It’s common-place for cult horror stars to fade away after the allure of their big break fades away. Robert Brian Wilson was one of the biggest stars in the horror genre following the massively hyped Christmas slasher Silent Night, Deadly Night in 1984. His charisma, acting chops and studly good looks kept his career going with recurring roles on “Santa Barbara” and “Search for Tomorrow.” But by the 1990’s, the steam engine ran out of gas and Mr. Wilson quietly retired from Hollywood in 1993. Life was normal for Robert then, time allowed him to meet his wife, father several beautiful children and open a lucrative trade show business. Though he was enjoying the world outside of the limelight, horror fans were left pining for his return to the entertainment industry.
A shift in short term focus started for Robert Brian Wilson in 2015. He started making random appearances at film festivals and horror conventions. His triumphant return came on January 6, 2016, 23 years from his last credited role, with the premiere of a murder-drama titled The Wrong Roommate. Directed by another cult favorite, David DeCoteau of Creepozoids and Puppet Master III fame, Robert plays the small role of Manny in scenes with Eric Roberts and Jason-Shane Scott. Now as a 53-year-old man, the actor who once dawned a Santa suit while butchering scream queen Linnea Quigley was still recognizable, baby-face and all, and his small part in the movie showed his fans that his talent has remained after all those years away!
Keeping the momentum and business partnership going, David DeCotea brought Robert Brian Wilson on board for another movie. It was, coincidentally, a Christmas movie titled A Husband for Christmas, which was, unfortunately more rom-com than horror. A Husband for Christmas premiered this past Sunday, December 11th, and saw Mr. Wilson play the small role of Kyle. Whether starring roles, small roles or somewhere in the middle, I think we can all say it’s great to see Robert acting again. With that said, what do we have to do to get him in a horror movie next? I’ll start the petition. Seriously.
