Jason Voorhees is celebrating his forty-fifth birthday this year (if undying slashers can have birthdays, that is), and to celebrate, the folks at Horror Inc. have unveiled a brand new version of the character (via Adweek) who will appear in all-new projects tied to Friday the 13th.
The new design was created in part by Greg Nicotero, the special effects legend behind The Walking Dead, and is part of the launch of Jason Universe, a new multi-platform extension of the Friday the 13th franchise. It will begin with Crystal Lake, the new prequel series starring Linda Cardellini as Voorhees matriarch Pamela, which is set to premiere on Peacock. The universe is not only set to span across television, but also “new movies, gaming, immersive experiences, collectibles, and more” according to Horror Inc. CMO Sherri Conn.
“Jason has not only earned his spot within horror, but he has significantly shaped the medium itself and the ways in which audiences interact with the villains that have shaped their nightmares,” says Horror, Inc. executive vice president Robbie Barsamian. “We know fans are eager for more Jason stories and experiences. And—as we celebrate 45 years of his iconic history—we’re excited to show him off in this new era.”
It’s notable that Jason Universe is launching as the original Friday the 13th film celebrates its forty-fifth anniversary. Since 1985, the franchise featuring one of horror’s most iconic slashers has spanned twelve films, numerous novels and comics, and a now-defunct video game. There’s also been talk of rebooting the franchise for the big screen, but nothing concrete has surfaced in the last decade.
“It’s incredibly exciting to bring Jason Voorhees back into the lives of fans in such a bold and fresh way,” adds Friday the 13th LLC’s Marc Toberoff. “We’re thrilled to be working alongside Horror, Inc. on this next chapter of the franchise and Jason’s legacy, and we share their passion. Together, we’re making sure this return delivers everything longtime fans have been craving—while opening the door for an entirely new generation.”
Check out the new Jason Voorhees design for Jason Universe below:
