Scarlett Johansson has been cast to lead a new installment in the Exorcist franchise, directed by Mike Flanagan. The film represents a fresh take on the iconic horror property, set within the original universe but not as a sequel to 2023's The Exorcist: Believer. Produced by Blumhouse and Atomic Monster, the project aims to revive the series following the previous film's underwhelming performance.
Casting and Creative Team
Scarlett Johansson, a two-time Oscar nominee known for roles in Marriage Story and Jojo Rabbit, will headline the untitled Exorcist film. Mike Flanagan, acclaimed for horror projects like Doctor Sleep, will write, direct, and produce through his Red Room Pictures banner. "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," Flanagan said.
The production involves Blumhouse-Atomic Monster, with Jason Blum as producer and Ryan Turek as executive producer, alongside Morgan Creek Entertainment's David Robinson. Alexandra Magistro will executive produce for Red Room Pictures.
Franchise Background
The original 1973 Exorcist, directed by William Friedkin, became a cultural phenomenon, earning 10 Oscar nominations and grossing $441 million globally. Universal acquired rights for a trilogy in 2021 for $400 million, but David Gordon Green's The Exorcist: Believer earned only $136 million worldwide, leading to his departure and a shift in direction. This new film offers an all-new story in the Exorcist universe, described as a "radical new take."
Production Details
Filming is set to begin in New York City, with Johansson's schedule aligning this as her next project after recent successes like Jurassic World: Rebirth, which grossed nearly $869 million. An earlier announced 2026 release has been dismissed by Flanagan. Johansson, who recently directed Eleanor the Great, brings her star power to what marks her first major horror role.