The Life and Legacy of Vincent Price
Vincent Price in one of his iconic horror roles.
Vincent Price was a generous philanthropist and an exceptionally brilliant actor, best known for his chilling performances in horror films. Born on May 27, 1911, in St. Louis, Missouri, he developed a deep love for the arts from an early age, studying at Yale before pursuing a career in acting. Over the years, he earned several nicknames, including Bink, King of the Grand Guignol, and Merchant of Menace, each reflecting his mastery of macabre roles.
Price’s ability to blend black humor with menace made his villains truly unforgettable. Whether portraying a vengeful scientist, a deranged artist, or a cursed nobleman, he had a knack for making even the most sinister characters strangely charismatic. His performances in films like House of Wax, The Pit and the Pendulum, and The Abominable Dr. Phibes showcased his signature mix of theatricality and eerie charm. Fans could always count on him to deliver a wicked laugh, a bone-chilling monologue, or a spectacular death scene.
Beyond the screen, Price’s dedication to his craft went beyond memorizing lines—he fully embodied his roles. He famously attended his own movie screenings dressed in his character’s elaborate costumes, delighting audiences with his larger-than-life presence. His love for knowledge extended far beyond horror films, too. In 1955, he appeared on the game show The $64,000 Question and proved his intellect by winning $32,000, answering questions about fine art, a subject he was deeply passionate about.
His legacy lives on, not only through his unforgettable performances but also through his contributions to the arts and education. Whether terrifying audiences or sharing his vast knowledge, Vincent Price was truly one of a kind.
Vincent Price was the grandson of inventor Vincent Clarence Price, the man behind Dr. Price’s Cream of Tartar and baking powder, a product that became a household staple. Coming from a well-established family, Price was given the finest education from an early age and was raised in an environment rich in culture and sophistication. His upbringing nurtured his appreciation for the arts, literature, and history, shaping the refined persona he carried throughout his life.
In his youth, the majestic and strikingly handsome Price stood at an impressive 6'4", a commanding presence that made him unforgettable both on and off the stage. Known for his intellectual depth and eloquent speech, he had a natural flair for storytelling and performance. His journey into theater began in the 1930s, and from the very start, he displayed an exceptional range of expression, allowing him to seamlessly transition between drama, horror, and even comedy. While many recognize him for his chilling roles, fewer know that he once starred in a one-man stage production about Oscar Wilde, a role that allowed him to showcase his deep admiration for literature and the arts.
The Raven read by Vincent Price
Vincent Price’s Passion for Art and Philanthropy
Price’s love for knowledge extended far beyond acting. He studied Art History and Fine Arts at Yale, later continuing his education at the Courtauld Institute of Art in London, where he deepened his expertise in European art. He was not just a student of art—he was a passionate collector, dedicating much of his life to preserving and sharing artistic works. In a remarkable act of generosity, he donated over 90 original pieces of art to East Los Angeles College, a contribution that formed the first teaching art collection in the United States. Thanks to his vision, the Vincent Price Art Gallery remains open to the public free of charge, ensuring that his love for art continues to inspire new generations.
Vincent Price was known to be rather superstitious, often embracing the eerie and mysterious elements that defined his career. Interestingly, he shared a birthday with fellow horror legend Christopher Lee, both born on May 27th—a fitting coincidence for two of cinema’s greatest masters of macabre.
Beyond acting, Price’s love for mystery extended into publishing; he even owned a mystery novel book company, further cementing his connection to the genre. His impressive memory was legendary—he could recall entire scripts and lengthy monologues with ease. In 1964, he recorded a 20-minute segment in a single take, showcasing his remarkable ability to deliver dialogue flawlessly. His talent wasn’t limited to film—he also lent his iconic voice to CBS and BBC mystery radio programs, bringing chilling tales to life with his unmistakable tone.
On television, he became a fan favorite as the eccentric villain Egghead in the 1960s Batman series, starring Adam West. His film career was just as diverse. He made his debut in Service Deluxe (1938), but his first foray into horror came shortly after in Tower of London (1939), where he starred alongside Boris Karloff. Over the years, he played a range of unique roles, from an antique dealer-turned-detective in Collector’s Item to a supporting role in the biblical epic The Ten Commandments (1956).
Vincent Price and His Iconic Horror Roles
Of all his roles, his personal favorite was The Last Man on Earth (1964), a haunting adaptation of Richard Matheson’s I Am Legend. He also portrayed the Devil himself in The Story of Mankind (1957), proving his versatility extended far beyond horror. His final film, Edward Scissorhands (1990), saw him acting alongside Johnny Depp, a fitting farewell for a career that spanned over five decades.
