Yours Cruelly, Stan the Mechanic
It’s no secret how much I love Elvira. Anyone who knows me personally will tell you this. I own at least 15 shirts with her face on them plus all sorts of DVDs, books, dolls, figures, comic books, pins, trading cards…you name it, I got it! I have adored her since childhood and my admiration for her has only increased with age. Her influence is seen throughout my own horror hosting show and Stan talks about his fondness for the Mistress of the Dark…a lot!
Now, why is that you ask? Well, I’m not quite sure. Just seeing her makes me happy. The camp, the sexy costume, the double entendres, the irreverence; it all just melds together so perfectly to create an iconic and unforgettable character.
Not only is Elvira amazing but so is Cassandra Peterson, the woman behind the curtain, so to speak. She is extremely active politically and is often seen at various protests fighting the good fight for equal rights. She was a gay ally long before it was fashionable. Her animal rights work is well known and respected. Plus, she’s just a nice person. I’ve met her at conventions and book signings, and she is so sweet and generous to her fans. Don’t get me wrong, I know that celebs are on their best behavior when attending these sorts of things, but there is something different about her. She is generous with her time and is always ready with a wink, a smile or a joke. She provides that same level of kindness off the convention floor too. I once ran into her in a parking lot and she remembered who I was. (I had asked her previously if she liked the handle ‘theboogeybear’ for Instagram and she thought it was completely adorable! I jump started the account immediately. That’s how she remembered me. That is still my personal, non-Stan handle if you care to check it out.) From what I understand, those who’ve worked with her professionally all have amazing things to say too.
Its this conglomeration of personal interaction, lifelong fandom and awe at the legendary nature of the career she built in the profession that I love that literally moved me to tears this week when she came out. I am so happy for her. Her partner T is no stranger to the fanbase either. I am sure we have all seen her at Cassandra’s convention tables. I remember her as being really funny and personable too. (Mostly I remember her helping me hoist my ample booty off Elvira’s low-lying couch during the photo op pictured in this blog!) I am so happy they found each other and that now they don’t have to keep their love a secret. How terrible that must have been for them. And how sad that the decision felt necessary to protect the Elvira brand. I understand it though. I’m glad they are free of that burden now.
As a queer person, having someone I already idolized come out as a member of our community is just so incredible. As if I could love Cassandra anymore than I already did. What a fabulous proclamation to make as we celebrate 40 years of Elvira in 2021!
I am so excited that Shudder has seen the light and given her a special (which airs tomorrow 9/25 at 8PM EST). I can only hope it develops into a regular series. I also caught an interview with her where she says that she hosted some more horror movies for another network that will air before Halloween, but she was contractually obligated not to say which channel until they decide to announce it. All this, plus her autobiography, which I am in the middle of and can tell you is wonderful.
Its Elvira’s world, we’re just living in it! Go off queen! I bow to thee.
Get your copy of Yours Cruelly, Elvira: Memoirs of the Mistress of the Dark here: https://amzn.to/3i4Sx1o