In the annals of horror film lore, few names resonate like that of Derek Mears. Born on April 29, 1972, in Bakersfield, California, Mears crafted an identity that would make him a mainstay in Hollywood’s scariest sectors. Before making it big, he paid his dues with minor roles and stunt work. The man’s physically imposing stature—standing tall at 6’5″—proved to be an asset, paving the way for roles that required a particular blend of size and agility. Gradually, Mears caught the eye of directors and casting agents, marking his territory as a modern horror icon. It’s worth noting here, at the end of our first section, that Derek Mears boasts a net worth of $3.5 million as of 2023, courtesy of Allfamousbirthday.
Career Highlights & Accolades
CHERRY HILL, NJ – AUGUST 18: Derek Mears attends the Monster Mania Con 2017 at NJ Crowne Plaza Hotel on August 18, 2017 in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. (Photo by Bobby Bank/Getty Images)
Mears transcended the realm of supporting characters and stunt doubles when he donned the notorious hockey mask of Jason Voorhees in the 2009 reboot of Friday the 13th. This gig not only vaulted him into stardom but also solidified his place as a household name among horror enthusiasts. While best known for roles that don’t demand much dialogue, Mears has proven to be more than just a mute antagonist. He’s diversified his portfolio with parts in blockbuster hits like Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides and the TV series Swamp Thing, adding unexpected shades to his already colorful career.
Personal Life & Highlights
BEVERLY HILLS, CA – SEPTEMBER 10: Derek Mears attends the Los Angeles premiere of ‘Lost Time’ at Writers Guild Theater on September 10, 2014 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Araya Doheny/WireImage)
Away from the screen, Mears is reputedly one of the nicest guys in Hollywood—a stark contrast to the terrifying characters he so convincingly portrays. The actor has been happily married since 2008, a committed relationship that is a testament to his different off-screen persona. Derek Mears also advocates for various charitable organizations, notably participating in events to help sick children. He may play fearsome characters on screen, but in reality, he’s a gentle giant with a big heart.
Business Ventures & Philanthropy
LOS ANGELES, CA – APRIL 06: Actors Brian Steele, Tyler Mane, Derek Mears and Kane Hodder attend Los Angeles’ Days Of The Dead Convention Day One held at Los Angeles Convention Center on April 6, 2013 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Albert L. Ortega/Getty Images)
While Mears is best known for his roles in horror flicks, he’s no one-trick pony. The actor has ventured into writing, producing, and even a bit of directing. These entrepreneurial endeavors add depth to his public persona, revealing a multi-faceted talent that transcends his imposing physical presence. In philanthropy, Mears lends his support to charities that focus on children’s health and well-being. He uses his platform and influence to contribute to society in ways that go beyond the roles he plays.
Horror cinema wouldn’t be what it is today without the Friday the 13th franchise. Created by Victor Miller and Sean S. Cunningham, the series started in 1980 with the release of the original film of the same name. Since then, it has become an essential part of pop culture and is often associated with Halloween. Above all, the Friday the 13th franchise is renowned for its inventive kills, iconic imagery, and the unstoppable nature of its antagonist. It is one of the most popular horror franchises in cinema history.
Jason Voorhees, the central character and main antagonist of the franchise, is undoubtedly one of the most iconic figures in horror cinema. He has terrified audiences for four decades and counting. The film series has churned out 12 installments and is evidently one of the most successful horror franchises of all time. Over the years, it has also become a cultural phenomenon and is a horror cinema staple.
12. Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan(1989)
The eighth installment in the franchise, Part VIII was directed by Rob Hedden. The film takes the iconic killer, Jason Voorhees, out of his usual setting and contrastingly places him in the bustling metropolitan city of New York. It provides a departure from the series’ usual campsite setting and shows a gritty portrayal of the Big Apple. Jason Takes Manhattan is also notable for its attempt to inject fresh energy into the franchise by exploring new environments. However, it does not quite achieve what it sets out to do and instead is a rather disappointing addition to the franchise. Nonetheless, it has a handful of memorable kills, though.
