Nightbooks’ star Lidya Jewett has been cast in the upcoming direct sequel to William Friedkin’s classic horror film, The Exorcist. Blumhouse and Peacock are producing the film, which is set to hit theaters on October 13th. Although details about Jewett’s character are being kept under wraps, she will join the previously announced cast members, Leslie Odom Jr. and Ann Dowd.
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This sequel will not be a remake, but rather a direct continuation of the original horror story. David Gordon Green, known for Halloween, is directing from a screenplay he co-wrote with Scott Teems, Danny McBride, and Peter Sattler. Oscar winner Ellen Burstyn will reprise her iconic role as Chris MacNeil, 40 years after the original film’s release in 1973.
The sequel will be produced by Jason Blum, David Robinson, and James Robinson, with Green, McBride, and Couper Samuelson serving as executive producers. Blumhouse and Morgan Creek Production will co-produce the film, with Ryan Turek overseeing the project on behalf of Blumhouse.
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The original film, The Exorcist, released in 1973 was directed by William Friedkin and based on the novel of the same name by William Peter Blatty. The film centered around the story of a 12-year-old girl named Regan (played by Linda Blair), who becomes suddenly possessed by a demon after encountering an old Ouija board. In a last attempt to save Regan, two Roman Catholic priests (played by Max von Sydow and Jason Miller) are enlisted to conduct an exorcism on her. The film was widely acclaimed for its horror elements, cinematography, and performances, particularly Ellen Burstyn’s portrayal of Regan’s mother, Chris MacNeil. The film was nominated for 10 Academy Awards, winning two, and remains one of the most iconic and influential horror films of all time.