The Untold Secrets Behind Linda Blair's Iconic Role in The Exorcist Revealed by Director
Linda Blair's pivotal role as Regan in The Exorcist: Believer explored in-depth, shedding light on the significance of her character's return
Summary
Linda Blair, known for her role as Regan in the original Exorcist, took on the role of advisor for the new film, The Exorcist: Believer, ensuring the well-being of the young actors during intense scenes.
Blair declined the offer to reprise her role as Regan in a major way, opting to let the new film center on fresh characters and a new storyline.
"The Exorcist: Believer" serves as a direct continuation of the 1973 original, reintroducing the demonic presence of Pazuzu and bringing back Ellen Burstyn as Chris MacNeil.
During the making of The Exorcist: Believer, director David Gordon Green acknowledges the significant contribution of Linda Blair, who portrayed Regan in the original film. Blair, known for her role as a young woman possessed by a powerful demon, played an important role off-screen in Green's upcoming sequel. Although not making an on-screen appearance, Blair's presence on the set proved to be vital for the production. Green shared his appreciation for Blair's involvement in a recent interview with Total Film (via GamesRadar). Here is Green's full comment:
Having her as an advisor on the movie was a stroke of luck. However, she wasn't keen on taking on a prominent role and preferred to maintain her distance. We enlisted her expertise to navigate the complexities of working with young individuals and ensuring their safety, even in risky situations.
Should Regan Have Returned In The Exorcist: Believer?
Blair was an essential part of the original film and reprised her role as Regan in the sequel, The Exorcist II: The Heretic. However, in the short-lived Exorcist TV show, Geena Davis took over the character. Undeniably, Regan has played a vital role in the franchise and her influence will continue in the new movie.
The Exorcist: Believer is considered a direct sequel to the 1973 original, disregarding the events of all other films. Chris MacNeil, Regan's mother, portrayed by Ellen Burstyn, will make a comeback, along with the returning presence of the demon Pazuzu. The trailers for The Exorcist: Believer have hinted at a reminiscent tone and visual style to Friedkin's original, suggesting that the absence of Regan might have been noticed.
That being said, the new sequel appears to prioritize the development of a fresh narrative with new characters. While a few important characters will make a comeback, the film's storyline will center around a father, portrayed by Leslie Odom Jr., who forms a connection with Chris after his daughter and her friend both experience possession. By excluding Regan's return, the character is able to find solace after her harrowing ordeal, allowing The Exorcist: Believer to shift its focus onto a new generation of protagonists who will propel the franchise forward in the two upcoming sequels.