11. Jason X (2001)
Jason X is possibly the most over-the-top entry in the Friday the 13th franchise. The tenth installment in the series sees Jason Voorhees take a trip to space after being cryogenically frozen for 445 years. Perhaps there’s an underlying cautionary tale in there about leaving things where they’re found. After all, if the group of students who found Voorhees had left him alone, they would have stayed alive. The plot of Jason X is largely ridiculous; the film is quite enjoyable, albeit silly. Jason X is only a hard sell if too much is expected from it, so don’t have high expectations.
10. Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday (1993)
Jason Goes to Hell was initially marketed as the final installment in the Friday the 13th franchise. It is the ninth entry in the series and immediately precedes Jason’s space odyssey in Jason X. The film also departs from the traditional Friday the 13th formula, delving into more supernatural elements. This particularly added a new layer to the story of Jason Voorhees. Throughout the movie, there are intense and gory sequences as Jason’s essence possesses various characters. The end of Jason Goes to Hell hinted at a potential crossover with the A Nightmare on Elm Street series, setting the stage for Freddy vs. Jason in 2003.
9. Friday the 13th: A New Beginning (1985)
This is the fifth installment in the Friday the 13th franchise. The 1985 movie takes the story in a new direction, introducing a new protagonist and exploring the psychological aftermath of the previous films’ events. A New Beginning faced criticism upon its release due to the absence of Jason Voorhees as the central killer for most of the film. It was also criticized for its deviation from the established formula. As such, it is not the most beloved entry in the franchise. However, with other entries achieving much less favor from fans, it is also not the worst.
8. Friday The 13th Part VII: The New Blood (1988)
The New Blood adds a supernatural twist to the series by introducing Tina Shepard, a telekinetic teenager who can go up against Jason Voorhees. It stars Kane Hodder in his first appearance as Jason and Lar Park Lincoln as Shepard. When Jason reappears at Crystal Lake to resume his killing spree, Tina is the only real adversary who could possibly stop him. The movie’s climax depicts an epic showdown between Tina and Jason and is the most memorable part of the entire film. Hodder also provided motion capture footage as Jason in the video game Friday the 13th: The Game.
7. Friday The 13th Part III (1982)
The third installment in the franchise, Friday the 13th Part III, continued the story of the infamous killer from the first two movies. One of the film’s notable parts is the introduction of the hockey mask as Jason’s signature disguise. He acquired it early in this movie and completed the look that would become iconic in the subsequent films of the franchise. As in previous installments, Friday the 13th III featured creative and graphic kills, showcasing Jason’s brutality. While the film received mostly negative reviews upon its release, it has become a fan favorite. It is also widely appreciated for its contribution to the evolution of Jason Voorhees as a horror icon.
6. Freddy vs. Jason (2003)
This crossover horror film brings together two of the most iconic horror movie villains: Freddy Kreuger and Jason Voorhees. Krueger is the main antagonist of the A Nightmare on Elm Street franchise. He goes head-to-head against Jason Voorhees in this film, which is the 11th installment in the Friday the 13th franchise. Despite its low ratings, the film delivers on the promise of an epic showdown between the two horror icons. Freddy vs. Jason grossed $116.6 million at the box office. It is also the highest-grossing installment in both film franchises.
5. Friday The 13th (2009)
Released in 2009, this movie is a reboot of the legendary horror franchise. It is the 12th installment in the franchise and serves as a reimagining of the first four movies in the original Friday the 13th series. This movie condenses the story into a modern setting while retaining the essence of the original slasher formula. The stylish cinematography and special effects used in the story also do some good. However, it does not quite manage to live up to the original movies. Nonetheless, it still pulled in a considerable crowd into theaters. Like most films in the franchise, it received mostly negative reviews but was a commercial success.
4. Friday The 13th Part 2 (1981)
The second installment in the franchise, Friday the 13th Part 2, continued the original film’s legacy. It introduced new characters and expanded the lore of the infamous Camp Crystal Lake. The story picks up a few years after the events of the first film, and despite a few inconsistencies, it manages not to drop the ball. It was a successful sequel in spite of its poor critical ratings. Friday the 13th is notable for paving Jason’s prominence in subsequent films. It also establishes the camp setting as a central theme in the franchise. This helps create the horror legacy of Camp Crystal Lake.
