The Bishops

Last updated: May 22, 2025

The Bishops are the nine authoritarian figures who rule over the city of Dema in the Twenty One Pilots lore. Each Bishop governs a district and collectively enforce the ideology of Vialism.

Named Bishops & Hierarchy

• Nico (Nicholas Bourbaki): The only explicitly named Bishop. Nico is also the canonical identity of Blurryface, representing Tyler Joseph’s inner demons.

  “Nico is one of the nine bishops that govern the city of Dema.”

- Tyler Joseph

Function and Role

• Enforcers of Vialism: The Bishops maintain strict control over Dema’s citizens through manipulation and fear.
• Suppression of Rebellion: They target those who seek to escape Dema, including Clancy and the Banditos.
• Symbols of Internal Struggle: Each Bishop may represent a facet of emotional or psychological burden (though only Nico’s symbolism is confirmed).

Appearances

• Music Videos: Bishops appear dressed in ceremonial red robes in “Jumpsuit” and “Nico and the Niners.”
• Website (dmaorg.info): Several entries and visuals refer to Bishop surveillance and their grip over Dema.

Related: Dema, Vialism, Clancy, Blurryface