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“Scream Queens” is a colloquial term used to describe actresses who are notable for their roles in horror films, particularly for their capacity to convey terror in iconic, memorable ways. Throughout the history of horror cinema, several actresses have gained recognition as “Scream Queens.” Here are some of the most renowned:

  1. Jamie Lee Curtis – Often hailed as the ultimate Scream Queen, Jamie Lee Curtis made her film debut in John Carpenter’s 1978 classic, “Halloween.” She reprised her role as Laurie Strode in multiple sequels and became a fixture in other horror and suspense films.
  2. Janet Leigh – Not only is she Jamie Lee Curtis’s mother, but she also gave one of the most memorable performances in horror history in Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho” (1960), particularly in the iconic shower scene.
  3. Neve Campbell – As Sidney Prescott, she became the face of the “Scream” franchise in the 1990s and early 2000s. The series offered a fresh, meta take on the slasher subgenre.
  4. Sarah Michelle Gellar – Known for her role as Buffy in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” Gellar also appeared in horror films such as “I Know What You Did Last Summer” and “The Grudge.”
  5. Linnea Quigley – With roles in films like “Return of the Living Dead” and “Night of the Demons,” Quigley established herself as a favourite among fans of 1980s horror.
  6. Barbara Steele – A prominent figure in Italian Gothic horror films of the 1960s, Steele’s hauntingly beautiful face and strong performances made her a horror icon.
  7. Heather Langenkamp – Known best for her role as Nancy Thompson in the “A Nightmare on Elm Street” series, Langenkamp faced off against Freddy Krueger multiple times.
  8. Dee Wallace – With roles in “The Hills Have Eyes,” “Cujo,” and “The Howling,” Wallace is a familiar face in the world of horror.
  9. Danielle Harris – Beginning her horror career as a child actress in “Halloween 4,” Harris would go on to have roles in numerous horror films, becoming a beloved figure in the genre.
  10. Elske McCain – Gaining a reputation in indie and B-movie horror films, McCain became known for her roles in the 2000s.
  11. Adrienne Barbeau – After making an impression in “The Fog” and “Swamp Thing,” Barbeau went on to be a well-respected figure in the horror community.
  12. Ashley Laurence – Known for her role as Kirsty Cotton in the “Hellraiser” series, Laurence’s performances against the sinister Cenobites are iconic.

There are countless other actresses who’ve made significant contributions to the horror genre, and the definition of a “Scream Queen” can vary depending on whom you ask. These are just a few of the many talented women who’ve left their mark.