Jonathan Haze, beloved actor known for playing Seymour in the original ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ (1960), has passed away at 95. Explore his lasting legacy in cult cinema.
Breaking News: Hollywood Loses a Cult Classic Star
The entertainment industry mourned the loss of Jonathan Haze, whose passing was confirmed by his family through his official social media channels. Haze, born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, peacefully departed in his Los Angeles home, surrounded by loved ones. His death marks the end of an era for fans of classic horror-comedy cinema and Roger Corman’s legendary body of work.
The Legacy of Jonathan Haze in Little Shop of Horrors
Haze’s portrayal of Seymour Krelborn, the hapless flower shop worker who raises a murderous plant, became the definitive version that influenced all future adaptations. In the 1960 film, directed by Roger Corman and famously shot in just two days, Haze brought a unique combination of nervousness and charm to the role that would later inspire performers like Rick Moranis in the 1986 remake. According to film historian Leonard Maltin, “Jonathan Haze’s performance as Seymour set the template for what would become one of horror-comedy’s most enduring characters.” The original film, made on a budget of merely $30,000, went on to become a cultural phenomenon, spawning an off-Broadway musical and multiple adaptations.
Career Highlights and Contributions to Cinema
Beyond his famous role as Seymour, Haze maintained a productive working relationship with Roger Corman throughout the 1950s and 1960s. His filmography includes notable appearances in:
- “Apache Woman” (1955)
- “Swamp Women” (1956)
- “Not of This Earth” (1957)
- “Viking Women and the Sea Serpent” (1957)
Haze’s versatility as an actor allowed him to transition seamlessly between horror, comedy, and drama, though he remained most celebrated for his work in genre films. His collaboration with Corman helped establish the foundation for independent filmmaking in Hollywood.
The Cultural Impact of Little Shop of Horrors
The original “Little Shop of Horrors” has left an indelible mark on popular culture. What began as a low-budget film featuring Haze’s memorable performance evolved into:
- An off-Broadway musical in 1982
- A major Hollywood production in 1986
- Multiple stage adaptations worldwide
- A significant influence on horror-comedy filmmaking
Haze’s interpretation of Seymour Krelborn helped establish the character’s essential traits: the awkward yet endearing personality, the moral struggles, and the complex relationship with the murderous plant Audrey II. These elements would become central to all future adaptations of the story.
Legacy and Influence
Jonathan Haze’s contribution to cinema extends beyond his performances. His work with Roger Corman helped prove that low-budget films could achieve lasting cultural impact through creativity and strong performances. Modern filmmakers continue to study the original “Little Shop of Horrors” as a masterclass in efficient storytelling and character development.
