Scarlett Johansson has been cast in the lead role of an upcoming Exorcist movie directed by Mike Flanagan. The film promises an all-new story within the franchise's universe, separate from the 2023 sequel The Exorcist: Believer. Flanagan expressed enthusiasm about working with the Oscar-nominated actress.
Announcement Details
On November 25, 2025, it was announced that Scarlett Johansson will lead Mike Flanagan's bold new take on The Exorcist franchise. The project, backed by Blumhouse-Atomic Monster, Morgan Creek Entertainment, and Universal Pictures, is being written and directed by Flanagan through his Red Room Pictures banner. This installment introduces a completely original story set in the same universe as the iconic 1973 film, and it is explicitly not a sequel to David Gordon Green's 2023 release, The Exorcist: Believer.
Flanagan, known for horror projects like The Haunting of Hill House, Doctor Sleep, and The Fall of the House of Usher, praised Johansson's versatility. In a statement to Variety, he said, "Scarlett is a brilliant actress whose captivating performances always feel grounded and real, from genre films to summer blockbusters, and I couldn’t be happier to have her join this Exorcist film."
Production and Background
Filming is slated to take place in New York City, though no start date has been confirmed, and earlier reports of a March 2026 release appear delayed as pre-production continues. This marks Johansson's first venture into horror, following her recent roles in blockbusters like Jurassic World Rebirth.
The original 1973 Exorcist, directed by William Friedkin and based on William Peter Blatty's 1971 novel, revolutionized the genre, earning 10 Oscar nominations including Best Picture and grossing $441 million worldwide. After Universal's investment in reviving the franchise and the underwhelming reception to The Exorcist: Believer, Flanagan's approach aims for a fresh psychological horror narrative, leveraging his expertise in exploring human fears.