Sad news rocked the horror world yesterday when it was reported thatWes Cravenhadpassed awayat the age of 76. The news came as a shock to both friends and fans, as a lot of people didn’t know the belovedfilmmakerwas battling brain cancer. The director is best known for directing the 1984 horror classicA Nightmare on Elm Street, which gaveFreddy Kruegerto the world. But it was his filmScreamthat rejuvenated the waining horror genre back in the 90s, breathing new life into what some felt was a bygone era. Now, some of the stars of that original franchise starter have paid tribute to the maestro, along with news that the movie’s small screen incarnation also has something special planned for later in the week.
Neve Campbellstarred in all four Scream movies, working closely alongsideWes Cravenin creating a different kind of Scream Queen for a new generation. The pair reunited to collaborate onScream 4, which has now turned out to be the filmmaker’s final film as a director. In the movies, Sidney Prescott cheated death many times over. Now, she remembers her horror mentor for not only his ability to scare the pants off moviegoers, but also for his kindness, generosity and humor. The actress had this to say in a statement earlier today.
“We lost a great deal of magic yesterday. I’m devastated to hear of Wes’s passing. My life wouldn’t be what it is without him. I will be forever grateful for his brilliant direction, his wicked sense of humor and his consummate kindness and friendship. He has entertained us all for decades and inspired so many to follow in his path. I loved Wes dearly and will miss him always. Thank you Wes!!!”
Other stars from Scream shared their memories on various social media platforms.Courteney CoxcalledWes Cravenher friend and mentor, whileRose McGowansaid the filmmaker was one of the kindest, gentlest and smartest men she has ever known, referring to him as a king amongst directors.Jamie Kennedyeven creditedWes Cravenfor giving him his whole career. Other Scream stars that shared their memories includedJerry O’Connell,Skeet UlrichandKevin Smith, who has the distinction of being one of the few to actual directWes Cravenas an actor in a movie.
Before his untimely death,Wes Cravenwas serving as an executive producer on MTV’s newScreamseries, which has already been renewed forSeason 2. It was announced earlier today that MTV will pay tribute during Tuesday’sScream Season 1finale. The director has previously stated that, even though he does have a producer credit on the show, he had little, if anything, to do with the creation and continued success of the show. It has not yet been revealed how MTV plans to honorWes Craven. Fans can tune it at 10pm EST to see the legend celebrated.
Along with his role as executive producer on MTV’sScream, the filmmaker was developing aTV seriesbased onThe People Under the Stairs, and the comic bookDisciples. The filmmaker’s work inspired countless movies and directors who came after him. The filmmaker made his mark with his first film, 1972’sThe Last House on the Left, and continued to be a driving force in the genre ever since. The filmmaker is survived by his third wife, producer Iya Labunka, sisterCarol Buhrow, son Jonathan Craven, daughter Jessica Craven, stepdaughterNina Tarnawksyand three grandchildren. Take a look at what the stars of Scream had to say in his memory.
