Is Ash in the New Evil Dead? Truth Revealed
by Aishwarya R
Updated Jun 26, 2023
Evil Dead Rise
Evil Dead Rise is an American supernatural horror film released in 2023. It serves as the fifth installment in the popular Evil Dead film series and is both written and directed by Lee Cronin. The movie stars Lily Sullivan and Alyssa Sutherland as the two main characters, portraying estranged sisters who must confront and battle against the terrifying deadites in order to save their family. Supporting roles are played by Morgan Davies, Gabrielle Echols, and Nell Fisher, who makes her debut in the film.
The development of Evil Dead Rise followed abandoned plans for direct sequels to the 2013 film Evil Dead and the 1992 film Army of Darkness, as well as a potential fourth season of the television series Ash vs Evil Dead. In October 2019, Sam Raimi, the creator of the Evil Dead franchise, announced that a new film was in the works. The project was produced by Rob Tapert, with Raimi and Bruce Campbell serving as executive producers. Lee Cronin was chosen to write the screenplay and direct the movie.
Evil Dead Rise was released in theaters in the United States on April 21 by Warner Bros. Pictures. The film has garnered generally positive reviews from critics and has achieved significant box office success, grossing over $146 million worldwide. With a production budget estimated to be between $15 and $19 million, Evil Dead Rise has become the highest-grossing film in the entire Evil Dead series.
Is Ash in the New Evil Dead?
No, Ash Williams does not make an appearance in the new Evil Dead film. In the latest installment of the Evil Dead franchise, "Evil Dead Rise," Ash Williams, the beloved protagonist from the original trilogy, does not make an appearance. However, director Lee Cronin pays homage to the iconic character in a clever and intriguing way. Within the film, the ancient and malevolent book known as the Necronomicon Ex-Mortis, or the Book of the Dead, features a collection of phonograph records. These records contain the recorded voice of none other than Ash Williams, portrayed by the talented Bruce Campbell.
Although Ash's presence is limited to his disembodied voice, his inclusion serves a deeper purpose than a simple nostalgic reference. It hints at the potential for Ash to have a role in future sequels within the Evil Dead universe. While his character may not have a significant impact on the specific events of "Evil Dead Rise," the film establishes a foundation for expanding the world of Evil Dead and setting the stage for upcoming stories.
The film presents the idea that Ash could become a recurring figure, taking on the role of a seasoned wanderer in search of the elusive Book of the Dead. As a wise and experienced fighter, Ash would strive to prevent others from utilizing the book's dark powers, safeguarding humanity against the ongoing menace of Deadite invasion. This notion suggests a promising direction for the franchise, with Ash potentially assuming a mentor or guardian role in future installments.
While it may be disappointing for fans to not see Ash Williams physically in "Evil Dead Rise," his absence allows for a fresh exploration of new characters and narratives within the Evil Dead universe. The film successfully establishes the possibility of Ash's return in future stories, keeping the door open for exciting and thrilling adventures in the ongoing battle against the forces of evil.
Where is Ash Williams?
In the film "Evil Dead Rise," the iconic character Ash Williams, portrayed by Bruce Campbell, does not make an appearance. However, Bruce Campbell himself does have a brief presence in the film, albeit in a different role. Campbell plays a priest, but his portrayal is limited to an auditory capacity. His voice is heard on an old record that is played back over the speakers, adding a nostalgic touch to the film.
While Ash Williams has been a central figure in the previous Evil Dead movies, spanning from "The Evil Dead" in 1981 to "Army of Darkness" in 1993, his character is not included in "Evil Dead Rise." Instead, the film takes a fresh approach by introducing new characters and a new storyline. The focus is on two estranged sisters who are confronted with the emergence of demons, leading them to fight for their survival against a distorted manifestation of their own family.
It is worth noting that Bruce Campbell has previously expressed his retirement from the role of Ash Williams. This decision was evident in the 2013 "Evil Dead" film, directed by Fede Alvarez, where Ash's presence was not prominent, except for a post-credits scene where Campbell delivered his famous catchphrase, "Groovy!" The absence of Ash in "Evil Dead Rise" may disappoint some fans who have grown attached to the character, but it also indicates that the franchise is exploring new directions and possibilities beyond Ash's involvement.
