The Rim Of Hell

In the words of the Beatles – “I read the news today – oh boy!”. Oh boy is right as I was hit with a double whammy of horrible updates. First off, Forry Ackerman, long time editor of ‘Famous Monsters of Filmland’ magazine and originator of the term ‘sci-fi’ died of heart failure at 92 in his home on Thursday. Ackerman was generally acknowledged as a true “superfan” due to his extensive memorabilia collection and tireless enthusiasm for the Horror & Science Fiction genres.   Not as well known to some is that he was the creator of the Vampirella comic character as well as influencing countless future horror writers & directors such as Stephen King, John Landis & Joe Dante.

I have been a long time fan of Forry’s publications & am very sad to hear of his passing. He’s another one I would truly like to have met.  I always imagined the hours of conversation we would have.

The second piece of bad news is legendary pin-up model Betty Page has been hospitalized in intensive care in a hospital in LA after apparently suffering a heart attack.  The 85 year old had been battling for 3 weeks with a case of pneumonia & was to be released when she suffered the attack.  Word from the hospital is that her situation is ‘critical’ at this point.

Betty is probably one of the most familiar pin-up girls ever, yet many don’t know her name.  A pioneering centerfold & bondage model – she’s reputedly been bilked out of millions of dollars that her image has garnered due to unfair contracts & predatory agents.  Only in more recent years has she come out of seclusion.

To me, she is the epitome of the sensual cat-like look of the 50′s – innocent with a wry naughtiness smoldering behind those eyes.   Many young girls of that time period, and even up until today, can credit Betty Page with influencing a proto-goth look that was both provocative and yet charming all the same.

Here’s hoping for a full recovery, Betty!  You’re in our thoughts & prayers. . .