Summary:
- Mike Flanagan in talks to helm new Exorcist chapter after David Gordon Green’s departure.
- Limited to a single movie; continuation details unclear; Blumhouse and Universal silent.
- Exorcist: Believer underperformed; sequel delayed; Flanagan’s horror expertise makes him a strong candidate.
Horror maestro Mike Flanagan is in talks to shepherd a new chapter in the iconic Exorcist franchise, according to Deadline. This news comes after David Gordon Green’s departure from the project earlier this year.
Blumhouse and Universal Pictures, who acquired the rights to The Exorcist in 2021, are tight-lipped about the development. If negotiations are successful, Flanagan will take the reins from Green, who directed the first installment of the planned reboot trilogy, The Exorcist: Believer.
While the initial plan involved at least three films, Flanagan’s involvement is currently limited to a single movie. Details about a potential continuation remain unclear.
The Exorcist: Believer, starring Leslie Odom Jr. and franchise mainstay Ellen Burstyn, failed to meet expectations at the box office, grossing a total of $136.2 million worldwide. Following Green’s exit, the sequel, The Exorcist: Deceiver, was pushed back from its April 2025 release date.
Flanagan is a well-respected figure in the horror genre. He recently directed the Stephen King adaptation The Life of Chuck, and has previously tackled King’s works in Doctor Sleep and Gerald’s Game. His other notable projects include Oculus, Ouija: Origin of Evil, and the Netflix series The Haunting of Hill House, The Haunting of Bly Manor, and The Midnight Club.
Green’s departure left a void in the director’s chair. With his experience and established reputation in the horror genre, Mike Flanagan appears to be a strong contender to take over the Exorcist franchise. Negotiations are ongoing, so stay tuned for further updates.