3. Friday The 13th Part VI: Jason Lives (1986)
In Jason Lives, the franchise’s tone shifts slightly, incorporating humor and self-awareness. The film embraces its status as a slasher movie, acknowledging the cliches and stereotypes present in the genre. Despite the humor, however, it doesn’t shy away from the franchise’s trademark elements. Jason Lives is undeniably one of the most enjoyable and entertaining entries in the Friday the 13th franchise.
2. Friday The 13th: The Final Chapter (1984)
This is the fourth installment in the Friday the 13th film series. Despite its title, it evidently is not the last film in the franchise. This movie is notable for its well-executed kills, intense atmosphere, and the introduction of Tommy Jarvis. The Final Chapter is also known for its graphic violence and practical effects, showcasing the gruesome kills in vivid detail. It is often considered one of the best and most influential installments in the franchise.
1. Friday The 13th (1980)
This was the very first movie released in the franchise and is the genesis of the Friday the 13th lore. It is a classic slasher film that has become a cornerstone of the horror genre. Notably, the use of point-of-view shots from the killer’s perspective heightens the film’s sense of dread. The film’s success also lies in its ability to create a terrifying atmosphere. Moreover, the secluded camp setting adds to the overall feeling of fear, isolation, and vulnerability. The impact of Friday the 13th was immense, leading to numerous sequels, spin-offs, and a long-lasting franchise. It also established a template for slasher films and has influenced a generation of horror filmmakers.
October is the month of chills, thrills, and everything spooky. As the nights grow longer and the air turns colder, there’s no better time to dive into some of the best horror franchises that have haunted our screens for decades. Whether you’re a seasoned horror aficionado or a newbie looking for a good scare, these classic franchises are sure to deliver.
The Halloween franchise stands as a testament to the power of horror. Beginning with the iconic 1978 film, this series introduced the world to Michael Myers, a relentless killer with a haunting mask and a dark past. Over the years, the franchise has expanded to include 12 sequels, each with its unique twist on the original story. Despite the varying quality of the sequels, the Halloween series remains a must-watch for its sheer impact on the horror genre.
Freddy Krueger, with his razor-sharp glove and burnt face, is a name that sends shivers down the spine of many. The Nightmare On Elm Street franchise delves into the terrifying concept of a killer who hunts teenagers in their dreams. With its blend of psychological horror and slasher elements, this series has cemented its place in the annals of horror history.
The Friday The 13th series is synonymous with summer camp horror. Jason Voorhees, with his hockey mask and machete, has become a cultural icon. Spanning 12 films, this franchise has explored various facets of the Jason legend, from his tragic origins to his supernatural abilities. While some entries lean more towards campy fun, the series as a whole offers a thrilling ride for horror enthusiasts.
A more recent addition to the horror pantheon, The Conjuring franchise has quickly become a favorite among fans. Focusing on the real-life investigations of paranormal experts Ed and Lorraine Warren, this series blends historical events with supernatural horror. With its well-crafted stories and genuinely terrifying moments, The Conjuring has redefined modern horror.
The Scream series is a unique blend of horror and meta-commentary. Directed by the legendary Wes Craven, these films both celebrate and critique the horror genre. With its iconic Ghostface killer and a cast of memorable characters, the Scream franchise offers both scares and laughs, making it a perfect watch for October.
The Evil Dead series is a roller-coaster of horror and comedy. From its humble beginnings as a low-budget horror film to its evolution into a cult classic, this franchise has consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre. Whether you’re in the mood for pure horror or a blend of scares and laughs, the Evil Dead has something for everyone.
It revolves around the character Michael Myers, who escapes from a mental institution and goes on a killing spree.
Who is the main antagonist in A Nightmare on Elm Street?
Freddy Krueger, a killer who attacks his victims in their dreams.
How many movies are in the Friday The 13th series?
There are 12 mainline film entries.
