Scarlett Johansson has been confirmed as the lead in Mike Flanagan’s upcoming film within The Exorcist franchise, with this major shift aiming to revitalize the series after past missteps. The addition of Johansson brings a new direction to the Scarlett Johansson Exorcist Movie, as Universal and Blumhouse seek to reverse course following the difficulties faced by their last reboot.
New Direction for The Exorcist Franchise with Johansson’s Casting
According to Deadline, Johansson will play the central role in a new Exorcist story, which stands apart from the previous film The Exorcist: Believer. The decision comes as the studio responds to both the critical and commercial underperformance of Believer, which grossed only $65.5 million in the United States and Canada and $136.2 million worldwide, a stark contrast after Universal acquired franchise rights for $400 million.
Director Mike Flanagan expressed strong confidence in Johansson’s abilities, emphasizing how her grounded work fits his vision for the project.
“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,”
said Flanagan.
Flanagan Takes Creative Control after Previous Setbacks
The upcoming project represents a full reset for the storied franchise under Flanagan, after Universal and Blumhouse canceled The Exorcist: Deceiver and parted ways with former director David Gordon Green. This move follows the poor reception to Believer, which was rated just 22% by critics on Rotten Tomatoes, with audience scores reaching 59%.
Flanagan will oversee the film as writer, director, and producer, working through his Red Room Pictures banner. Production support includes teams from Blumhouse-Atomic Monster, Morgan Creek, and Universal. Key producers joining the effort are Jason Blum, Ryan Turek, Trevor Macy, and David Robinson, as the studio endeavors to restore faith in the franchise among both critics and audiences.
The rebooted Exorcist film, featuring Johansson in the lead, is anticipated to redefine the series’ narrative direction and strength, signaling a strategic shift for Universal, Blumhouse, and their partners.
