While Ellen Burstyn is the heart of the “Exorcist” franchise, it’s Linda Blair who is the face of the series, as it’s Regan, who is possessed by the nefarious demon Pazazu. Blair was widely lauded for her challenging and transformative performance as the tormented child. Despite only being in her early teens, Blair was nominated for a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for her career-defining role.
Following the release of “The Exorcist,” Blair became a powerhouse in several horror films, including “Hell Night” and the horror-comedy sort of “Exorcist” spoof “Repossessed.” To date, Blair has reprised her role as the possessed Regan in three “Exorcist” films, including a brief turn in the recent “Believer.” While speaking with NBC about the sequel, Blair revealed that her cameo was a last-minute decision that was filmed in one day. Blair was initially brought on board as an advisor for the picture, a role she was initially hesitant to take on. “[They said]: ‘We understand you don’t really want to be part of it, but we’d love your blessing.’ And I’m like, ‘Absolutely,'” Blair said, adding that she “helped do some story background, change some things up.”
Recognized as one of the greatest scream queens of all time, Blair uses her platform to boost animal rights advocacy through programs like the Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation. While she’s boasted occasional roles over the last few years, Blair has instead made a concentrated effort to follow her passions. “I kind of unknowingly left the business because I gave my word to the animals,” she told the outlet. “I miss working, but I won’t leave my animal friends […] I am unable to stop trying to help and change the laws and stop the unnecessary euthanasia and pet overpopulation.”
