Though Mary Shelley can be credited as the creator of Frankenstein, the character has seen more than a few developments since the initial novel was published in 1818. Today, Frankenstein’s monster is one of the most feared villains of all time, with plenty of well-established actors clamoring for the opportunity to play the character.

Regardless of age or taste in film, a majority of audiences undoubtedly understand Boris Karloff’s portrayal of the Monster to be the most widely recognized. Karloff played the character in the 1931 film, a portrayal that earned him worldwide recognition. Though Karloff only played the Monster in a handful of films, his rendition is adored by fans everywhere. Karloff didn’t just play Frankenstein’s monster; he became Frankenstein’s monster.

When pressed as to why he limited his appearances as the Monster, Karloff was honest. He wasn’t willing to sacrifice quality in the name of a steady paycheck.

“I realized the quality of the initial conception was rapidly disappearing,” said Karloff, according to The Frankenscience Monster by Forrest J. Ackerman. “When they began to play the creature for comedy, the spell was broken. I didn’t want to go on to corrupt the roll.”

One such comedic portrayal was in the 1948 film Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein. Though Karloff did not play the Monster in this film, he was invited by Universal Pictures to appear in publicity shots. Universal even agreed to foot Karloff’s hotel bill. The actor agreed on one condition.

“As long as I don’t have to see the movie,” said Karloff.