Renowned US director William Friedkin passed away in Los Angeles on Monday, August 7. Friedkin will be forever remembered for his Oscar-winning film “The Exorcist” in 1973, which remains one of the most controversial horror films of all time. The film, which tells the story of a 12-year-old girl believed to be possessed by the devil, shocked audiences with its provocative scenes and sparked a global debate about the occult in the Catholic Church. Despite its controversy,
“The Exorcist” received critical acclaim and was nominated for 10 Oscars, winning two. Friedkin’s career began to flourish in Hollywood with his 1971 thriller “The French Connection,” which won several Oscars, including Best Director and Best Picture. However, after a series of flops, including “Sorcerer” in 1977 and “Cruising” in 1980, Friedkin experienced a decline in his career. He later made a comeback with the 2011 film “Killer Joe” and in 2018, he directed the documentary “The Devil and Father Amorth,” which explores the themes of “The Exorcist.” Friedkin was married four times, including to renowned French actress Jeanne Moreau.
