From Screams to 9-to-5: Five Horror Movie Stars with Surprisingly Ordinary Day Jobs
Horror movies have a way of staying with us long after the credits roll, their characters and the actors who play them often becoming iconic figures in pop culture. But what happens when the cameras stop rolling and the stage makeup comes off?
Some horror movie stars transition into what many would consider “normal” jobs, blending into the fabric of everyday life in ways that might surprise you. Here’s a look at five horror movie stars who have embraced the ordinary when they’re not scaring us on screen.
Doug Jones
Known for his incredible physicality and ability to bring to life some of the most memorable creatures in horror, Doug Jones has a resume that includes working with Guillermo del Toro and starring in “The Shape of Water.” When he’s not in front of the camera, Jones enjoys a quieter life, teaching mime and movement classes at a local community college, sharing his expertise with aspiring performers.
Robert Englund
The man behind the infamous Freddy Krueger mask in “A Nightmare on Elm Street” series, Robert Englund has become synonymous with horror. Off-screen, Englund has a passion for the arts and has been known to work as an art collector and curator for small galleries, helping new artists find their footing in the competitive art world.
Lin Shaye
Lin Shaye might be best known for her role as Elise Rainier in the “Insidious” series, but when she’s not on set, she’s a dedicated animal rights activist. Shaye spends much of her time volunteering at local animal shelters and advocating for animal welfare legislation.
Lisa and Louise Burns
The Grady twins from “The Shining” left a chilling impression on audiences, but these sisters stepped away from the limelight. They pursued careers in academia, with Lisa earning a degree in literature and Louise becoming a published microbiologist, proving that there’s life beyond those haunting corridors.
Boris Karloff
Although no longer with us, Boris Karloff’s legacy as Frankenstein’s monster is immortal. In between his acting gigs, Karloff was known to immerse himself in the world of horticulture. He was an avid gardener and even contributed to various gardening magazines, sharing his green-fingered tips with the world.
These actors remind us that the personas we see on screen are just a part of who they are. They have lives outside of the film sets, filled with passions, hobbies, and jobs that might seem surprisingly mundane compared to their on-screen escapades. It’s a testament to the diverse talents and interests that these actors possess, showing us that there’s always more to someone than meets the eye. Whether they’re teaching, advocating, studying, or gardening, these horror movie stars prove that you can find fulfillment in the most unexpected places. Who knows, the next time you’re at a local art gallery or community college, you might just be rubbing shoulders with horror royalty!
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