Although the films were not popular with critics, "Friday the 13th" is considered one of the most successful media franchises in America—not only for the success of the films, but also because of the extensive merchandising and repeated references to the series in popular culture. The franchise's popularity has generated a fanbase who have created their own "Friday the 13th" films, fashioned replica Jason Voorhees costumes, and tattooed their bodies with "Friday the 13th" artwork. Jason's hockey mask has become one of the most recognizable images in horror and popular culture.