**Matthew Lillard’s Journey From Halloween Scare Actor to Hollywood Star**
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Matthew Lillard, best known for his roles in movies like “Scream” and “Scooby-Doo,” recently revealed a fascinating tidbit about his early career in an exclusive interview. The 55-year-old actor shared with PEOPLE that one of his first jobs was working as a scare actor in a Halloween haunted house when he was just 19 years old. This revelation sheds light on the diverse experiences that have shaped Lillard’s trajectory in the entertainment industry.
His journey began at Knott’s Scary Farm, where he immersed himself in the world of horror by portraying characters in a haunted asylum. Lillard reminisces about those days, recalling how he would run around with ripped clothes, sending shivers down the spines of unsuspecting visitors. This unique entry into the world of performance art set the stage for his future success as an actor.
Despite his early immersion in the world of frights and scares, Lillard admits that he still finds himself getting spooked when visiting haunted houses. Even with his professional background in creating fear, he experienced a moment of genuine terror during a visit to a haunted attraction at Universal Studios. This vulnerability and honesty about his own fears add a relatable dimension to his persona as a Hollywood star.
In the interview, Lillard delves into the psychology of fear and why he believes people are drawn to experiences that elicit such strong emotions. He highlights the thrill and excitement that come from being scared, emphasising the emotional catharsis that horror genres provide for audiences. This insight offers a glimpse into Lillard’s deep understanding of the human psyche and his appreciation for the art of storytelling.
Beyond his contributions to the horror genre, Lillard is using his platform to raise awareness about important health issues. In a partnership with Exact Sciences, he stars in an ad promoting Cologuard, a noninvasive screening test for colon cancer. By leveraging his influence, Lillard hopes to encourage more people to prioritise their health and undergo essential screenings that can save lives.
Looking ahead, fans can anticipate Lillard’s return to the screen in projects like “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” and the highly anticipated “Scream 7” in 2026. His versatility as an actor and his dedication to meaningful causes demonstrate a multifaceted approach to his craft that goes beyond traditional Hollywood narratives. Matthew Lillard’s journey from a Halloween scare actor to a Hollywood stalwart serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and advocates alike.
Overall, Matthew Lillard’s candid reflections on his early career experiences offer a glimpse into the formative moments that have shaped his evolution as an actor and a storyteller. His willingness to embrace vulnerability, explore complex emotions, and engage with important societal issues underscores his commitment to his craft and his desire to make a positive impact on the world around him.