Laurence Fishburne joins The Exorcist cast for 2027 reboot. [Image Source: GIZMODO]
Laurence Fishburne has officially joined the cast of the upcoming Exorcist movie, set for release in March 2027. This project, directed by Mike Flanagan, features a fresh and bold take on the classic horror story, continuing the legacy of the original 1973 film within the same universe.
Key Cast Members and Their Roles
The 64-year-old actor, known for his role in The Matrix, will appear alongside previously announced stars Scarlett Johansson, Diane Lane, and Chiwetel Ejiofor. While Fishburne’s character details remain undisclosed, Ejiofor is confirmed to portray an ex-convict who becomes a priest. Johansson will take on the role of the mother of a possessed child, played by Jacobi Jupe, best known for his work in Hamnet.
Director Mike Flanagan’s Vision for the Franchise
Mike Flanagan, who took over the franchise in May 2024, aims to deliver a terrifying and innovative entry that respects the original’s universe without acting as a remake. The 1973 Exorcist, famous for its ten Oscar nominations and adaptation of William Peter Blatty’s novel, focused on a young girl’s battle with demonic possession and the priests who fought to save her. Flanagan’s version promises a refreshed narrative with new characters.
Flanagan expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying,
“The Exorcist is one of the reasons I became a filmmaker, and it is an honour to have the chance to try something fresh, bold, and terrifying within its universe.”
He added about working with the production team,
Image of: Laurence Fishburne
“Reuniting with my friends at Blumhouse, with whom I’ve made some of my favourite pieces of work, only makes this more exciting.”
Regarding Johansson’s involvement, he said,
“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.”
Production Details and Previous Franchise Attempts
The film is currently being produced in New York City and is expected to reach theaters in March 2027. Initially, David Gordon Green was attached to direct a new trilogy within the franchise, but following the poor reception and modest box office performance of The Exorcist: Believer in 2023, Green was dismissed. Flanagan’s commitment to finishing his upcoming Carrie TV adaptation delayed the new film’s production timeline.
Flanagan addressed the timeline on Tumblr, stating,
“Production hasn’t started, we need to finish Carrie first. No way it’s coming out next March. Nothing to worry about though.”
Anticipated Impact of the New Exorcist Entry
This new Exorcist film aims to reinvigorate the franchise with a story that respects its origins while introducing fresh perspectives. With a high-profile cast including Laurence Fishburne, Scarlett Johansson, Diane Lane, and Chiwetel Ejiofor, the film is poised to attract both fans of the original and new audiences. As production moves forward, viewers can expect a cinematic experience that balances horror with richly drawn characters under Flanagan’s direction.
