Universal Pictures, Blumhouse, and Atomic Monster are expanding The Exorcist franchise, with major talent on both sides of the camera. Horror visionary Mike Flanagan will write, direct, and produce what is officially described as a “radical new take” on the classic property. Now, Academy Award-nominated actress Scarlett Johansson has signed on to star.
This upcoming Exorcist film will exist within the same continuity as the iconic 1973 original. The studio sees this as a fresh start. They have already confirmed that the film is not a sequel to 2023’s The Exorcist: Believer. Universal originally invested a staggering $400 million in 2021 to acquire the rights to the franchise. However, the launch of Believer was shaky, earning $136 million globally. While it did bring in some at the box office, it turned out to be a disappointment for critics and fans alike.
Flanagan, known for his work in the genre, especially his Stephen King adaptations, directed Doctor Sleep and The Life of Chuck. He expressed his excitement for Johansson’s addition to the cast.
“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.”
BAFTA award-winning actress Scarlett Johansson is no stranger to action. She starred as Black Widow in the Avengers movies. She also recently led Jurassic World: Rebirth. The actress, producer, and director made her directorial debut with Eleanor the Great, which premiered at the 78th Cannes Film Festival and had its North American premiere at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival. Johansson received her first two Academy Award nominations, for Best Actress and Best Supporting Actress, for her performances in Noah Baumbach’s Marriage Story and Taika Waititi’s Jojo Rabbit, becoming the twelfth performer to be nominated for two Oscars in the same year.
Plot specifics and additional cast members remain tightly under wraps, fueling speculation about how Flanagan will reinvent the possession classic. We do know that production is set in New York City.
This high-profile pairing of Flanagan and Johansson signals Universal and Blumhouse’s intent to deliver a quality horror film.
One that fans would expect from a revitalized Exorcist saga.
