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Scarlett Johansson is stepping into one of horror's most legendary universes, signing on to star in what producers describe as a "radical new take" on The Exorcist. The upcoming film, directed and written by acclaimed horror filmmaker Mike Flanagan, will introduce an all-new storyline rather than continue the studio's previous 2023 revival attempt, The Exorcist: Believer.
Johansson, fresh off her directorial debut Eleanor the Great and the blockbuster success of Jurassic World Rebirth, is joining the franchise at a moment when Universal and Blumhouse-Atomic Monster are reshaping their approach to the property. The original 1973 classic, directed by William Friedkin and starring Ellen Burstyn and Linda Blair, remains one of the most influential horror films ever made, earning $441 million worldwide and securing 10 Oscar nominations. Its cultural impact has kept the franchise alive across decades, even as modern reboots have struggled to match its prestige.
The new film is being produced by Blumhouse-Atomic Monster alongside longtime rights-holder Morgan Creek. Though plot details remain tightly guarded, the project will be set within the universe of the original film while charting its own path, separate from Believer. Filming is slated to begin in New York City.
Flanagan, known for Doctor Sleep, The Haunting of Hill House, and Midnight Mass, praised Johansson's casting, calling her a performer whose work "always feels grounded and real, from genre films to summer blockbusters." His involvement marks a significant shift in creative direction as Universal continues to explore its $400 million investment in new Exorcist stories.
Universal's renewed collaboration with Johansson comes after the global success of Jurassic World Rebirth, which earned more than $850 million. With over $15.4 billion in worldwide box office earnings across her career, Johansson remains the highest-grossing lead actress of all time.
Producing duties will be shared among Flanagan's Red Room Pictures, Morgan Creek's David Robinson, and Blumhouse-Atomic Monster's Jason Blum and Ryan Turek. Alexandra Magistro joins as executive producer. Representation for Johansson includes CAA, Yorn Levine LLC, and True Public Relations, while Flanagan is represented by WME and Bespoke Publicity.
