Scott Spiegel, the renowned writer of Evil Dead II and executive producer on the Hostel franchise, has tragically passed away at the age of 67. The devastating news was shared on social media by special effects makeup artist Robert Kurtzman, and later posted by Bruce Campbell, who portrayed Ash Williams in the Evil Dead series. Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, a heartbroken Bruce wrote: “This is a big personal loss. Scott Spiegel was a huge part of my formative years back in Michigan.

“From Sunday School to being stock boys together, to Evil Dead II, which Scott co-wrote, I can’t look in the rear-view mirror without seeing this unique guy doing cheap gags. I’m grateful for the treasure trove of happy memories. Keep Shemping, Scott!”.

Meanwhile, Kurtzman paid his own tribute on Facebook, writing: “RIP to our friend and fellow monster lover… Scotty Spiegel, one of the funniest people I’ve ever known. We met on the set of Evil Dead 2 which he wrote and became instant friends. He was the first filmmaker to give our newly formed FX company KNB fx it’s first credit on his film Intruder.

“Over the years we worked together on From Dusk Till Dawn 2, Hostel 3, and others. Scotty wrote one of my favourite guilty pleasures, the Clint Eastwood films the Rookie. So many good times, especially the model kit building, his movie nights back in the day with all our filmmaking friends and Greg Nicotero’s home in the hills. Will miss your smile and the laughs. See you on the other side brother.”, reports the Mirror.

Admirers have subsequently flocked to social media to pay their respects to the seasoned screenwriter, with one writing: “Such a shame. Intruder is an incredible slasher! And Evil Dead 2 is of course a classic. This is without mentioning some other fun genre films such as Hostel III and From Dusk Till Dawn 2. Scott Spiegel has left a real mark on the history of horror cinema.

“Such a huge loss to the filmmaking community – especially horror. #RIPScottSpiegel,” commented another.

A third continued: “Absolutely terrible news. RIP Scott Spiegel.

“RIP Scott Spiegel, one of the best and fun directors in the horror genre,” contributed a fourth.

Last month, reports emerged on social media suggesting Scott had been receiving life support treatment, with an associate revealing he hadn’t been “expected to make it.”

They continued to reveal that Scott had registered as an organ donor, stating: “He’s an organ donor so I hope that many people will be helped the way Scott helped many people throughout his life.”

Scott was not only renowned for his film writing and directing prowess, but also made a memorable appearance in the 2004 blockbuster Spider-Man 2, where he tried to swipe pizzas from the famed superhero. He later made a cameo in the 2009 horror flick Drag Me To Hell, directed by his school friend and regular collaborator, Sam Raimi.

The creative genius behind From Dusk Till Dawn 2: Texas Blood Money, Robot Ninja, The Quick and the Dead, Darkman, Dr Strange, and the Multiverse of Madness was none other than Scott himself.