Terrifier director forced to defend himself following lead actor’s Trump criticism
Damien Leone, the director of the widely successful Terrifier horror series, has found himself embroiled in controversy after addressing comments made by his lead actor, David Howard Thornton, regarding former US president Donald Trump. The backlash comes as the franchise, known for its extreme violence, prepares for its fourth instalment.
Terrifier, which follows the gruesome exploits of serial killer Art the Clown, has cemented itself as one of the most profitable independent horror franchises in recent years. However, it has also drawn attention for its excessive gore, with reports of viewers falling ill and even a rare ban in France due to its graphic content.
The latest controversy, however, is of a political nature. Thornton, who portrays the sadistic killer, has taken to Threads to voice his criticism of Trump, accusing him of being on the brink of starting World War III and stating his refusal to remain silent. His co-star, Lauren LaVera, who plays the protagonist Sienna Shaw, has also been outspoken against Trump.
Following these comments, a wave of criticism erupted from Trump supporters, prompting Leone to issue a statement. He emphasised his commitment to keeping Terrifier apolitical, writing: “I’m all for freedom of speech and expression. That being said, Terrifier is NOT in any way, shape, or form a political franchise.”
Leone continued: “I did not get into filmmaking to become a politician or promote any political agendas or ideologies, especially through a killer clown movie. I fell in love with horror films as a form of pure entertainment, and those are the films I like to make.”
The director also pointed out that his cast and crew are composed of individuals with differing political beliefs, including both Republicans and Democrats. He reassured fans that all are welcome to enjoy Terrifier, regardless of their political affiliations. He concluded his statement by saying: “If this doesn’t sit well with any fans or cast/crew members, that is your right, and I respect it. You don’t have to buy a ticket, and you don’t have to work on these films. Thank you, and I recommend you don’t let toxic rhetoric on either side of the political spectrum deter you from being a Terrifier fan.”
Despite his attempt to quell tensions, Leone’s remarks sparked further debate among horror fans. Many questioned his decision to make such a statement, accusing him of “playing both sides.” One fan wrote: “I feel this is in response to some of the LGBTQ advocacy that DHT has been standing up for lately on his platform, which would not make this response a great look. Playing both sides right now just isn’t a good take when one side is advocating for the rights and lives of minorities and the other side is celebrating Sieg Heils and the splitting up of migrant families across the country. I love you and DHT and the whole crew, but this response will only do more damage than good and cause a rift between the Terrifier community.”
Leone swiftly replied, clarifying: “It’s definitely not since I agree with his stance on that. Who do you think hires all of our LGBTQ cast and crew members? They are loved, respected, and encouraged to work with us.”
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Another fan voiced disappointment, stating: “Damien, man, I love you. I’ve always been a huge, huge fan, and I love your work sooooo much. Love the franchise, love David, and Lauren so much… I wish this just wouldn’t have been said. We need to speak out against and condemn evil people that discriminate… A LARGE following of the Terrifier franchise are the LGBT community. I’m gay, and I would never want someone condoning treating me like I’m not worthy… sigh.”
Leone again responded, reassuring fans: “We love you back! Why would we condone that? All I’m saying is my team, who worked tirelessly to bring everyone Terrifier, is made up of both Republicans and Democrats. This franchise doesn’t promote hatred for either, as long as you’re a good person.”
While Leone’s attempts to defuse the situation have sparked further debate, the controversy highlights the increasingly blurred lines between entertainment and political discourse, particularly in an era where fans demand accountability from public figures. Whether this will have any lasting impact on Terrifier 4 remains to be seen, but for now, the franchise remains a focal point in the ongoing conversation about politics in entertainment.
