In this special episode of Discovering 615, Rob sits down with actor James Stokes, best known for stepping into the mask as Jason Voorhees in Voorhees: Night of the Beast, and for memorable roles in Stranger Things and the upcoming film The Forest Through the Trees.
They dig into the real story behind the scream—what it takes to make it in the film industry, the mental and emotional highs and lows of acting, and how perseverance and community support are the true keys to surviving Hollywood. James opens up about the challenges of typecasting, building a career outside the mainstream, and the surprising generosity of the horror film community.
He also shares his passion for charity work, often appearing at events either in full Jason costume or simply as himself, using his platform to support causes that matter. This conversation is equal parts behind-the-scenes, personal growth, and inspiration.
Whether you're a movie buff, a fan of the horror genre, or someone chasing your own creative path, this episode is packed with stories, insight, and heart.
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Cardiac Cowboys
The heart was always off-limits to surgeons. Cutting into it spelled instant death for the patient. That is, until a ragtag group of doctors scattered across the Midwest and Texas decided to throw out the rule book. Working in makeshift laboratories and home garages, using medical devices made from scavenged machine parts and beer tubes, these men and women invented the field of open heart surgery. Odds are, someone you know is alive because of them. So why has history left them behind? Presented by Chris Pine, CARDIAC COWBOYS tells the gripping true story behind the birth of heart surgery, and the young, Greatest Generation doctors who made it happen. For years, they competed and feuded, racing to be the first, the best, and the most prolific. Some appeared on the cover of Time Magazine, operated on kings and advised presidents. Others ended up disgraced, penniless, and convicted of felonies. Together, they ignited a revolution in medicine, and changed the world.