Scarlett Johansson has been announced as the lead in director Mike Flanagan’s upcoming reimagining of The Exorcist, set to be produced by Blumhouse-Atomic Monster and Morgan Creek Entertainment for Universal Pictures. The production, highlighting the Scarlett Johansson Exorcist lead role, will begin filming in New York City, signaling a bold new direction for the iconic horror franchise.
Scarlett Johansson Joins Flanagan’s Exorcist Universe
Known for her accolades across both stage and screen, Scarlett Johansson brings an impressive track record to Flanagan’s new project. Johansson’s recent work includes her directorial debut Eleanor the Great, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and will have its North American premiere at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival. Her acting credits span major titles such as Black Widow, Lost in Translation, Jurassic World Rebirth, and Asteroid City, reflecting her versatility and global appeal.
Her achievements include two Oscar nominations in a single year, for Marriage Story (Best Actress) and Jojo Rabbit (Best Supporting Actress), matching a record held by only twelve performers. Johansson’s career also features acclaimed performances in Avengers: Endgame, Lucy, Under the Skin, and Her. She is represented by key agencies such as CAA, Yorn Levine LLC, and True Public Relations.
Director Mike Flanagan’s Vision for the Franchise
Mike Flanagan, recognized for his innovative storytelling in the horror genre, will write, direct, and produce the new Exorcist installment via his Red Room Pictures banner. Flanagan’s recent feature, The Life of Chuck, won the People’s Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival and continues to draw awards attention. His work adapting Stephen King’s debut novel Carrie for Amazon MGM Studios and creating series like Midnight Mass and The Haunting of Hill House has made him a standout filmmaker in suspense and supernatural drama. In describing Johansson’s involvement, Flanagan stated:
“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 is represented by WME, VanderKloot Law, and Bespoke Publicity.
A Fresh Story Within The Exorcist World
Rather than building on last year’s The Exorcist: Believer, this new film will introduce an original narrative set within The Exorcist universe. The production is backed by Blumhouse-Atomic Monster and Morgan Creek Entertainment, with Alexandra Magistro serving as executive producer for Red Room Pictures. David Robinson leads production for Morgan Creek, with Jason Blum and Ryan Turek contributing as producer and executive producer for Blumhouse-Atomic Monster.
The collaboration between Johansson, celebrated for her range in both independent works and summer blockbusters, and Flanagan, a director renowned for innovative horror, signals a dynamic pairing that aims to revitalize the franchise while attracting established fans and a new generation of viewers.
Anticipation Builds for a New Chapter in Horror
Set in New York, this project is poised to deliver a compelling addition to The Exorcist legacy, leveraging both Johansson’s broad appeal and Flanagan’s creative vision. With the film diverging from recent sequels and promising an entirely original storyline, audiences are primed for a unique cinematic experience that could redefine expectations for supernatural thrillers. As production commences, the collaboration between notable talents such as Johansson, Flanagan, Jason Blum, and David Robinson is generating considerable anticipation throughout the industry and among fans of the genre.
