Five awesome new school scream queens (and five old school)

Scream Queens are a horror staple, and debate has raged for decades over which horror actresses deserve top billing. Luckily, I have decided the title is one that can be shared amongst many deserving (and talented) women.

Typically, women referred to as Scream Queens were in 1980s films, maybe 1990s; but, that is not to say that several emerging actresses aren’t also deserving of the title. For the purpose of this article, I will be presenting you with both “Old School” Scream Queens (who began their horror careers in the 70s and 80s), and “New School” Scream Queens, who are currently active in the genre.

It’s important to know that Scream Queens are not necessarily chosen because of the quantity of horror films they have appeared in – I am instead going with their actual performances, importance in the genre and even their enthusiasm and love for horror.

Horror is often a maligned film genre, and there are many well-known actors and actresses who began in horror, yet never speak of those early roles. It’s almost as if they are ashamed, isn’t it? What horror fans really honor are the Scream Queens who continue to choose those scary scripts, and seem to appreciate the fandom that goes with horror super stardom.

Let’s start with our “old school” Scream Queens, shall we? And what better way to begin that with one of the best recognized names in horror royalty, who began her reign in 1978, and still sells a lot of tickets to this very day.