young lady.
It was interesting to see how someone from another country is viewing our city.
I’m 67, born & raised in Philly. I walked those streets as my family goes back over 100 years in Kensington & Fishtown & it’s home.
The drugs really started in earnest by the early 1970’s. We lost many factories in the area as well. City government has been a mess for decades. All these things have contributed to the things you now see.
At our heart, we are good people. We love to talk to outsiders.
Hopefully things might change.
The people in Philly were very welcoming & friendly for the most part. I visited because I see a lot of similarities between Philly & my original home the midlands UK. De-industrialisation has caused many issues for the working classes.
I worked in N Philly about a yr ago. Those are some tough kids, tough neighborhoods.
I'm a teacher. I've taught k to 12th grade kids, worked in upscale PA neighborhoods but also NE Philly, you really feel for these kids who have to raise themselves. Real!
@@debraweik3837 apprantly most of them have no parents due to them being in prison or on drugs and they are either raised by their grandparents or put in care
This video is huge for this channel, I really hope he hits that 100k. This guy puts some serious effort into making these informative videos.
I appreciate that comment mate, thank you very much
You got lucky...it looks pretty cleaned up. I've seen it way worse. Great vid...Thanks.
Wow that's cleaned up then that makes it so so sad.
I fully admire how respectful you were/are. You are a genuine good hearted human ❤️
I watch the Live webcams of Kensington Street all the time (USA Live TV) and saw a live shooting live on TH-cam on Mon 1:30am, it was surreal...
A year ago it was much worse. Here from Jeffs channel and subbed
Wow Wendall, your Cornwall Amazon days seem a long way away from this video. This was powerful and a must watch. Well done for doing it. Desperate people, in a desperate place and it all seems to be allowed to happen. Just awful. Good work sir!
The first 5 seconds of this vid - the thing that hits me is the sunshine and blue skies. THAT in itself tells me that no way is any place in the USA worse than the UK. You have all the deprivation, crime, addiction, stabbings and even shootings in the UK now but it’s dark, cold, wet and windy 8months of the year in Britain. Even the weather is trying to kill you in the UK!
I’ve been through here in winter and it’s pretty grim weather
You are full of bull. There are many places in the US with bad weather. Then the heat in the US in many states is absolutely horrible. 100f in summer for months. I will take British weather over that any day. It's only dark for four months and only annoyingly for two months plus we get sunset at 10 30pm mid summer which is great.
You’re delusional, and in no way, shape or form do I condone violence, but the pretty weather here has nothing to do with how gut-wrenching crimes can be. The US has a few cities with per capita crime rates higher than places in Mexico (New Orleans and Baltimore)
That's funny! I watch a lot of content from the UK and it seems like the weather there makes everything worse. I live in Seattle where we have a similar climate to parts of the UK. However, it just seems more unaccommodating and grim. I feel a real kinship to the British people. More than any other Europeans. I would love to visit but I don't think I could live there.
Mate it's literally below freezing most days in Philly winters 😂
I've followed the chaos at Kensington for a few years now, that was a very good video to watch, it's good people are getting more help if they want it 💓
Im from the UK . I've just subbed to Jeffs channel.
Im truly hoping those drugs don't make their way over here, but Im sure they will.
Theres loads of people addicted to substances here where I live, but it's a different league entirely.
I truly hope they all get the help they deserve and find their way out of hell on earth.
Is already in UK. But I guess Europe has better mental health than Americans and don’t turn to drugs.
@@MbisonBalrogthere's only very small amounts of these drugs in the UK. Fentanyl is only here in bits n pieces, nothing major. These hoods in usa now have different mix of drugs on the street that are nowhere near coming to the UK. The main readon is be aise heroin is still relatively easy to get. On the American streets the heroin got harder to find and so the man made alternatives were created instead and look at the mess that created. The moral of the story is dont stop the heroin and then you won't get these far more damaging substances.
@@MbisonBalrog That's not true.
@@MbisonBalrog not the way it works
@@EbbandFlow1234 fentanyl definitely in Europe. So is tranq etc etc.
Wendell, you were very lucky to get Jeff. He’s an amazing person and a friend.
Bit different from Kensington in London
Very
😂😂😂
Damn i was gonna talk shit on this video then i watched it and it was actually pretty deep and you treated everyone pretty damn well
Quality content as always.
I didn't think anywhere could make Slough look pleasant. Those poor people. Thanks for opening our eyes to this.
That place is off the scale.
This is it after a big clean up. Look up AML FILMS, look at how it was few years, few months back.
I think you did a great job showing how it all is there. Respectful by not showing the people themselves too much, but your reaction really tells the story
You should do a video in Benidorm and interview the local Spaniards, asking their opinions on how Brits have ruined their beautiful seaside town.
I’d love to, but I don’t speak Spanish
@@WendallExplores i am sure their body language will convey how upset they are.