Does Clive Barker’s The Scarlet Gospels spell the end of Pinhead?

Last Updated on August 2, 2021

WARNING: Some spoilers for Clive Barker’s The Scarlet Gospels within!

As you’re probably well aware, Clive Barker is returning to the world of Cenobites with his latest novel, THE SCARLET GOSPELS, coming to bookstores in May. The story resurrects his infamous villain Pinhead, who squares off against private detective Harry D’Amour (protagonist of “The Last Illusion” aka Lord of Illusions). But will this be the last Pinhead tale ever told by Barker?

Seems as though that’s the case. In an article over at The Guardian, it becomes clear that The Scarlet Gospels will be Pinhead’s swan song. At least, on the printed page.

Pinhead needed to say goodbye. He had a farewell speech to make. It was truly as simple as that,” Barker announced through his agent.

Barker’s UK publisher has described the book thusly:

The Scarlet Gospels takes readers back many years to the early days of two of Barker’s most iconic characters in a battle of good and evil as old as time: The long-beleaguered detective Harry D’Amour, investigator of all supernatural, magical, and malevolent crimes faces off against his formidable, and intensely evil rival, Pinhead, the priest of hell.

Barker devotees have been waiting for The Scarlet Gospels with bated breath for years, and it’s everything they’ve begged for and more. Bloody, terrifying, and brilliantly complex, fans and newcomers alike will not be disappointed by the epic, visionary tale that is The Scarlet Gospels. Barker’s horror will make your worst nightmares seem like bedtime stories. The Gospels are coming. Are you ready?

The plot is also said to be about Pinhead “killing off the last of the earth’s magicians and gorging on their knowledge to enhance his powers in a quest to take over hell.” Hot damn!

Don’t worry, though. We haven’t actually seen the last of Pinhead. Barker himself is still working on a HELLRAISER remake for Dimension. And, of course, that studio will likely continue to put out subpar movie sequels for years to come.

Still, might be time to start preparing your farewells to the old-timer.