In Memory of Jonathan Haze: The Icon of Horror Comedy

Renowned for his role in the cult classic The Little Shop of Horrors, Jonathan Haze passed away on November 2, 2024, at the remarkable age of 95. His daughter, Rebecca Haze, confirmed the news through a statement to Deadline, expressing that:

“He died peacefully of natural causes on November 2 at his home in Los Angeles.”

A Journey from Pittsburgh to Hollywood

Born Jack Schachter in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Haze’s career was closely intertwined with celebrated director Roger Corman. He began his film journey with minor roles in Corman’s productions, appearing in notable films such as The Terror (1963), It Conquered the World (1956), and Apache Woman (1955). Their collaboration began in earnest during the filming of Monster from the Ocean Floor (1954), where Haze’s talent began to shine.

The Role That Defined Him

While he engaged in various film projects, Haze’s portrayal of Seymour Krelborn in Corman’s The Little Shop of Horrors is arguably his most iconic role. During a discussion at the Fanex convention in July 2001, Haze shared that the entire film’s interior scenes were shot in a mere two days:

“All the interior scenes in the movie were done in two days; they were like 20-hour days. Then we went out on the streets and did three nights with a second unit, with a totally different crew. It was insane.”

Behind the Scenes Insights

Haze elaborated on the film’s unique setting, revealing that the production took place on Skid Row, utilizing real-life vagrants as extras, who were paid a dime for each background walk-through. Reflecting on the film’s unexpected success, he remarked:

“Sometimes it just all works for you; some days you get home runs and some days you strike out, well that was a home run situation.”

A Grimly Delightful Plot

The Little Shop of Horrors tells the bizarre story of Seymour, an assistant at a flower shop on Skid Row, who nurtures a peculiar plant named Audrey Jr., which has a terrifying appetite for human blood. As Seymour develops feelings for his coworker Audrey Fulquard, played by Jackie Joseph, the narrative takes outrageous turns, leading to a comedic yet dark exploration of ambition and consequence.

A Lasting Legacy

The film’s thematic elements, combined with its quirky humor, have immortalized it in pop culture. The society of Silent Flower Observers of Southern California even honors Seymour in the story, recognizing his unusual botanical achievements—with every award tied to a chilling twist. Subsequently, Haze’s character faces an absurd yet tragic fate as the plant ultimately consumes him.

Beyond acting, Jonathan Haze contributed to the genre by writing the screenplay for Invasion of the Star Creatures (1962) and serving as production manager on Medium Cool (1969). His artistic contributions have left a significant mark on the realm of horror-comedy.

Remembering Jonathan Haze

Haze is survived by his daughters, Rebecca and DD Haze, grandchildren Andre Bryant, Rocco Haze, Ruby Bryant, and great-grandson Sonny. His legacy as a pioneer in horror comedy remains undiminished, continually inspiring new generations of filmmakers and fans alike.

For more insights about the unique world of The Little Shop of Horrors and Jonathan Haze’s remarkable career, you can explore this

.

Source & Images