We have very sad news to report today for the horror community. Steve Dash, known to genre fans for his portrayal of Jason Voorhees in Friday the 13th Part 2, has passed away due to complications from a long battle with diabetes. Dash recently had his leg amputated and had been keeping his fans updated on social media about his condition, which unfortunately took a turn for the worse. He was 74 years old.
In the first Friday the 13th sequel, Dash brought life to the adult version of Jason Voorhees for the very first time. The first movie only showed the character as a child when he was portrayed by Ari Lehman. In the sequel, Jason has grown up, taking to wearing a sack over his head to keep his face hidden. With Dash under the mask, “Sackhead Jason” became such a beloved version of the iconic character that he remains a favorite for many fans to this day.
Dash’s passing comes as a major shock to the community. He has been very active in the convention circuit in recent years, giving countless Friday the 13th fans a chance to meet him. Prior to his passing, Dash also participated in the upcoming fan film Friday the 13th: Vengeance. In a role rather different than Jason Voorhees, Dash portrays a police officer in the movie. It’s nice for him to have been able to be involved in the franchise one last time, giving something back to the fans who hold a mutual love for him.
We’re very sad to hear of Steve Dash’s passing. Known to the horror community as the plain-talking stuntman under Jason’s hood in FRIDAY THE 13TH PART 2, Steve was always an entertaining and lively presence at conventions. Our thoughts are with his family at this time. pic.twitter.com/xC9hpClkTj
— FANGORIA (@FANGORIA) December 19, 2018
Those in the community are already delivering an outpouring of love for Dash, which goes to show just how many lives he’s been able to affect in a positive way. Horror Geek Life wishes to extend condolences to the family, friends, and fellow fans of the awesome Steve Dash.
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