Is The Conjuring based on real events?
Yes, it’s based on the investigations of paranormal experts Ed and Lorraine Warren.
What makes the Scream franchise unique?
It’s known for its meta-commentary on the horror genre, blending scares with self-aware humor.
How many films are in the Evil Dead franchise?
There are four main films in the series.
Dive into these classics this October and experience the best of horror cinema. Whether you’re watching alone or with friends, these franchises promise to deliver unforgettable scares. Happy haunting!
In the historic year of 1955, the world was grappling with the onset of rock & roll and post-war reconstruction. Yet, Auburn, California, saw the birth of an individual who would redefine horror for generations: Kane Hodder. Growing up, Kane exhibited a knack for performing, a trait that would eventually guide him toward the expansive universe of films and stunts. As he immersed himself in mastering the art of stunts and acting, Hodder was preparing to don roles that would make him an unforgettable figure in horror cinema. Fast forward to 2023, and Allfamousbirthday highlighted his accomplishments with a telling figure: a net worth of $1.5 million.
Career Highlights & Accolades
CHERRY HILL, NJ – MARCH 10: Kane Hodder attends the 2018 Monster Mania Con at NJ Crowne Plaza Hotel on March 10, 2018 in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. (Photo by Bobby Bank/Getty Images)
The horror genre is rife with iconic figures, but Kane Hodder stands out for his roles and the sheer intensity he brings. Stepping into the menacing shoes of Jason Voorhees in the Friday the 13th series, Hodder didn’t just wear a mask. He became the embodiment of terror. His mastery in stunts further amplified his performances. It made him a go-to figure for roles demanding physical prowess and a touch of menace. While Jason is his most recognizable avatar, Hodder’s repertoire is brimming with diverse roles, each cementing his place as a titan in the world of horror and stunts.
Personal Life & Highlights
Kane Hodder (Jason Voorhees of “Friday the 13th” series) (Photo by Albert L. Ortega/WireImage)
Off the screen, Kane Hodder’s life is a compelling mosaic of challenges, triumphs, and adventures. His journey through severe burn injuries, which he endured early in his stunt career, narrates a tale of passion. This experience shaped his perspective and made him a beacon of hope for many facing similar challenges. Friendships forged over film sets, bonds with fellow horror icons, and candid revelations about his life’s ups and downs provide a wholesome insight into the man behind the menacing roles.
Business Ventures & Philanthropy
BURBANK, CA – NOVEMBER 29: Jimmy; Anton Troy; Kane Hodder; Bear McCreary; Kristina Klebe; Joe Lynch. Lin Shaye participate in the “Chillerama” Blu-ray And DVD Signing held. At Dark Delicacies Bookstore on November 29, 2011 in Burbank, California. (Photo by Albert L. Ortega/Getty Images)
Beyond the film sets and stunt arenas, Hodder has dabbled in entrepreneurial ventures aligning with his personal brand, from horror-themed merchandise to collaborative projects within the entertainment industry. However, it’s his philanthropic spirit that truly resonates. Drawing from his personal experiences, especially his recovery from burn injuries, Hodder has actively supported and advocated for burn survivors, channeling resources and attention to their rehabilitation and well-being.
Megan Thee Stallion has made it clear, pretty much since Day 1 of her being a recognizable public figure, that she’s really into horror movies. In fact, she actually sees some of herself in one of the genre’s biggest faces (well, covered faces): Jason Voorhees of the Friday The 13th franchise.
In a new interview with CR Fashionbook, Meg was asked what famous horror villain she would be if she had to pick, and she responded, “I would be Jason, because no matter how hard my haters try to take me out, I keep coming back harder!”
She also noted of American Horror Story, “Oh my God, I love American Horror Story. I watched each episode as they came out weekly on FX. I loved the first season, Murder House. It had to be my favorite season.”
Elsewhere during the conversation, she pulled back the curtain a bit on her upcoming album, saying, “This album has been the most emotional to make. I’m finally opening up about things I’ve never publicly spoken about. I’m nervous and excited for my fans to hear this side of my personality. ”
