R.I.P. William Friedkin: ‘The Exorcist’ & ‘French Connection Filmmaker Has Passed Away

The iconic filmmaker, William Friedkin, has passed away at the age of 87.

One of the famous directors to spawn from the “New Hollywood” era of film is probably best known for his work on the legendary horror film, “The Exorcist.” That film was nominated for 10 Oscars after its release, including Best Director. Friedkin also is known for the film that was released right before “The Exorcist,” 1971’s “The French Connection,” starring Gene Hackman. That film would go on to earn eight Oscar nominations, taking home trophies for Best Picture and Best Director, among others. 

READ MORE: William Friedkin Talks Slapping An ‘Exorcist’ Priest & Making Gene Hackman Constantly Angry On ‘The French Connection’ [Flashback]

Even though those might be the two films Friedkin will be remembered for most, he was the filmmaker behind a number of high-profile films including “Sorcerer,” “Cruising,” “To Live and Die in L.A.,” and “Blue Chips.” His most recent films include 2006’s “Bug” and 2011’s “Killer Joe.” 

Friedkin actually has one more film that is yet to be released, the upcoming drama “The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial.” That film was recently selected to debut at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival this September. The film stars Kiefer Sutherland, Jason Clarke, Jake Lacy, Monica Raymund, and Lance Reddick and is an adaptation of Herman Wouk’s acclaimed 1953 play about a naval officer standing trial. 

Interestingly, this year will also see renewed interest in 1973’s “The Exorcist.” Obviously, the 50th anniversary of the film’s release is a big deal, but this year marks the release of “The Exorcist: Believer,” which is Blumhouse’s upcoming sequel to the original film that will once again star Ellen Burstyn. 

If you want to hear more about Friedkin, you can hear this great interview from the WTF Podcast that he conducted back in 2016: