Freddy Krueger actor reveals why he won’t play iconic Nightmare on Elm Street role again

As a long-time fan who grew up with Freddy Krueger haunting my dreams, it’s bittersweet to hear that Robert Englund is hanging up his glove and saying goodbye to the role that defined a generation of horror enthusiasts. It’s been 40 years since he first donned the iconic sweater and knives for A Nightmare on Elm Street, and it feels like yesterday when I cowered in my bed, terrified by his razor-fingered visage.


In a chilling twist, the actor who embodied one of the most terrifying horror icons ever created, Robert Englund, is bidding adieu to his iconic role as Freddy Krueger. Regardless of personal feelings, this marks the end of an era that has long been associated with nightmares and fear.

At 77 years old, Englund has announced (through Bloody Disgusting) that he feels too aged to portray the dream-stalker in future films anymore. When asked if there was a chance for another Freddy performance, he responded: “No, I don’t. I genuinely don’t.

“Perhaps we could try an innovative technique like a close-up shot, but unfortunately, I can no longer portray the character. Age has caught up with me and I no longer possess the essence of the character that was once Freddy.

While Englund may not continue playing the role indefinitely, he’s open to providing his voice for a more low-key version of the slasher character. More specifically, this could be in an animated format.

Freddy Krueger actor reveals why he won’t play iconic Nightmare on Elm Street role again

He mentioned, “I might record a top-quality, animated version instead.” It would be flattering to be asked, but I’m aware that I can no longer handle fight scenes in one take from multiple angles. I just can’t move my head rapidly or perform such actions anymore. I guess you could say I’ve grown a bit older!

1984 marked Robert Englund’s first appearance as the terrifying character Freddy Krueger in A Nightmare on Elm Street. Since then, he’s reprised the role a total of seven times across various horror films and even the TV series Freddy’s Nightmares. In the 2010 remake, however, it was Jackie Earle Haley who took over the role of Krueger.

Without a doubt, even die-hard Nightmare on Elm Street enthusiasts believe that Englund has rightfully earned a break from playing this iconic character.

One X user stated, “He deserves his rest,” while another concurred, “To put it simply, given that he’s 77, it’s only fair. Those anticipating performance from him at the level of the 80s might want to adjust their expectations.

A third commented that it’s reassuring he prioritizes his health, yet his affection for the character is so strong he’s willing to provide the voiceover.

To learn about top-notch horror flicks coming in 2024 that will surely thrill you, take a look! Also, discover the most terrifying horror films available on Disney Plus and Amazon Prime.

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2024-10-13 17:18