Scarlett Johansson is set to lead the next Exorcist movie, a bold new vision from filmmaker Mike Flanagan that promises to reinvent one of horror’s most iconic franchises.
The project, produced by Universal and Blumhouse-Atomic Monster, has been described as a “radical new take” on The Exorcist universe. Flanagan — known for Doctor Sleep and The Life of Chuck — will write, direct, and produce the upcoming installment, which is currently in pre-production and scheduled to film in New York City.
“Scarlett is a brilliant actress whose captivating performances always feel grounded and real,” Flanagan said in a statement. “From genre films to summer blockbusters, I couldn’t be happier to have her join this Exorcist film.”
A New Chapter in Horror
The 1973 original Exorcist, directed by William Friedkin, remains one of cinema’s greatest horror achievements. Starring Ellen Burstyn and Linda Blair, it grossed over $441 million worldwide and earned 10 Academy Award nominations, cementing its place in pop culture.
Universal secured the rights for a new Exorcist trilogy in 2021 for an astonishing $400 million deal. However, its first reboot attempt — 2023’s The Exorcist: Believer — underperformed despite earning $136 million globally and bringing back Burstyn’s character, Chris MacNeil.
The upcoming film, though set within the same universe as the 1973 classic, is not a sequel to Believer. Instead, it will explore new characters and fresh mythology tied to the broader spiritual horror legacy of the franchise.
Johansson’s Rising Momentum
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This marks Johansson’s latest collaboration with Universal after the blockbuster success of Jurassic World Rebirth, which generated $868 million globally this summer. The Oscar-nominated actress (Marriage Story, Jojo Rabbit) also made her directorial debut earlier this year with Eleanor the Great, a heartfelt dramedy starring June Squibb that premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival.
What’s Next
Flanagan’s vision for The Exorcist aims to balance psychological depth with chilling suspense — a trademark of his horror storytelling. While the cast and story details remain under wraps, insiders describe the project as a “character-driven reimagining” rather than a traditional possession film.
Production is expected to begin in early 2026, with release details to follow later next year.
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