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Universal Studios Monsters (also shortened as Universal Monsters) is an American media franchise centered on a lineup of characters who have appeared in various horror films primarily produced by Universal Pictures from the 1920s to the 1950s. Although not initially conceived as a franchise, the enduring popularity and legacy of these characters and the films that feature them have led Universal to market them under the collective brand. The main aspect that distinguishes the films from other horror films produced by Universal during the period is that they generally include a monster as central to their narratives, some of whom have become pop culture icons in their own right.

Several of these monsters are based on novels that have lapsed into the public domain, and as such, the characters in the franchise do not refer to the monsters as they may have originated, but rather Universal's interpretation of those characters, including their likeness, as depicted in their films.

In addition to the films that originated them, the franchise includes comics, toys, apparel,, a board game, , and attractions at Universal's theme parks. In addition, the success of cinematic universes in the 21st century has led to reassessments of the Universal Studios Monsters as one of the earliest cinematic universes.

List of characters
The characters listed here are featured in Universal productions and licensed merchandise as Universal Monsters

  

Rising popularity
Talk about Shock Theater, Famous Monsters of Filmland, Aurora toys

Introduction of brand
1990s home video release

Legacy
The Munsters, Van Helsing, crossover universes