The long-running convention turns New Jersey into a meeting ground for horror fans and cult favorites.
by Tara Adams
Writer, Haunt Hunters App
PARSIPPANY, N.J. — At a convention built on horror nostalgia and pop-culture icons, Darcy DeMoss stood out at Chiller Theatre for an additional quality: approachability.
Best known to horror fans for her role as Nikki in "Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives," DeMoss spent the weekend greeting fans without hurry, trading stories, and engaging in conversations that went beyond quick autographs or photo opportunities.
“I love Chiller Theatre,” DeMoss said. “It’s my favorite convention.”
DeMoss brought an easygoing enthusiasm, greeting attendees with a smile and treating each interaction as a genuine exchange rather than a transaction.
For longtime horror fans, moments like that are a reminder of why conventions remain an essential part of the genre’s culture. The connection between performers and audiences, especially in horror, often extends well beyond the screen.
DeMoss remains closely associated with Jason Lives, one of the franchise’s most popular entries, and fans lined up eager to discuss the film’s legacy.
Her broader résumé, which includes "Reform School Girls," "Return to Horror High," and "Pale Blood," further cements her status as a cult-horror mainstay.
Outside of horror, DeMoss's filmography includes "Can't Buy Me Love," "For Keeps," and "Coldfire," among a lengthy list of credits.
By the end of the weekend, DeMoss had done more than revisit past roles. She reinforced a reputation built on gratitude and accessibility, demonstrating an understanding of the loyalty horror fans bring and meeting it with the same respect.
Other celebrities on hand for the event included Chris Noth, who made his first convention appearance, Heather Locklear, Christopher Lambert, Sally Struthers, Linda Blair, and Mike Tramp, among a packed list of stars.
Cosplayers were also a steady presence throughout the weekend, adding to the convention’s atmosphere. Attendees appeared as Frankenstein's monster, The Joker, Art the Clown, and Gilligan from "Gilligan’s Island." Others paid tribute to classic science fiction, including military-uniformed aliens from the television series "V," while a Godzilla cosplayer drew frequent requests for photos as fans moved between autograph lines and vendor booths.
Elsewhere on the convention floor, vendors filled the space with books, horror-themed apparel, handmade candles, monster toys, vinyl records, and an array of retro collectibles.
Among the longtime vendors was Buffalo Bill’s House, representing the filming location used as Buffalo Bill’s home in "The Silence of the Lambs." The Perryopolis, Pa., property now operates as a private vacation rental and offers tours, special events, and themed merchandise.
Pandora’s Box Toys & Collectibles, based in Lafayette, N.J., brought a selection of action figures, retro toys, and hard-to-find memorabilia, while The Two Guys at Chiller booth showcased Halloween blow molds alongside vintage monster and sci-fi toys, games, and collectibles.
“I love that Chiller never disappoints,” said Jeff Annason, one of the operators of The Two Guys at Chiller. “It always brings in great guests and great crowds.”
