They're Coming To Get You Barbara: A Deep Dive Into The Iconic Line From Night Of The Living Dead

Jodie Mayert 11 May 2025

Let's talk about one of the most iconic lines in horror history: "They're coming to get you Barbara." It's a line that has terrified and fascinated audiences for decades. This chilling phrase has become synonymous with the horror genre and the groundbreaking film 'Night of the Living Dead.' But what exactly makes it so powerful? Why does it still resonate with us today? And what does it say about our fear of the unknown?

Picture this: a dark, stormy night, a mysterious house, and a woman screaming for her life. That's the scene that introduced us to Barbara, a character who became an unwitting symbol of vulnerability in the face of chaos. Directed by George A. Romero, 'Night of the Living Dead' wasn't just a horror movie—it was a cultural phenomenon that redefined the genre. And at the heart of it all is this haunting line.

But let's not forget, "They're coming to get you Barbara" isn't just about zombies or horror movies. It's a metaphor for the fears we all carry deep inside. Whether it's fear of the unknown, fear of death, or fear of losing control, this line taps into something primal within us. So, buckle up because we're diving deep into the world of Barbara, the undead, and why this line still sends shivers down our spines.

Who Was Barbara? A Quick Bio

Before we dive into the deeper meaning of the line, let's take a moment to understand Barbara herself. Played by Judith O'Dea, Barbara was the quintessential '60s horror protagonist—innocent, naive, and completely unprepared for the chaos that unfolded around her. Below is a quick rundown of her character:

Full Name	Barbara
Played By	Judith O'Dea
Role	Protagonist
Key Trait	Vulnerability
Famous Line	"They're coming to get you Barbara"

Why "They're Coming to Get You Barbara" Still Matters

So, why does this line still hold so much power? Well, it's not just about the words themselves—it's about the context. In a world where zombies are literally clawing at your door, this line serves as a wake-up call. It's a reminder that sometimes, the worst fears can become reality. And let's be honest, who hasn't felt like the world is coming to get them at some point in their life?

Breaking Down the Line

Let's break it down piece by piece:

"They're coming" – This creates a sense of urgency and inevitability. There's no escape, no hiding. The threat is coming, and it's coming fast.
"to get you" – This adds a personal touch. It's not just a random threat; it's targeting you specifically. You're the one who's in danger.
"Barbara" – Naming the victim adds a layer of intimacy. It's not just some random person in danger; it's someone you know, someone you care about.

Combined, these elements create a perfect storm of fear and anxiety. It's no wonder this line has become so iconic.

The Cultural Impact of "They're Coming to Get You Barbara"

This line didn't just scare audiences in 1968; it left a lasting impression on popular culture. From parodies to homages, "They're coming to get you Barbara" has been referenced countless times in movies, TV shows, and even music. But why does it resonate so deeply?

For starters, it's a reflection of the times. 'Night of the Living Dead' was released during a period of social and political upheaval. The Vietnam War, civil rights movements, and the Cold War all contributed to a sense of unease and uncertainty. This line tapped into those fears and gave them a voice. It was a reminder that sometimes, the monsters we fear are closer than we think.

How It Changed Horror

Before 'Night of the Living Dead,' horror movies were often seen as cheap thrills. But Romero's film changed all that. It brought a level of realism and social commentary to the genre that had never been seen before. And "They're coming to get you Barbara" was at the heart of that transformation.

By focusing on ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances, Romero showed that horror isn't just about monsters—it's about the human condition. This line became a symbol of that shift, and it's a legacy that continues to influence filmmakers today.

The Psychology Behind the Fear

Let's talk about the psychology of fear for a moment. Why does this line scare us so much? According to experts, it's all about the unknown. Humans are wired to fear the unfamiliar, and zombies are the ultimate representation of that fear. They're not just monsters—they're former humans, twisted and distorted by some unknown force.

When we hear "They're coming to get you Barbara," we're not just scared for Barbara; we're scared for ourselves. We imagine ourselves in her shoes, trapped in a world where the rules no longer apply. It's a primal fear that taps into our deepest anxieties.

