Main image via The Hollywood Reporter + Bloody Disgusting
If you grew up being scared of dolls coming to life, you’ve probably had a bad experience or were traumatised by Chucky from Child’s Play.
Unfortunately, one of the people who were responsible for bringing Chucky to life, has passed away.
via GIPHY
According to reports, John Lafia who co-wrote the 1988 Child’s Play and also col-wrote and directed Child’s Play 2 passed away recently in Los Angeles at the age of 63.
John, who collaborated with Tom Holland and Don Mancini on the iconic horror movie’s screenplay, was credited for coming up with the name “Chucky” and contributed to his famous line, “Hi, I’m Chucky, wanna play?”
Image via The Hollywood Reporter
The screenwriter leaves behind his two children Tess and Kane, and ex-wife Beverly.
John’s family released a statement on his death through Child’s Play creator and screenwriter.
“We’re devastated to hear of the passing of our friend John Lafia,” the statement reads. “He was a crucial part of the Chucky family from the very beginning. He co-wrote the original Child’s Play script along with director Tom Holland and myself, and John directed Child’s Play 2, - the consensus favourite film among ‘Chucky’ fans.”
“John was an incredibly generous artist,” the statement continues. “He let me tag along with him to every meeting, and shadow him on set; he taught me more about filmmaking during the production of that movie than several semesters in film school. John was also one of the most naturally curious and constantly creative people I ever met, someone who was always taking pictures, and jotting down ideas.”
Image via News Break
According to the Los Angeles County Coroner’s office, the screenwriter’s cause of death was suicide.
In addition to Child’s Play, John also worked on projects like Man’s Best Friend, Babylon 5, The Dead Zone, and Firestorm: Last Stand at Yellowstone.
RIP John Lafia. Thank you for bringing our nightmares to life. Our thoughts are with his loved ones.
Did you grow up watching Child’s Play? Did you love or hate Chucky?
Info via Variety