Scarlett Johansson is set to headline the next film in "The Exorcist" franchise, produced by Universal and Blumhouse–Atomic Monster. The new instalment will be written, directed and produced by Mike Flanagan, who has described it as a "radical new take" on the iconic horror property.
Flanagan, known for "Doctor Sleep" and "The Life of Chuck", said: "Scarlett is a brilliant actress whose captivating performances always feel grounded and real, from genre films to summer blockbusters. I couldn't be happier to have her join this Exorcist film."
The original "Exorcist" (1973), directed by William Friedkin, followed a mother's desperate attempt to save her possessed 12-year-old daughter with the help of two Catholic priests. It became both a critical and commercial phenomenon, earning $441 million worldwide and securing 10 Oscar nominations.
Universal acquired the rights to develop a new trilogy in 2021 for $400 million. However, the first attempt to revive the franchise, "The Exorcist: Believer" (2023), fell short of expectations. Although it reunited Ellen Burstyn with the role of Chris MacNeil and earned $136 million globally, it failed to generate the momentum needed to justify sequels.
The upcoming film will exist in the same universe as the 1973 original but will not serve as a sequel to Believer. Additional casting and plot details remain under wraps, though production is scheduled to begin in New York City.
Johansson recently helped reinvigorate another major Universal franchise with "Jurassic World Rebirth", which grossed $868 million worldwide. The Oscar-nominated actor for "Marriage Story" and "Jojo Rabbit" also made her directorial debut this year with "Eleanor the Great", a feel-good dramedy starring June Squibb.