Jerry Harrell ”AKA Dr. Madblood”Death,Obituary:Host of a horror movie TV show on WAVY-TV 10
The Hampton Roads air feels a little less spooky this week with the passing of Jerry F. Harrell, the beloved man behind local horror icon Dr. Madblood. For decades, Harrell, as the ghoulish yet gentle Dr. Madblood, was a weekend fixture on WAVY-TV 10, introducing classic horror films with a mix of puns, props, and endearing charm. The character, born in the 1970s, became a cherished tradition, a shared cultural touchstone for generations who grew up watching in the glow of their televisions.
His commitment to the role extended far beyond the studio. For many, Dr. Madblood was a face-to-face friend, most famously holding court each October at Monster Fest at the Chesapeake Central Library, where he delighted fans with his macabre humor.
Yet, behind the lab coat and monster makeup was a man of fascinating depth. A lesser-known but equally impressive facet of Harrell’s life was his status as a world-class Beatles trivia expert. This passion revealed the eclectic mind beneath the character—a man who could discuss the nuances of *Abbey Road* as easily as the lore of *Dracula*.
Jerry F. Harrell’s passing marks the end of an era for local television and community folklore. He was more than a host; he was a curator of camaraderie, uniting families over late-night chills and shared laughter. While Dr. Madblood has signed off, the memories of his unique magic, and the knowledgeable, kind man who created him, will forever haunt the hearts of Hampton Roads with fondness.
