Tom Savini, the godfather of practical effects, suffered a tragic loss when his Pittsburg home burned to the ground mid August. An electrical fire ravaged through the home, destroying everything inside the walls. Fortunately Tom and his wife Jodii were not injured, but tragically the lives of their beloved cats Bruce and Max were taken.
100 Years of History
Savini’s house was in his family for nearly a century. It contained priceless family heirlooms, including items his family brought to America from Italy. The home also housed props and priceless items from Tom’s decades long career in the horror industry.
The memories and love that were created inside the walls can never be replaced, and will always live with him. But it is the hope of Jason Baker, the GoFundMe campaign creator, that the items that can be replaced will be with the assistance of contributors.
An Outpouring of Compassion
Jason Baker established the GoFundMe campaign to help Savini in the wake of the house fire.
As of the publication of this article, the total raised by the active campaign is $95,449 by 1.2k donations. Among the hundreds of fans who have donated are also friends in the industry, including; horror film composer Harry Manfredini, Stephanie and husband Paul (Triple H) Levesque, Bob Kurtzman and wife Marcy King, and horror actor and stuntman Kane Hodder.
Jason Baker encourages supporters and contributors alike;
“Every act of kindness will mean so much. Thank you for keeping Tom, Tom’s wife, and the memory of Max and Bruce in your thoughts.”
Baker explains the money raised will help assist in temporary housing for Tom and his wife. The funds will also help clean up efforts, as well as the replacement of belongings.
Savini: Mentor, Business Partner, Friend
Baker and Savini have a long and accomplished history together. Baker is a student, friend, and business partner of the special effects artist. They first met in 2008 when he attended Savini’s Special Make-Up Effects Program at the Douglas Education Center as his student. He then directed and produced Smoke and Mirrors: The Story of Tom Savini. The 2015 documentary focuses on Savini as a horror actor, special effects artist, stunt performer, and director.
Finally, the pair’s culmination came with the creation of Callosum Studios. Together they collaborated on special effects projects.
The horror community, both fans and those who make the movies we love, are known for their activism during a call to arms.
Tom Savini’s contribution to the horror industry has been priceless. Years of dedication, contribution, inventions, and passion for the industry makes the special effects artist not just a staple in the genre, but a legend and a hero.
If you are able to assist in his and his family’s time of need, please consider donating to the campaign. Every dollar helps.