Louis Tully Possession

Lore & Background

Louis Tully is a nerdy accountant as well as a tax attorney and a neighbor of Dana Barrett. He is possessed by the demon Vinz Clortho, the Keymaster who, along with Zuul, opens the interdimensional gate to bring Gozer to Earth in the first film. In Ghostbusters II, he is revealed to have graduated from night law school.

In Their Own Story

Louis Tully is a nerdy accountant as well as a tax attorney and a neighbor of Dana Barrett. He is possessed by the demon Vinz Clortho, the Keymaster who, along with Zuul, opens the interdimensional gate to bring Gozer to Earth in the first film. In Ghostbusters II, he is revealed to have graduated from night law school.

Reader's Guide

Louis Tully is a nerdy accountant as well as a tax attorney and a neighbor of Dana Barrett. He is possessed by the demon Vinz Clortho, the Keymaster who, along with Zuul, opens the interdimensional gate to bring Gozer to Earth in the first film. In Ghostbusters II, he is revealed to have graduated from night law school.

Did You Know?

• Louis Tully is played by Rick Moranis in Ghostbusters and Ghostbusters II.
• He is possessed by the demon Vinz Clortho, the Keymaster.
• Vinz Clortho, along with Zuul, opens the interdimensional gate to bring Gozer to Earth in the first film.
• Louis is a neighbor of Dana Barrett in the first movie.
• In Ghostbusters II, Louis is revealed to have graduated from night law school.

Peter Venkman

As the charismatic yet cynical leader of the paranormal investigation team, Peter Venkman serves as a focal point for the franchise's humor and emotional depth. Portrayed by Bill Murray across four main films, he holds a PhD in psychology but approaches his parapsychology work with a laid-back attitude, often dismissing it as a mere hustle rather than serious science. His character is defined by a blunt persona and womanizing demeanor that contrasts sharply with the academic rigor of his colleagues. Despite his initial skepticism, Venkman undergoes significant development in the original film, where he transitions from a detached observer to someone who genuinely cares for Dana Barrett, their first client. This romantic subplot humanizes him, revealing a capacity for deep connection beneath his sarcastic exterior. His leadership style is informal yet effective, balancing the team's dynamic by providing a grounded, if sometimes unorthodox, perspective on their supernatural encounters.

Raymond Stantz

Raymond 'Ray' Stantz represents the emotional core and enthusiastic spirit of the Ghostbusters, bringing a childlike wonder to the terrifying world of ghosts. Played by Dan Aykroyd in all four main films, Ray is Peter Venkman's closest friend and acts as the team's second-in-command. Unlike his more cynical peers, he possesses an outspoken acceptance of paranormal activity and serves as an expert on both metallurgy and the history of the supernatural. His character is often described as the 'heart' of the group, driven by a genuine passion for their work that keeps morale high during dangerous missions. In animated adaptations, Frank Welker voiced this energetic figure, capturing his relentless optimism. Ray's dedication to science and belief in the unknown makes him an essential bridge between the team's academic goals and their practical field operations, ensuring that the mission remains focused on discovery rather than mere profit.

Egon Spengler

Egon Spengler is the intellectual engine of the Ghostbusters, characterized by his intense focus on science and a distinct lack of social graces. Originally described in scripts as a 'New Wave Mr. Spock,' he co-created the team's specialized equipment alongside Ray Stantz. Harold Ramis portrayed this maniacal yet brilliant figure, crediting the role with launching his acting career after years behind the camera. Egon's narrative arc deepens significantly in later entries, revealing a tragic backstory where his obsession with preventing an apocalypse led to estrangement from his family and friends. He retreated to Summerville, Oklahoma, to guard against Gozer's return, ultimately sacrificing his life in the process. In 'Afterlife,' his spirit returns as a ghostly guide for his granddaughter Phoebe, helping her repair equipment and reconcile with his legacy before passing peacefully into the afterlife, finally finding peace with those he loved.

Winston Zeddemore

Winston Zeddemore serves as the grounded everyman of the team, offering common sense to balance the eccentricities of the three scientists. Played by Ernie Hudson in all four films, Winston was originally hired as a business manager when the Ghostbusters' workload increased, bringing a background that reportedly included Marine service rather than academic parapsychology. Despite lacking formal credentials initially, he often displays more practical wisdom than his colleagues and is even depicted with a doctorate in later media interpretations. His character evolves from a support role to a vital member who provides a voice of reason during chaotic supernatural events. Post-credits revelations show that Winston achieved significant financial success after the team disbanded, building lucrative businesses while secretly funding Ray's occult ventures. His enduring loyalty and desire to continue Egon's work highlight his deep commitment to the original crew's mission and friendship.