The man who directed what is still widely considered one of, if not the scariest film of all time, has sadly passed away.
William Friedkin died at the age of 87 on Monday in his home in Los Angeles. His death was confirmed by Chapman University dean Stephen Galloway, a friend of Friedkin’s wife Sherry Lansing.
Friedkin's final film, The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial, starring Kiefer Sutherland, is set to premiere at the Venice Film Festival.
In addition to The Exorcist, Friedkin also helmed what many hail as one of the best action thrillers ever made in The French Connection, which won him his only Academy Award for Best Director. Quite a lot of his other films flew under the radar, but many are vastly underrated, including Sorcerer, The Hunted, and Killer Joe.
Linda Blair, who played the young girl possesses by a demon in The Exorcist, shared the following tribute to Instagram.
"Like Sidney Poitier‘s famous movie “To Sir with Love”, how do you put into words appreciation to the person that changed your life forever, along with the world? Billy Friedken was a game changer, thought outside the box, was a genius with an incredibly bold personality and extraordinary imagery that electrified colleagues and moviegoers alike and remained a true maverick throughout his career in the film industry.
Every actor wanted to work with him and maybe my story is the most poignant. Taking a real 13-year-old and confirming my stability to endure the journey he was about to take me and the world on. His directing came with demanding guidance, commitment and strict work ethic. His creative licensing with my performance, always thought provoking and precise with his “on point“ direction for my performance as Regan. Pushing envelopes with ground breaking special effects to ensure my performance was nothing less than shocking and unforgettable.
He fiercely protected me from the maddening crowds that reared their ugly heads back in the day of the movie’s release. He understood my need to remain grounded in nature, my love for animals, and giving me my first prize horse which I named “Best Director” in his honor. He supported my continued love for animals and my foundation Linda Blair Worldheart, to change the world for the animals.
He was my director, friend, and protector. It was an honor to know him and I am deeply saddened at this time. He changed my life forever, along with the world through my performance, and all my performances throughout my career. RIP my dear friend…love, respect and deepest condolences to Sherry, Cedric and Jack."