The French novel 'Le Fantôme de l'Opéra' by Gaston Leroux was first published as a serialized work. This novel is the original source material for the entire Phantom of the Opera franchise.
The first major film adaptation of 'The Phantom of the Opera' was released as a silent horror film starring Lon Chaney, bringing the story to a wide cinematic audience.
Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical adaptation premiered in London's West End, becoming one of the longest-running and most famous stage musicals worldwide.
The musical made its Broadway debut in New York City, solidifying its status as a major theatrical success in the United States.
A film version of Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical was released, starring Gerard Butler, Emmy Rossum, and Patrick Wilson, introducing the story to a new generation.
Erik, later known as the Phantom, is born with a disfigured face and experiences a lonely childhood, leading to his genius in music and architecture.
After years of wandering, Erik finds refuge beneath the Paris Opera House, establishing his lair and exerting mysterious control over the opera's happenings.
Christine becomes a chorus girl at the Paris Opera House, beginning her opera career and catching the Phantom's attention.
The Phantom secretly teaches Christine vocal techniques and helps her rise to the status of leading lady, aiming to make her the star of the opera.
Christine debuts as the lead soprano in the opera, thanks to the Phantom's guidance and interference.
The Phantom reveals his identity and disfigured face to Christine during a dramatic encounter in his underground lair.
Raoul, the Vicomte de Chagny and Christine's childhood friend, becomes a romantic rival to the Phantom.
The Phantom resorts to sabotaging performances and intimidating the opera house management to ensure Christine's stardom.
The Phantom kidnaps Christine and takes her to his lair beneath the opera house, demanding she become his companion.
Christine shows compassion towards the Phantom and convinces him to let her go, leading to his emotional breakdown and withdrawal.
Following Christine's departure, the Phantom disappears from the opera house, ending his reign of terror.
