Rock music is a staple for horror movie soundtracks – but what about the rock stars? Over the years, several legendary musicians have stepped into the world of horror cinema as actors, bringing their unique personas and talents to the genre.
And, sure, many rockers and their bands have appeared in horror films as themselves — like Radio Werewolf in Mortuary Academy (1988), KISS in KISS Meets the Phantom of the Park (1978), The Offspring in Idle Hands (1999), and Foo Fighters in Studio 666 (2021) — but we’d like to talk about the ones who went FULLY into acting and played characters in the genre!
Let’s explore six iconic rock stars who made memorable appearances in horror films.
Alice Cooper
Rock legend Alice Cooper is known for his theatrical performances and iconic music. If you’ve seen Scream (1996), then you’ve heard Alice Cooper’s “School’s Out.”
Alice Cooper has frequently ventured into the world of acting, particularly in horror films. If we were to mention every time he appears as himself, this entry would be the length of a full article (and we still have five more rockers to talk about!). One of his notable character roles is his starring role as Vince Raven in Monster Dog (1984), where he plays a rock star returning to his hometown, only to encounter a series of gruesome murders. Cooper’s presence adds a sinister edge to the film’s atmosphere.
He’s also had significant cameos as a spooky homeless dude in Prince of Darkness (1987) and as Freddy Kreuger’s abusive father in Freddy’s Dead: The Final Nightmare (1991). Alice Cooper’s theatrical stage presence has translated well to film time and time again, and this rock star continues to showcase his versatility as both a musician and an actor within the horror genre.
Jon Bon Jovi
Jon Bon Jovi, the frontman of the iconic band Bon Jovi, has been a household name in the rock music scene since “Runaway” hit radio airwaves in 1983. (Side Note: “Runaway” was featured prominently in Netflix’s horror series Stranger Things!).
Beyond his musical achievements, Bon Jovi has dabbled in acting, including the lead role of Derek Bliss in Vampires: Los Muertos (2002), where he plays a vampire hunter in a world overrun by bloodsuckers.
Bon Jovi also appeared, alongside Supernatural‘s Jared Padalecki, in Cry Wolf (2005), a horror film centered around a high school murder mystery. His performances in these films demonstrate his ability and willingness to embrace darker, more intense roles on the big screen.
Ozzy Osbourne
Ozzy Osbourne, often referred to as the “Prince of Darkness” in the music world, is the lead vocalist for Black Sabbath and is a certified rock icon with a penchant for the macabre.
Like Alice Cooper, Ozzy Osbourne’s involvement in horror films is primarily music-based via the soundtracks or appearing as himself. That said, one of Osbourne’s most notable film roles is in the horror comedy Trick or Treat (1986), where he plays a preacher warning against the dangers of heavy metal music.
Osbourne’s appearance in Trick or Treat is not only a chance to see Ozzy – normally decked out in eyeliner and leathers – looking preppy, it also highlights how he’s a good sport about criticism and doesn’t take the haters too seriously. His presence in the film is a knowing wink to metal fans, and adds a touch of rock ‘n’ roll rebellion to movie.
David Bowie
David Bowie, although not primarily known for horror roles, made notable contributions to fantasy and surreal cinema that intersect with horror elements. Most famously, Bowie starred as Jareth the Goblin King in the fantastical Labyrinth (1986), directed by Jim Henson — a great gateway into horror-fantasy for younger viewers.
Additionally, David Bowie’s role as a vampire in The Hunger (1983), a film blending vampire mythology with a stylish and erotic narrative, aligns with certain horror aesthetics. As does the psychological thriller The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976), where Bowie played the lead role of an extraterrestrial being stranded on Earth. He was also Phillip Jefferies in David Lynch’s Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me.
David Bowie’s contributions to film span various genres, and while his involvement in traditional horror films may be limited, his work in fantasy, sci-fi, and thrillers has left a lasting impact on cinema.
Dee Snider
Dee Snider, the frontman of Twisted Sister, made a memorable leap into horror with Strangeland (1998). Snider not only acted in the film but also wrote the screenplay, crafting a story about a sadistic internet predator terrorizing a small town.
Snider’s involvement in Strangeland exhibits his creativity beyond music and his willingness to explore dark and unsettling themes within the horror genre. His performance adds an eerie intensity to the film’s narrative, making it a cult favorite among horror enthusiasts.
Rob Zombie
Rob Zombie, known for his music as well as his contributions to horror cinema as a director, writer, and occasional actor, has left a significant mark on the genre. In addition to directing films like House of 1000 Corpses (2003) and The Devil’s Rejects (2005), Zombie has appeared in various roles in his own movies.
For instance, in House of 1000 Corpses, Zombie played Dr. Wolfenstein’s laboratory assistant, tying his acting role to the film’s horror themes. He’s also had several voice acting character roles in TV and film, including playing Dr. Karl in Slither (2007).
While primarily known for his work behind the camera, Rob Zombie’s occasional forays into acting within his films add a personal touch to his creations, blending his musical and cinematic talents seamlessly.
Can You Think of Any More Rock Stars Who Have Acted In Horror Films?
These legendary rock stars have not only conquered the music world but also left their mark on horror cinema with their memorable character performances. From Alice Cooper’s eerie presence to Jon Bon Jovi’s vampire-hunting escapades, these musicians have shown that the stage of horror is as captivating as the stage of rock ‘n’ roll. Their contributions have enriched the genre and provided fans with unique and unforgettable experiences on screen.
Can YOU think of any other musicians who have been bitten by the acting bug and made the crossover into our favorite genre? Let us know in the comments!
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