By venturing into new territory with fresh characters and storylines, "Evil Dead Rise" signifies the franchise's willingness to evolve and continue without solely relying on the presence of Ash Williams. While Ash's absence may be bittersweet for fans, it opens the door for the exploration of different aspects of the Evil Dead universe and the potential for future installments to take the series in exciting and unexpected directions.
Who Plays Ash Williams in Evil Dead Franchise?
Bruce Campbell is an American actor and filmmaker who has achieved significant recognition for his portrayal of Ash Williams in Sam Raimi's Evil Dead horror franchise. His involvement in the franchise began with the short film "Within the Woods" in 1978. Campbell has also starred in numerous low-budget cult films, including "Crimewave" (1985), "Maniac Cop" (1988), "Sundown: The Vampire in Retreat" (1989), and "Bubba Ho-Tep" (2002).
In addition to his film work, Campbell has had prominent roles on television. He played the lead in "The Adventures of Brisco County, Jr." (1993–1994) and "Jack of All Trades" (2000). He also had recurring appearances as Autolycus, King of Thieves, in "Hercules: The Legendary Journeys" (1995–1999) and "Xena: Warrior Princess" (1995–1999). Campbell gained further recognition for his portrayal of Sam Axe in the USA Network series "Burn Notice" (2007–2013) and his reprisal of Ash Williams in the Starz series "Ash vs. Evil Dead" (2015–2018). He has also made appearances in films such as "The Escort" (2015).
Beyond acting, Campbell has directed, produced, and starred in documentaries like "Fanalysis" (2002) and "A Community Speaks" (2004). He co-wrote, directed, produced, and starred in the film "Man with the Screaming Brain" (2005), and he directed, produced, and starred in the satirical film "My Name Is Bruce" (2007), which parodied his own career.
Campbell is well-known for his frequent collaborations with Sam Raimi, his brother Ted Campbell, Josh Becker, and Scott Spiegel. Bruce Campbell has made a significant impact in the entertainment industry through his versatile acting roles, filmmaking endeavors, and collaborations with notable talents.
Ash Williams Role in Evil Dead Franchise
Ash Williams is a fictional character and the central protagonist of the Evil Dead franchise. Created by filmmaker Sam Raimi, Ash is brought to life on-screen by the talented actor Bruce Campbell. Notably, Ash is the only character to appear in every installment of the series, including both the original films and the soft reboot films released in 2013 and 2023, where he made post-credits and audio cameos respectively.
Throughout the franchise, Ash embarks on a harrowing journey, facing off against the malevolent entities known as "Deadites." These creatures are sinister beings possessed by the ancient evil force of the Kandarian Demon. Armed with his trusty chainsaw hand, a sawed-off shotgun, and an indomitable spirit, Ash becomes the ultimate warrior against the forces of darkness.
Since his debut, Ash Williams has emerged as a beloved and influential character in the realm of horror. He has achieved the status of a cultural icon and is regarded as one of the most iconic heroes in the genre. In recognition of his enduring popularity, Ash was ranked by Empire magazine as the 24th greatest movie character of all time in 2008. Additionally, Empire readers voted Ash as the greatest horror movie character ever in 2013, solidifying his legendary status.
With his blend of courage, resilience, and a touch of dark humor, Ash Williams has captivated audiences worldwide. His portrayal by Bruce Campbell has become synonymous with the Evil Dead franchise, leaving an indelible mark on the horror genre. The character's enduring popularity has cemented Ash as an iconic figure in both the pantheon of horror heroes and the broader cultural landscape.
Is Ash in the New Evil Dead - FAQs
No, Ash Williams does not appear in "Evil Dead Rise." Although Bruce Campbell, the actor who portrays Ash, has a small role as a priest in the film, his iconic character is absent.
While Bruce Campbell does appear in the film, he does not reprise his role as Ash Williams. Instead, he plays a different character, a priest whose voice can be heard on a recorded message.
Bruce Campbell has stated that he has retired from playing the role of Ash Williams. Therefore, it is uncertain if he will return to the franchise in the future. However, his voice cameo in "Evil Dead Rise" suggests the possibility of occasional appearances in upcoming sequels.
The filmmakers of "Evil Dead Rise" chose to focus on a new set of characters and storylines, set in a different location. As a result, Ash Williams does not have a significant role in this particular film.
While Ash Williams has been a beloved character in the Evil Dead franchise, his absence in "Evil Dead Rise" allows for a fresh approach and the exploration of new characters and narratives. The film still offers the intense and thrilling experience that fans of the series can enjoy, even without the presence of Ash.