Bruce Campbell has confirmed he is stepping away from the Evil Dead franchise after 45 years. The actor, who played Ash, said the character is no longer central to the series.
Campbell told the Detroit Free Press that he turned down a larger role after a cameo in the 2023 film Evil Dead Rise. He described the appearance as a one-off gag. The actor noted that the franchise has shifted focus since the end of his Starz series Ash vs Evil Dead in 2018. It has moved away from the cabin setting, director Sam Raimi, and the Ash character. Evil Dead Rise earned $147 million worldwide. Campbell said the success showed the series could attract new viewers without the original elements. Two new films are planned. Evil Dead Burn is set to premiere in US theaters on July 10. Evil Dead Wrath is scheduled for April 7, 2028.