Since A Nightmare on Elm Street premiered in 1984, the character of Freddy Krueger has become one of the most iconic horror movie villains of all time. The character was created by horror maestro Wes Craven and is portrayed by actor Robert Englund.
Englund first appeared as Freddy Krueger in the original Nightmare on Elm Street film, and has since reprised the role in the seven sequels and various spin-offs. But what do we know about the actor behind the nightmarish visage?
Who Is Robert Englund?
Robert Englund is an American actor most known for his role as Freddy Krueger in the A Nightmare on Elm Street franchise. He was born in Glendale, California in 1947 and is of Swedish, English and German descent. Englund first gained fame in the late 1970s when he began appearing in various horror films.
In addition to playing Freddy Krueger, Englund has also starred in films such as V, The Phantom of the Opera, Urban Legend and Wishmaster. He also appeared in the cult classic TV show V: The Series and the TV series Freddy's Nightmares.
How Did Robert Englund Get Cast As Freddy Krueger?
Englund was cast as Freddy Krueger in 1984 after director Wes Craven saw him in a production of the play Godspell. Craven was impressed with Englund's performance in the play, and felt he was perfect for the role. Englund's strong performance in the audition sealed the deal, and he was cast as Freddy Krueger.
Englund was immediately taken with the character of Freddy Krueger, and worked with Craven to develop the iconic look of the character. He suggested that Freddy wear a hat and a glove made of razor blades, which Craven thought was a brilliant idea. Englund also suggested that Freddy have a burned, disfigured face and body, a look that Craven felt fit the character perfectly.
What Is Robert Englund's Performance As Freddy Krueger Like?
Robert Englund's performance as Freddy Krueger is one of the most iconic performances in horror movie history. He is able to perfectly portray the character's menacing yet comedic nature. His delivery of the character's one-liners is impeccable, and he is able to perfectly capture the character's sly sarcasm and dark wit.
Englund's performance is so iconic that he has been asked to reprise the role numerous times, most recently in the 2010 remake of A Nightmare on Elm Street. Despite being in his 60s, Englund has managed to keep the character of Freddy Krueger alive and relevant with his stellar performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Played Freddy Krueger?
The character of Freddy Krueger was portrayed by actor Robert Englund in the A Nightmare on Elm Street franchise.
How Did Robert Englund Get Cast As Freddy Krueger?
Englund was cast as Freddy Krueger in 1984 after director Wes Craven saw him in a production of the play Godspell. Craven was impressed with Englund's performance in the play, and felt he was perfect for the role.
What Is Robert Englund's Performance As Freddy Krueger Like?
Robert Englund's performance as Freddy Krueger is one of the most iconic performances in horror movie history. He is able to perfectly portray the character's menacing yet comedic nature.
Was Robert Englund In The 2010 Remake of A Nightmare On Elm Street?
Yes, Robert Englund reprised his role as Freddy Krueger in the 2010 remake of A Nightmare on Elm Street.
Did Robert Englund Suggest The Look Of Freddy Krueger?
Yes, Robert Englund suggested that Freddy wear a hat and a glove made of razor blades, as well as having a burned, disfigured face and body.
What Other Films Has Robert Englund Appeared In?
In addition to playing Freddy Krueger, Englund has also starred in films such as V, The Phantom of the Opera, Urban Legend and Wishmaster. He also appeared in the cult classic TV show V: The Series and the TV series Freddy's Nightmares.
How Old Was Robert Englund When He First Appeared As Freddy Krueger?
Robert Englund was 37 years old when he first appeared as Freddy Krueger in the original Nightmare on Elm Street film.
What Is Robert Englund's Nationality?
Robert Englund is an American actor and is of Swedish, English and German descent.
Did Robert Englund Appear In Any Of The Sequels To A Nightmare On Elm Street?
Yes, Robert Englund has reprised the role of Freddy Krueger in the seven sequels and various spin-offs.
What Is The Most Iconic Line Said By Freddy Krueger?
The most iconic line said by Freddy Krueger is "Welcome to my world, bitch!".
Did Robert Englund Star In Any Other Horror Movies?
Yes, Robert Englund has starred in various horror films in addition to playing Freddy Krueger.
What Other TV Shows Has Robert Englund Appeared In?
In addition to appearing in A Nightmare On Elm Street films, Robert Englund has also appeared in the cult classic TV show V: The Series and the TV series Freddy's Nightmares.
Is Robert Englund Still Alive?
Yes, Robert Englund is still alive as of 2021.
Is Robert Englund Still Acting?
Yes, Robert Englund is still active as an actor and has appeared in various films and TV shows in recent years.