Michael Villella has passed away at the age of 84. The actor was famously known for playing Russ Thorn in the cult classic The Slumber Party Massacre (1982).
The announcement of his death came through his Facebook page on November 23, 2024. The post read, “Michael Pasquale Villella has left this world, may he rest in peace. May God welcome Michael with open arms and bring him into heaven.”
According to a report in TMZ, his daughter, Chloe Villella confirmed the news stating that her dad passed away due to multiple organ failure after a month in the hospital. Michael is survived by his daughter and his ex-wife.
How Michael Villella rose to fame as a serial killer?
Michael Pasquale Villella debuted in the Hollywood industry as the drill-wielding killer in the 1982 horror film, The Slumber Party Massacre which established him as a notable figure. The film received mixed reviews. It also starred Michelle Michaels and Robin Stille.
The film which was intended to be a parody went on to become a horror film and inspired some sequels and spinoffs like the Sorority House Massacre trilogy and the Cheerleader Massacre. Villella played a minor role in the sequel of Sorority House Massacre and also appeared in the 2010 documentary Sleepless Nights: Revisiting the Slumber Party Massacres.
Villella’s cult performance in The Slumber Party Massacre left a lasting mark on horror film enthusiasts across the world. It eventually made him the ‘hero’ of the slasher films. According to a report in the Independent, the film earned $3.6 million at the box office, surpassing an estimated budget of just $220,000.
How are fans remembering the legendary actor?
Many fans took to X (formerly Twitter) to pay their tributes to Michale Villella. They remembered their favourite actor as "one of the scariest slashers" of all time.
“Omg this breaks my heart I didn’t even know he died he was such an amazing actor he will be missed.” A fan wrote.
“Russ Thorn is no doubt one of the scariest slashers who doesn't even need a mask or getup, and that's thanks to Michael's awesomely disturbing portrayal of him. RIP.” Another fan mentioned.
“RIP Michael Villella. The man who played Russ Thorn in the classic 80's slasher, THE SLUMBER PARTY MASSACRE has passed away. Few horror villains could rock the denim like he did and make lines like "It takes a lot of love for a person to...do this" sound creepy as all get out.” One more tweeted.
“Rest in peace to actor Michael Villella. The Slumber Party Massacre Is hands down one of my favorite slasher films of all time! Thank you for the good times and memories you’ll be missed.” Someone else commented.
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Michael Villella’s commendable performances have resonated with fans over the years. His legacy in horror cinema plays a significant role in the film industry.
In addition to his legendary role, Villella appeared in Love Letters (1983), Gotham(1988), Wild Orchid (1989) and Wild Orchid II: Two Shades of Blue (1991). He also made a few television appearances in Amazing Stories and Getting Away With Murder.
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