How Fear Affects Us

But fear isn't just a feeling—it's a physical response. When we're scared, our bodies release adrenaline, our hearts race, and our breathing quickens. It's a survival mechanism that dates back to our earliest ancestors. And "They're coming to get you Barbara" triggers that response in a way that few other lines can.

It's not just about the words—it's about the context. When we hear this line, we're transported back to that dark, stormy night in the film. We feel Barbara's terror, and we experience it as if it were our own.

The Legacy of Barbara

Barbara may have been a fictional character, but her impact on the horror genre is very real. She became a symbol of vulnerability and resilience, a character who faced her fears head-on, even if she didn't always succeed. And "They're coming to get you Barbara" became her battle cry, a reminder that sometimes, the only way to survive is to face your fears.

But Barbara's legacy extends beyond horror. She's a symbol of the strength that lies within all of us. Whether we're facing zombies, personal demons, or everyday challenges, her story reminds us that we're stronger than we think.

Lessons We Can Learn from Barbara

So, what can we learn from Barbara's experience? Here are a few key takeaways:

Face your fears head-on. Sometimes, the only way to overcome them is to confront them directly.
Stay calm under pressure. Panic may be a natural response, but it won't help you survive.
Trust your instincts. In times of crisis, your gut feeling can be your best guide.

These lessons may not help you survive a zombie apocalypse, but they can certainly help you navigate the challenges of everyday life.

Modern Interpretations of "They're Coming to Get You Barbara"

As with any iconic line, "They're coming to get you Barbara" has been reinterpreted countless times over the years. From parodies to serious homages, filmmakers and artists continue to find new ways to pay tribute to this legendary phrase. But why does it continue to inspire?

For one, it's a testament to the power of storytelling. A simple line can evoke so much emotion and meaning. It's also a reminder of the impact that 'Night of the Living Dead' had on the horror genre. Even today, filmmakers look to Romero's work for inspiration, and "They're coming to get you Barbara" remains a key part of that legacy.

Examples of Modern Interpretations

Here are a few examples of how this line has been reinterpreted in modern media:

TV Shows: Shows like 'The Walking Dead' and 'Fear the Walking Dead' have paid homage to this line in various ways.
Music: Bands and artists have used this line in their lyrics, creating a new generation of fans.
Films: Remakes and spin-offs of 'Night of the Living Dead' have kept this line alive, ensuring that it continues to terrify new audiences.

It's a testament to the enduring power of this line that it continues to inspire and terrify audiences more than 50 years after it was first spoken.

The Future of Horror

As we look to the future of horror, it's clear that "They're coming to get you Barbara" will continue to play a role. Whether it's through new interpretations, parodies, or homages, this line will remain a staple of the genre. But why does it continue to resonate?

For one, it's a reflection of our deepest fears. In a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable, this line serves as a reminder that sometimes, the only way to survive is to face our fears head-on. It's a message that resonates with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

What Does the Future Hold?

As technology continues to evolve, so too will the ways we experience horror. Virtual reality, augmented reality, and other immersive technologies promise to take the genre to new heights. But one thing will remain constant: the power of storytelling. And "They're coming to get you Barbara" will continue to be a key part of that tradition.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "They're coming to get you Barbara" is more than just a line—it's a cultural phenomenon that has left an indelible mark on the horror genre. From its origins in 'Night of the Living Dead' to its modern interpretations, this line continues to terrify and inspire audiences around the world.

So, the next time you hear this line, take a moment to reflect on its power. It's not just about zombies or horror movies—it's about the fears we all carry deep inside. And remember, sometimes the only way to survive is to face those fears head-on.

Now, it's your turn. Have you ever felt like the world was coming to get you? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don't forget to check out our other articles for more insights into the world of horror.

Who Was Barbara? A Quick Bio
Why "They're Coming to Get You Barbara" Still Matters
The Cultural Impact of "They're Coming to Get You Barbara"
The Psychology Behind the Fear
The Legacy of Barbara
Modern Interpretations of "They're Coming to Get You Barbara"
The Future of Horror
Conclusion

“They're coming to get you, Barbara!” Autographed 8x10 Russ Streiner

they're coming to get you Barbara by gloomygvrl666 on Newgrounds

"They're coming to get you, Barbara" Liminal Horror supplement by

Newsure