Ellen Burstyn, an esteemed actress renowned for her role in the classic horror film, The Exorcist, has recently shared her candid thoughts regarding the continuing expansion of the franchise. Speaking to Variety, the 93-year-old performer discussed her latest project, her recently published book entitled *Poetry Says It Better*, and her perspective on the upcoming film, *The Exorcist: Martyrs*, scheduled for release on 12 March 2027.
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Burstyn first gained fame for her portrayal of Chris MacNeil in the original *The Exorcist*, a performance that earned her an Academy Award nomination. Despite her notable return in the 2023 sequel, *The Exorcist: Believer*, Burstyn’s initial reaction to the announcement of yet another instalment was one of concern. “Isn’t there enough already of the Exorcist thing? It’s enough already,” she remarked, highlighting her weariness with the franchise’s ongoing resurgence.
*The Exorcist: Martyrs*, directed by Mike Flanagan, presents a new storyline focusing on a New York City homicide detective, Julie Miller, portrayed by Scarlett Johansson. The narrative involves Miller apprehending a serial killer, “Father Sunday,” played by John Leguizamo, and grappling with the haunting aftermath of witnessing his execution. Despite the film’s fresh approach, Burstyn seems sceptical about the necessity of yet another layer to the series’ legacy.
Reflecting on her own journey within the franchise, Burstyn explained how she was initially hesitant to reprise her iconic role for *The Exorcist: Believer*. The director, David Gordon Green, had to persuade her to return. He expressed that it was important to him to acknowledge the historical significance of the franchise, particularly Burstyn’s contribution. He approached her with a sense of respect and sincerity, recognising the impact of her performance and its legacy.
Their discussions touched upon a wide array of topics, which led Burstyn to eventually agree to take on the role once again. Green noted that when she read the script, she found parallels between the character’s journey and her own experiences since the original film’s success. This deep connection prompted her decision to step back into the shoes of Chris MacNeil.
Burstyn further elaborated on her negotiation for her return in an interview with *The Hollywood Reporter*, revealing that financial incentives alone were initially not enough to persuade her. Even after the offer was doubled, her considerations were more profound. She recounted feeling as if she was being tempted, quipping, “I feel like the devil is asking my price.”
Ultimately, Burstyn realised that her motivations extended beyond personal gain. She expressed a desire to establish a scholarship programme for talented students at Pace University’s master’s degree programme in acting. After communicating this requirement back to the producers, she was successful in obtaining the commitments she sought.
Throughout her career, Burstyn has consistently demonstrated a commitment to using her success for the benefit of others, and her recent experience with the *Exorcist* franchise embodies this ethos. As she continues to navigate her illustrious career, the actress’s wise words and insights suggest a thoughtful engagement with the artistic contributions she has made and their impact on society.
As *The Exorcist* franchise marches on into new narratives and explorations of the horror genre, Burstyn’s reflections serve as a reminder of the importance of both legacy and accountability within the film industry. Her candidness shines a light on the evolution of trends in cinema, especially concerning iconic characters and the franchise itself, prompting viewers to consider the relevance and necessity of remakes and sequels in contemporary storytelling.
As the discussions surrounding this well-known horror series unfold, fans of Burstyn and *The Exorcist* can expect further intriguing developments, particularly as the new film approaches its release date. For now, the actress’s willingness to engage in meaningful dialogues around her legacy, coupled with her drive to support the next generation of artists, remains at the forefront of her enduring presence in the film industry.