The Friday the 13th franchise is known for its iconic character, Jason Voorhees. Over the years, several actors have portrayed this infamous slasher. Let's dive into the different actors who have donned the hockey mask and brought Jason to life on the big screen.
1. Ari Lehman (Friday the 13th, 1980):
Ari Lehman was the first actor to portray Jason Voorhees in the original Friday the 13th film. Although he only appeared briefly at the end of the movie, his portrayal set the foundation for the character's future iterations.
2. Warrington Gillette and Steve Daskewisz (Friday the 13th Part 2, 1981):
In the sequel, Warrington Gillette played Jason for most of the film, while Steve Daskewisz took over for the unmasked scenes. This marked the first time Jason wore his iconic hockey mask, solidifying its association with the character.
3. Richard Brooker (Friday the 13th Part III, 1982):
Richard Brooker took on the role of Jason in the third installment of the franchise. This film introduced the iconic hockey mask as a permanent part of Jason's attire. Brooker's portrayal added a physicality and menacing presence to the character.
4. Ted White (Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter, 1984):
Ted White brought a different energy to Jason in the fourth film of the series. His portrayal emphasized Jason's brute strength and relentless pursuit of his victims. This film was initially intended to be the final chapter, hence the title.
5. Tom Morga (Friday the 13th: A New Beginning, 1985):
Tom Morga took on the role of Jason in the fifth film, which deviated from the traditional story line. While not portraying the original Jason, Morga's performance still captured the essence of the character, showcasing his signature brutality.
6. C.J. Graham (Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives, 1986):
C.J. Graham stepped into the role of Jason in the sixth film, which marked the character's return after a brief absence. Graham's portrayal added a sense of supernatural power to Jason, as he became an undead force of nature.
7. Kane Hodder (Friday the 13th Part VII: The New Blood, 1988; Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan, 1989; Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday, 1993; Jason X, 2001):
Kane Hodder is perhaps the most well-known actor to portray Jason Voorhees. He played the character in four consecutive films, bringing a unique physicality and intensity to the role. Hodder's portrayal is often praised for its menacing presence and attention to detail.
These are the main actors who have portrayed Jason Voorhees throughout the Friday the 13th franchise. Each actor has contributed their own interpretation, adding to the character's enduring legacy in the horror genre. I know I left out several of the more modern adaptations. James Stokes and Derek Mears to name a few have done some cool things with the character but the 80's, ya know.
So tell me, Who Played the Best Jason Voorhees?
Who was the best Jason?
Ari Lehman
James Stokes
Richard Brooker
Ted White
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