Vincent Price was a Life Board Member of the Witch’s Dungeon Classic Movie Museum, a Connecticut-based attraction dedicated to preserving the legacy of horror cinema. This museum features life-sized replicas of iconic characters from memorable horror films, ensuring that classic monsters and villains remain part of movie history for generations to come. Price’s involvement in the museum reflected his lifelong dedication to the horror genre and his appreciation for the artistry behind it.
Among his most popular roles, he is best remembered for starring in The Fly (1958), where he played the ill-fated scientist witnessing a horrifying experiment gone wrong. His performance in The Abominable Dr. Phibes (1971) introduced audiences to a vengeful organist with a twisted sense of justice, while The Masque of the Red Death (1964), based on Edgar Allan Poe’s tale, showcased Price at his most sinister as the decadent and cruel Prince Prospero. These films, among many others, solidified his reputation as one of horror's greatest icons.
Beyond the screen, Price was known for his kind-hearted and generous nature. He frequently gave back to the institutions that shaped him, including his theater alma mater, St. Louis Country Day School, where he made significant donations to support the arts. Whether in film, literature, or education, his legacy was built on a deep passion for culture, ensuring that both horror and the fine arts remained accessible to future generations.
Vincent Price was married three times and had two children, a son and a daughter. Despite his larger-than-life on-screen persona, he was deeply devoted to his family. After his passing on October 25, 1993, his daughter, Victoria Price, honored his legacy by writing a detailed biography about her father. Published in 1999, the book provided an intimate look at the man behind the chilling performances, revealing his warmth, humor, and deep passion for the arts.
Price was not just a master of horror—he was also a true admirer of fine arts and craftsmanship. Throughout his life, he was a frequent visitor to art galleries and amassed a priceless collection of original artwork from some of America’s most renowned artists. His appreciation for beauty extended beyond paintings; he was also an avid gardener, known for his exquisite collection of rare cymbidium orchids, which he cared for with the same dedication he gave to his film roles.
The Culinary Side of Vincent Price: Cooking and Fine Dining
Vincent Price wasn’t just a master of horror—he was also a gourmet chef. His cookbook is filled with world-class recipes and fine dining history. Grab a copy on Amazon!
Beyond acting, collecting, and gardening, Price had yet another talent—cooking. He was a gifted chef who didn’t just dabble in the kitchen for show; he was truly passionate about fine cuisine. Over the years, he authored multiple cookbooks, offering a deep dive into gourmet food, international flavors, and fine dining experiences. Unlike many celebrity-authored cookbooks, his were not just novelty items—they were serious culinary works, reflecting his love for history, art, and culture through food.
One of his most famous works, A Treasury of Great Recipes, remains a highly sought-after collector’s item, packed with classic dishes from world-renowned restaurants. In it, Price shared not just recipes but detailed stories and insights about fine dining establishments from around the world, making it as much a travel and history book as a cookbook.
His passion for gourmet cuisine extended beyond writing. He co-hosted the British TV series Cooking Price-Wise, where he not only shared recipes but also introduced viewers to the finer points of food and wine pairings. He believed that great food was an art form, just like acting and painting, and he took just as much joy in a well-cooked meal as he did in a perfectly delivered monologue.
Today, his cookbooks are still highly prized by collectors and food lovers alike, proving that Vincent Price’s legacy wasn’t just about horror—he was a man who truly lived for the finer things in life.
Vincent Price’s Unforgettable Voice in Pop Culture
While horror fans will always remember him for his chilling performances, one of his most famous contributions to pop culture came through his voice. In 1982, he delivered the legendary narration for Michael Jackson’s Thriller—the biggest-selling album of all time. His eerie monologue and sinister laugh became instantly iconic, adding a touch of classic horror to the world of pop music. Although there’s a long-standing story that Price never received royalties for the track, his voice became an unforgettable part of music history. (See our [records section] for more classic vinyl and music collectibles!)
Final Thoughts on Vincent Price’s Lasting Influence
Whether in film, literature, art, or music, Vincent Price was a true Renaissance man whose influence stretched far beyond the horror genre. His legacy remains alive in every spine-chilling monologue, every eerie laugh, and every classic movie that still thrills audiences today.
ML Lamp is the owner of Kilroy Was Here. After his 20 years of working in Las Vegas in the entertainment promotions field, Mr. Lamp retired in 2002 from his job to pursue his passion for collectibles. Now as a guest speaker and author he’s living the dream, and sharing his warmth with You.