Linda Blair, renowned for her unforgettable performance as Regan MacNeil, the demonically possessed character in William Friedkin’s iconic horror film “The Exorcist” (1973), mourns the loss of the brilliant director. Friedkin, whose pioneering vision reshaped the cinematic landscape, passed away at the age of 87. Blair, who was only 14 at the time of filming and received an Oscar nomination for her role, pays homage to the man who forever altered her life and the world of filmmaking.
Blair begins her heartfelt tribute by drawing a parallel between Friedkin’s impact and Sidney Poitier’s renowned movie “To Sir with Love.” She acknowledges the difficulty of expressing gratitude to someone who profoundly transformed her life along with the entire world. Highlighting Friedkin’s innovative thinking, rebellious nature, and extraordinary artistic vision, Blair describes him as a true game changer and a maverick whose work electrified both colleagues and moviegoers. The late director’s bold personality and groundbreaking imagery left an indelible mark on the film industry.
A Demanding Director with Visionary Techniques
While Blair has previously attributed her ongoing back pain to Friedkin’s demanding requirements during filming, including the use of a harness and rigging for the convulsing and flailing scenes of Regan, she graciously acknowledges the effectiveness of his techniques. Friedkin was dedicated to pushing the boundaries of special effects to ensure Blair’s performance was shocking and unforgettable. In her tribute, Blair admires Friedkin’s directorial genius and his ability to elicit provocative and precise performances from his actors.
A Shield Against the Madness
When “The Exorcist” became a cultural phenomenon, garnering immense attention for the cast, Friedkin fiercely protected Blair from the overwhelming crowds that emerged during the film’s release. He shielded her from the negative aspects of fame and acted as not only her director but also her friend and protector. Blair expresses her deep sadness over Friedkin’s passing and reiterates his profound influence on her life and career. Through her performance as Regan, Friedkin changed not only her life but also left an indelible impact on the world of cinema.
Blair fondly recalls her friendship with Friedkin and acknowledges his support for her passion for nature and animals. In honor of their bond, he gifted her a prized horse, which she named “Best Director.” Furthermore, Friedkin continued to support Blair’s dedication to animal welfare through her foundation, Linda Blair Worldheart, which strives to improve the lives of animals worldwide. The actress treasures the privilege of knowing Friedkin and the lasting impact he had on her personal and professional journey.
We bid farewell to William Friedkin, a visionary director, and mourn his passing along with Linda Blair and the countless others whose lives he touched. His unorthodox approach, bold personality, and groundbreaking techniques revolutionized the film industry. Friedkin’s unique combination of creativity, guidance, and protection shaped Blair’s life, and his impact will be forever remembered through her performances and the enduring legacy of “The Exorcist.” May his soul rest in peace.