Last month, it emerged that filmmaker Osgood Perkins, known for directing Longlegs, is one of several prominent figures interested in leading the upcoming Texas Chainsaw Massacre installment. This news came amid growing anticipation about how the franchise might evolve, particularly regarding the character of Leatherface. Perkins addressed his potential involvement during Neon’s The Next Wave of Horror panel held at San Diego Comic-Con this past weekend.
Discussion on Portraying Leatherface as Neurodivergent
A fan at the panel raised a question about casting a neurodivergent actor as Leatherface, noting that many fans interpret the character as being on the autism spectrum. Perkins responded thoughtfully, clarifying that although he is not officially attached yet, he and his producing partners had explored the project seriously.
My producing partners and I, we went down a path with Texas Chainsaw. To be honest with you, I don’t know what’s happening with it, but we were certainly in the conversation for it,
Perkins said, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding his official role.
He emphasized the respect the rights holders, particularly original writer Kim Henkel, have for the character.
“What’s lovely about these people who own the rights — it’s the original writer [Kim Henkel] — is that they really care about Leatherface.”
Perkins described Leatherface as a character shaped by trauma, suggesting that his neurodivergence influenced how he processed those experiences, ultimately contributing to his monstrous persona.
It goes back to Frankenstein or wherever you want to be with monsters that are usually the misunderstood, sensitive type. I think your idea is beautiful. I don’t see any reason why not.
Guidelines from Rights Holders and Creative Boundaries
The filmmaker shared insights about the creative guidelines provided by the franchise’s rights holders, who compiled a detailed guide outlining what they wanted to see— and what they preferred to avoid — in future installments.
The rights holders provided us with a guide book that they had put together. ‘These are the things that we think are important, these are the things we’d love to see, these are the things we don’t like,’ so on and so forth,
Perkins explained.
Among their clear stipulations was a rule against giving Leatherface a love interest, which sparked some amusement among Perkins and his team.
One of the things was ‘Leatherface should never have a love interest.’ My partners and I were like, ‘Well, now you’ve said it!’
Other Potential Directors and the Future of the Franchise
Besides Perkins, other notable creatives such as Jordan Peele, J.T. Mollner, Glen Powell, and Taylor Sheridan have reportedly been in discussions with Verve, the Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise representatives. As of now, no director has been officially confirmed to take on the next film. Fans and industry watchers remain attentive for announcements regarding the franchise’s direction and the portrayal of its iconic central character.
Significance of Perkins’ Insights on Leatherface’s Character Development
Perkins’ reflections bring an important perspective to the ongoing evolution of Leatherface, spotlighting the potential for a nuanced portrayal that acknowledges the character’s complexities rather than depicting him solely as a villain. His comments underscore the franchise’s ongoing conversation about mental health and diversity in horror storytelling. The involvement of Perkins and other experienced filmmakers could signal a fresh creative direction for Texas Chainsaw Massacre, shaping how the series connects with modern audiences while honoring its roots.
