Linda Blair's Compassionate Return to The Exorcist Franchise

Linda Blair's reconnection with The Exorcist franchise was fueled by genuine care. In a conversation with PEOPLE regarding her non-profit organization, The Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation, the 64-year-old actress sheds light on reprising her iconic role as Regan MacNeil in Exorcist: Believer.

 

The film reintroduces Ellen Burstyn as Regan's mother, Chris MacNeil, who steps in to assist a single father (Leslie Odom Jr.) when his daughter and her friend fall victim to possession.

 

Initially hesitant to sign on, Blair eventually joined the project as an advisor for the film's young actresses, Lidya Jewett and Olivia O'Neill.

 

"I took on the role of advisor to ensure the well-being of the girls, whether it involved religious, theological aspects, or navigating the challenging process they were going through. Playing such a malevolent and evil character is tough, so I just wanted to make sure they were okay," she explains.

 

Traumatic Past and Unexpected Returns

 

Linda Blair's history with The Exorcist dates back to 1973 when she portrayed Regan, a 12-year-old girl possessed by an ancient demon after experimenting with a Ouija board. The film achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success, grossing $441 million globally and receiving 10 Academy Award nominations, marking the first horror film nominated for Best Picture.

 

Despite its success, filming was traumatic for Blair, who, at 14, endured an unfortunate stunt mishap that resulted in a lower spine fracture. Recalling the incident on Shudder's Cursed Films, Blair revealed the severity of the injury and the lack of medical attention she received.

 

"I was crying, screaming, and they thought I was giving an outstanding performance. It fractured my lower spine, and they used the actual footage in the movie," she disclosed.

 

The Unforeseen Journey of Exorcist: Believer

 

Exorcist: Believer unveils a strained relationship between Chris and Regan, who haven't spoken in years. A turning point occurs when a harrowing incident involving Chris leads Regan to her mother's hospital bedside during the film's final scenes.

 

Reflecting on the experience of embodying Regan after five decades, Blair admits to PEOPLE that it was a "bizarre" but "incredibly" rewarding journey.

 

"As an actor, it was honestly bizarre to step back into that role after so many years, but it was a really incredible experience," she shares.

 

Regarding potential sequels, Blair remains in the dark, expressing uncertainty about Regan's involvement. "I honestly know nothing. I have no idea what they're planning," she candidly reveals.

 

The Legacy Continues

 

While two sequels are on the horizon, Blair's focus remains on the unique and unexpected twists her character takes in Exorcist: Believer. The film's exploration of strained mother-daughter dynamics and the resurgence of demonic forces promises a captivating narrative.

 

For those eager to witness Linda Blair's impactful return to The Exorcist universe, Exorcist: Believer is available for streaming and purchase now.