I tried to install this plugin and got this error:
Plugin could not be activated because it triggered a fatal error.
@urryes thanks!
I think I will try create a new plugin, if possible with an “import from RootsPersona” feature.
I asked ChatGPT to analyse the latest version of Rootpersona and here is what I got:
Quick reality check on the codebase you uploaded
This code is structurally old for modern WordPress and modern PHP:
- Shortcodes-based UI ([rootsPersona…]) rather than blocks.
- Heavy custom DB layer (31 custom tables)
- PHP 8+ breakages are very likely. I can already see wide usage of each() (removed in PHP 8), plus other “old PHP era” patterns. So even if the plugin “loads”, it will be flaky on current stacks.
The last point might explain the errors @gwledford got.
I’m originally not a dev but I’m getting good at using AI for quick plugin creation, and a genealogy one is important to me (and I don’t like any of the other ones I tried). Tell me if you want to help/participate.
Hopefully the original developer will take a weekend and fix this one. It’s really got a good look and feel (I used it years ago on my ancestral page) but it’s useless with the current security risks. Thank you for trying to revitalize this one!
Likewise, I’d love to see this plugin updated or redeveloped if possible 🙏!
Plugin Author
urryes
(@urryes)
Gulford, I’m sorry, but the patched version of the plugin did have activation issues. They’ve been fixed now, and I’ve tested them on a couple of my subdomains, but you still need to be prepared for anything—you can’t test every possible combination.
I’ve given up on Ed Thompson (EdBecky) and am relying solely on myself and the AI.
Patricia BT (@patricia70) thank you for your concern. I think together we can continue developing and refining the plugin. ChatGPT is good, but AI Cursor is much better.
I don’t have much time to deal with GitHub, so here’s a direct link to the new version of the plugin: https://urryes.ru/wp-content/uploads/2026/rootspersona.zip
In this version:
- Security issues resolved
- Fatal crash issues resolved
- Improved algorithm for validating uploaded headcom files
- Fixed editing of the Bio field (previously, it was impossible to use HTML tags – they were cut off when saving, now you can).
- Experimental features (SVG generation) – not recommended for now – poorly constructed.
Please provide feedback. The new version of the plugin is currently working on my website: https://urryes.ru/
Hello all. Sorry for the lack of response. I didn’t realize this conversation was going on on the plugin site. @urryes would you still like access to the project?
Plugin Author
urryes
(@urryes)
Hello, Ed. Yes, I still want it. Your plugin is, in my opinion, the best for WordPress. It’s a shame you don’t have time for it.
Unfortunately the new version doesn’t install, either. Here is the install error message I get:
The plugin generated 1520 characters of unexpected output during activation. If you notice “headers already sent” messages, problems with syndication feeds or other issues, try deactivating or removing this plugin.
Plugin Author
urryes
(@urryes)
gwledford (@gwledford) sent me please php version, error screenshot. Here or via email [email protected]
