Horror Film Historian David Del Valle Dies at 77
Renowned expert and storyteller David Del Valle passes away following a cancer battle.
1Passing of a Legend
David Del Valle, a celebrated historian and author specializing in horror cinema, has died at 77. He passed away on Wednesday at Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center in Burbank. His caregiver and friend, producer Dano Marino, confirmed that Del Valle had been battling esophageal cancer prior to his death.
2A Career in Commentary
Del Valle was widely recognized for his encyclopedic knowledge of horror films, contributing to dozens of laserdisc, DVD, and Blu-ray commentary tracks. His work spanned releases for companies like the Criterion Collection, Severin Films, and Kino Lorber. He provided expert insights for classics such as Suspiria, The Fly, and Count Yorga.
3The Sinister Image Interviews
He produced and hosted the cable television series Sinister Image, featuring deep-dive interviews with iconic horror figures. His 1987 hourlong conversation with Vincent Price remains widely regarded as the most substantial interview the legendary actor ever gave. Del Valle maintained personal relationships with many of the stars he documented throughout his life.
4Early Passion and Beginnings
Born in El Paso, Texas, in 1949, Del Valle developed an early fascination with 1930s Universal monster movies. At age 16, while writing for his high school newspaper in Sacramento, he secured his first interview with Vincent Price. This encounter sparked a lifelong friendship that lasted until Price passed away in 1993.
5Literary and Curatorial Contributions
Beyond his audio commentaries, Del Valle authored books including Lost Horizons Beneath the Hollywood Sign and Six Reels Under. He also wrote for Fangoria magazine and penned the Camp David column for Films in Review. In 2006, he curated a Los Angeles photo exhibit dedicated to Edgar Allan Poe film adaptations.
6On-Screen and Behind Scenes
Del Valle appeared in various films, including From a Whisper to a Scream and Evil Bong 420. He also worked as a talent agent within the horror community and produced a 30th-anniversary tribute to Dark Shadows. His diverse career included roles as a writer, producer, actor, and dedicated archivist of cinema.
7Preserving a Vast Archive
Following his death, Dano Marino will oversee Del Valle's extensive collection of movie memorabilia. This archive includes rare books, photographs, and posters accumulated over decades of immersion in the genre. These materials serve as a testament to his role as a champion for cinema's supporting players and various magical figures.
8Legacy of Horror Cinema
Del Valle is remembered for his wicked sense of humor and his storytelling prowess. By documenting the lives of horror icons, he ensured that the history of the genre remained accessible to future generations. His departure marks the loss of a vital link to the golden era of classic horror filmmaking.
Original article: The Hollywood Reporter — Horror Film Historian David Del Valle Dies at 77