Victor Miller, 'Friday The 13th' Screenwriter, Dies At 86

Victor Miller, the screenwriter renowned for his work on the seminal 1980 horror film "Friday the 13th," has died at the age of 86. His son, Ian Miller, confirmed his father's passing on Monday, August 30, through an Instagram post. The cause of death was not immediately disclosed. In his tribute, Ian Miller stated, "Yesterday my father, Victor Miller, went to his final reward," reflecting on his father's nearly constant creative output.

Miller's contribution to the "Friday the 13th" franchise is significant, as he penned the original screenplay for the film that launched a long-running series of sequels, reboots, and merchandise. The film, released in 1980, introduced audiences to the terrifying Camp Crystal Lake and its infamous killer, Jason Voorhees, though Jason's mother, Pamela Voorhees, was the primary antagonist in the first installment, a detail Miller's script established. The film was directed by Sean S. Cunningham and produced by Paramount Pictures, quickly becoming a commercial success and a staple of the slasher subgenre.

Beyond "Friday the 13th," Miller had a prolific career in television and film, contributing to numerous projects throughout the latter half of the 20th century. His television credits include writing for popular series such as "The Twilight Zone" (1985 revival), "One Day at a Time," and "General Hospital." He also wrote for the soap opera "As the World Turns" and the crime drama "Matlock." His work often explored themes of suspense and the supernatural, aligning with his most famous creation. Miller's early career also saw him involved in writing for children's programming, demonstrating a diverse range of writing experience.

Miller's legacy is firmly cemented in horror cinema history. "Friday the 13th" not only spawned a franchise that has grossed hundreds of millions of dollars worldwide but also influenced countless other horror films. The character of Jason Voorhees, with his signature hockey mask, became one of the most recognizable figures in pop culture. Miller's original story provided the foundation for this enduring icon. He is survived by his son, Ian Miller, and other family members. His passing marks the end of an era for fans of classic horror cinema.