Where Are These Creepy Kids From Classic Horror Movies Today?

Lauren Novak October 29, 2:50 pm

Of all the classic horror movie villains, an evil child might be the most chilling — which might be why they’re the antagonists of some of horror’s most enduring films. From The Exorcist to Children of the Corn, these actors played some of horror’s most iconic “evil children.” But what happened after? Did they continue to scare, or turn to a different type of career? Let’s take a look at where these unforgettably frightening faces are today.

Linda Blair (66)

Regan MacNeil, The Exorcist

Everett Collection; Rebecca Sapp/Getty Images for Backstage Creations

Linda Blair became a horror legend at just 14 years old when she portrayed Regan, the possessed young girl in The Exorcist (1973). The role earned her a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination, but it also typecast her, making it difficult to move beyond horror. Blair went on to star in cult favorites like Hell Night and Savage Streets, but she also found herself in the spotlight for a highly publicized arrest involving drugs in the 1980s.

In recent years, Blair has shifted her focus toward animal activism, founding the Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation to rescue and rehabilitate animals. She continues to make occasional appearances at horror conventions, and has also been involved in other charitable activities, such as fundraising for animal shelters and participating in anti-bullying campaigns.

Harvey Spencer Stephens (54)

Damien Thorn, The Omen

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Harvey Spencer Stephens chilled audiences as Damien, the child Antichrist in The Omen (1976). The film was a massive success, and Stephens’ portrayal of the sinister Damien was a key factor in the film’s impact. Despite the success of The Omen, Stephens did not pursue a long-term acting career, making only a few small appearances afterward, including a cameo in the 2006 remake. Stephens later worked in finance and lived a relatively private life in England. However, in 2017, he made headlines when he was convicted of a road rage assault.

Patty McCormack (80)

Rhoda Penmark, The Bad Seed

Everett Collection; Bettina Strauss/Lifetime Television/Everett Collection

Patty McCormack gave a chilling performance as Rhoda, the seemingly sweet girl hiding a murderous streak in The Bad Seed (1956). Her work earned her an Academy Award nomination, and the role of Rhoda remained a defining one in her career.

McCormack successfully transitioned into an adult career, appearing on shows like The Sopranos and Grey’s Anatomy and playing a role in Rob Zombie‘s The Lords of Salem. She also returned to her roots, appearing in Lifetime’s 2018 remake of The Bad Seed.

John Franklin (66)

Isaac Chroner, Children of the Corn

CHILDREN OF THE CORN, John Franklin, 1984.

©New World Pictures/courtesy Everett Collection

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John Franklin became instantly recognizable as Isaac, the child preacher in Children of the Corn (1984). His small stature, caused by a growth hormone deficiency, gave him a youthful appearance that made the role especially eerie. Franklin reprised his role in Children of the Corn 666: Isaac’s Return in 1999 and has had steady work as both an actor and writer. He even appeared in The Addams Family (1991) as Cousin Itt. Today, Franklin occasionally makes horror convention appearances and remains a cult favorite among fans.

Courtney Gains (60)

Malachai Boardman, Children of the Corn

Everett Collection

Shout! Factory/Everett Collection

Courtney Gains played the terrifying redheaded enforcer Malachai in Children of the Corn. His menacing performance made him one of the most memorable villains of ’80s horror. Unlike many of his co-stars, Gains continued acting steadily, with memorable roles in Can’t Buy Me Love, The’ Burbs and Memphis Belle. He has also dabbled in music and continues to pop up in independent films and horror projects.

Martin Stephens (76)

David Zellaby, Village of the Damned

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Martin Stephens was Britain’s go-to child actor for unsettling performances, starring not only in Village of the Damned (1960) but also in The Innocents (1961). Stephens retired from acting in his teens, choosing instead to pursue a career in architecture. He has lived a quiet life out of the public eye, far removed from the spotlight.