Universal Pictures is set to release the highly anticipated horror film, The Exorcist: Believer, on October 13, 2023, as a new installment in The Exorcist franchise.
The film’s trailer has already left horror fans thrilled, showcasing the terror of the original with a fresh twist. This time, the story revolves around two young girls, Katherine (Olivia Marcum) and Angela (Lidya Jewett), who are possessed by a demon.
Fans are excited to see Ellen Burstyn reprise her role as Chris MacNeil, who joins forces with two families to perform a joint exorcism and save their daughters.
Linda Blair’s Return Confirmed
Despite her absence in the trailer, director David Gordon Green confirmed that Linda Blair, who played Regan in the original Exorcist film, will indeed make an appearance in The Exorcist: Believer.
In an exclusive interview, Green revealed that Blair served as a technical advisor and helped bring out excellent performances from the young actresses. Although reports suggest her role might be limited to a brief cameo, Blair’s involvement is highly anticipated by fans.
Keeping Blair’s Role Secret
Green’s decision to keep Blair’s role under wraps is likely strategic, given his approach to treating The Exorcist: Believer as a direct sequel to the original, disregarding Exorcist II: The Heretic.
Similar to his previous work on the Halloween franchise, Green is known for creating suspense and intrigue around familiar characters. By keeping Blair’s involvement discreet, the director aims to pique the audience’s interest and enhance the impact of her return.
Fans Need Not Worry
While some may wonder about Regan’s absence in the marketing material, it is important to remember that Neve Campbell’s character in Scream 5 faced a similar situation before the film’s release.
Campbell’s role was eventually revealed to be pivotal in the film’s final act. Therefore, Universal Pictures might be employing a similar tactic to keep Blair’s return a pleasant surprise for audiences.
The Exorcist: Believer promises to be a chilling addition to the iconic horror franchise, with Linda Blair’s involvement adding to the excitement. Horror enthusiasts can look forward to the film’s theatrical release on October 13.