Bruce Campbell: From Horror Icon to Small-Town Police Chief
In 1981, Bruce Campbell captivated horror enthusiasts with his unforgettable portrayal of Ash Williams, the rugged demon-slaying hero in “The Evil Dead.” Directed by Sam Raimi, this unique and now-cult classic film follows a group of friends who confront malevolent forces while vacationing in a remote cabin. This role undeniably marked a pivotal moment in Campbell’s career, establishing him as a defining figure in the horror genre.
Now, at the age of 66, Campbell’s life has taken on a more tranquil rhythm reminiscent of Mayberry. Embracing his role as a grandfather, he maintains a charmingly outdated connection to technology, still using AOL Mail. Later this month, he is set to host a festive “casino-ween” gathering at an Elks Lodge in Ashland, Oregon, where he resides with his wife, Ida. When it comes to music, Campbell’s tastes are surprisingly wholesome: “way more Lawrence Welk than you might imagine,” he quipped.
In many ways, his latest role in the Peacock series “Hysteria!,” which premiered recently, mirrors this gentler chapter in his life. Portraying the affable and down-to-earth police chief Dandridge, Campbell finds himself in a sleepy suburb of Michigan during the 1980s, where the motto is “boring is beautiful.” However, true to his horror roots, tranquility is soon disrupted as local religious zealots accuse a high school heavy metal band of summoning Satan, leading to a series of sinister events. In this narrative, the devil rarely waits for an invitation.
“Hysteria!” is a supernatural horror-comedy, yet it draws inspiration from a deeply unsettling period in American history: the infamous satanic panic. During this time, a wave of baseless accusations regarding cults engaging in ritualistic child abuse swept across the nation, fueled by claims from certain religious conservatives who linked these horrific acts to satanic messages in popular culture.
In “Hysteria!,” Campbell’s character, the humble police chief, grapples with the overwhelming fears surrounding Satan that grip his town. As the narrative unfolds, viewers are treated to a blend of humor and horror, highlighting societal fears that echo contemporary issues.
This series, while set in the 1980s, resonates profoundly with today’s audience. It is part of a growing trend in media that revisits the satanic panic, alongside notable works such as the documentary “Satan Wants You,” the novel “Rainbow Black,” and the latest season of “Stranger Things.” These explorations reflect a resurgence of culture wars, misinformation, and conspiracy theories that continue to shape our societal landscape.