Considered one of the scariest movies of all time, “The Exorcist” shook audiences around the world when it was released in 1973. The horror masterpiece, directed by William Friedkin, delved into the terrifying world of demonic possession and exorcism. Behind the scenes, however, a series of strange events added an eerie element to the production. We explore the shocking incidents that took place during the filming of “The Exorcist,” which continue to haunt the movie’s legacy to this day.
As the cast and crew embarked on the production of “The Exorcist,” little did they know that they were about to be caught up in a series of bizarre and tragic incidents. Numerous accidents and injuries plagued the set, leaving many concerned about the possibility of a curse. Several key actors suffered injuries during filming, further fueling the superstitions surrounding the production.
One of the most shocking incidents involved actor Jack MacGowran, who played Burke Dennings in the movie. Unfortunately, MacGowran fell ill with influenza and tragically passed away shortly after completing his scenes. This devastating event added a haunting layer to the already eerie atmosphere surrounding “The Exorcist.”
But the horrors on set didn’t end with MacGowran’s untimely death. During the filming of a crucial scene, a fire broke out, completely engulfing the set. The blaze destroyed the room where the possessed girl, Regan, lived, adding an ominous twist to the already dark tale. Though the exact cause of the fire remains unknown, some speculate that it was a result of faulty wiring. Miraculously, no one was harmed in the incident, but the event only deepened the belief in supernatural forces at play.
In an attempt to counteract the misfortunes and bring peace to the set, a priest was brought in on several occasions to bless the production. Bearing the weight of the disturbing story they were portraying, the cast and crew eagerly sought spiritual assistance to counteract the darkness that seemed to surround them.
Despite the various strange occurrences during the filming, “The Exorcist” went on to become a groundbreaking and influential film. Its terrifying portrayal of demonic possession captivated audiences worldwide, cementing its status as a horror classic. While the incidents on set may forever remain shrouded in mystery, they continue to add to the allure and fascination surrounding this iconic movie.
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