Key Highlights
- Catherine Corcoran sues filmmakers over unpaid royalties from the ‘Terrifier’ franchise.
- The lawsuit claims Corcoran was not informed about a nude scene in her role, violating SAG rules.
- Corcoran alleges extended hanging scenes caused physical harm and violated health regulations.
- The filmmakers deny the claims and will defend themselves vigorously in court.
ACTION STAR LIFELONG LEGAL BATTLE OVER ROYALTIES
In a recent development that has sent shockwaves through Hollywood, actress Catherine Corcoran is suing the filmmakers behind the “Terrifier” franchise for unpaid royalties from her role in the 2016 horror film. The lawsuit, filed this past weekend in California federal court, highlights the ongoing financial struggles faced by independent actors and their battle for fair compensation.
CONTRIBUTION TO THE FRANCHISE
Corcoran stars as one of the pivotal characters in “Terrifier,” a film that launched the successful horror franchise. According to Corcoran, she agreed to play her role at a daily rate of just $100, which was the minimum allowed by the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) at the time. In exchange, she claimed 1% of profits generated from “Terrifier,” including box office, streaming, live events, and merchandise.
CLAIMS OF UNPAID ROYALTIES
The lawsuit accuses Damien Leone and Phil Falcone, the director and producer behind “Terrifier,” respectively, of failing to pay out sufficient royalties. Corcoran’s legal team argues that this case is a common story of low-budget film producers exploiting young actresses through fraudulent practices, sexual harassment, and ultimately, betrayal.
PHYSICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL INJURIES
A particularly contentious point in the lawsuit involves Corcoran’s participation in what she describes as the most famous scene from the original film. In this sequence, her character is hung upside down by her ankles for a 10-hour shoot that allegedly caused significant physical harm. Corcoran claims cranial swelling and eardrum damage due to extended periods of blood pooling in her head. Her legal team also argues that SAG rules were violated because prior written consent was not obtained for the nude scene.
DEFENSE BY FILMMAKERS
An attorney for Damien Leone and Phil Falcone, Larry Zerner, responded to the allegations by telling The Hollywood Reporter: “Damien and Phil deny the claims in the complaint and will vigorously defend this lawsuit.” This legal battle not only highlights the financial struggles of independent actors but also raises questions about industry practices and ethical standards.
As the legal proceedings unfold, Corcoran’s case has garnered significant attention from both fans and critics. The lawsuit serves as a stark reminder of the complex issues surrounding compensation in Hollywood, particularly for roles in low-budget films that eventually become successful franchises.
FUTURE OF THE “TERRIFIER” FRANCHISE
The controversy comes at a time when the “Terrifier” franchise is expanding. Damien Leone confirmed earlier this year that a fourth film is in the works, promising to feature significant revelations about the maniacal serial killer. This development adds another layer of complexity to Corcoran’s legal battle, as it underscores the ongoing financial implications of her role.
With both sides prepared for an intense legal showdown, the outcome of this lawsuit could have far-reaching consequences for independent actors and their rights in Hollywood. As the case moves forward, all eyes will be on whether justice will finally be served to Corcoran and others like her who have faced similar challenges.
