Chiwetel Ejiofor joins the cast of The Exorcist
A star from "The Matrix" will also appear in the film.
"The Exorcist" is back! "The Haunting of Hill House" director Mike Flanagan is set to direct a new film in the iconic horror series. Alongside Scarlett Johansson, Chiwetel Ejiofor is now also part of the cast.
Ejiofor previously worked with Flanagan on "The Life of Chuck". According to The Hollywood Reporter, the actor will take on the role of a former prisoner who later becomes a priest. But that's not all: according to Variety magazine, Laurence Fishburne is also set to appear in the film. However, nothing is yet known about his role.
Although the upcoming film is set in the well-known "Exorcist" cosmos, it is not intended to be a direct sequel. Instead, the intention is to tell an independent story. Originally, a trilogy was to be created under the direction of David Gordon Green. After all, he also successfully revived the "Halloween" series. However, after the disappointing reactions to "The Exorcist: Believer", the planned film series was scrapped. Filming will start next year in New York. "The Exorcist" will then be released on March 12, 2027.
Chiwetel Ejiofor: The most formative films of an extraordinary actor
Chiwetel Ejiofor has been one of the most impressive character actors in international cinema for many years. His roles are often emotionally complex, morally challenging and historically or socially relevant. Whether independent drama, science fiction or blockbuster – Ejiofor impresses with his intensity, presence and versatility.
The international breakthrough with 12 Years a Slave
The turning point in Ejiofor's career came in 2013 with "12 Years a Slave", directed by Steve McQueen. In the lead role of Solomon Northup, a free African-American who is kidnapped and forced into slavery, Ejiofor delivered a deeply harrowing performance. The film won the Oscar for Best Picture and made the actor famous worldwide. His performance was recognized with numerous awards and an Oscar nomination for Best Actor in a Leading Role and is considered one of the most impressive performances of the 2010s.
Dystopian depth in Children of Men
In Alfonso Cuarón's dystopian science fiction drama "Children of Men" (2006), Ejiofor took on the role of activist Luke. In a world without offspring, his character embodies the radical political resistance that vacillates between hope and fanaticism. Although it is a supporting role, Ejiofor's performance is memorable and makes a decisive contribution to the dark, socially critical atmosphere of the film.
Disaster cinema with depth: 2012
Roland Emmerich's "2012" (2009) was Ejiofor's first appearance in a major disaster blockbuster. As idealistic scientist Dr. Adrian Helmsley, he tries to warn governments of the impending end of the world. Despite the spectacular action setting, Ejiofor lends his character credibility and emotional seriousness. The film made him known to a worldwide audience and proved that he can also hold his own in large-scale commercial productions.
Moral conflicts in space: The Martian
In Ridley Scott's science fiction hit "The Martian" (2015), Ejiofor plays NASA Director Vincent Kapoor. As a decision-maker, his character is caught between political pressure, scientific responsibility and human solidarity. Ejiofor convinces with calm authority and moral clarity and gives the ensemble film additional emotional depth. The film was a worldwide success and was nominated several times for an Oscar.
In blockbuster cinema: Doctor Strange
Chiwetel Ejiofor is also successful in the mainstream. In the Marvel film "Doctor Strange" (2016) and its sequel, he plays the magician Karl Mordo. As the ideologically strict antagonist of the title hero, Ejiofor brings depth and seriousness to the superhero genre. His character's moral conflict clearly sets him apart from classic comic book antagonists and makes him one of the more complex characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Voice and tragedy in The Lion King
In 2019, Ejiofor lent his voice to the antagonist Scar in the Disney remake of "The Lion King". His interpretation lent the character a new, dark seriousness and additional emotional depth. The film was a worldwide box office success and also showed Ejiofor's versatility in the field of dubbing and animated films.
Dark comic universe: Venom: The Last Dance
With "Venom: The Last Dance" (2024), Ejiofor expands his presence in the comic book film genre. In the third part of the "Venom" series, he takes on a central role within the dark Marvel antihero universe. Once again, he proves that he can endow characters with gravitas and depth even in effects-heavy franchise films.
An actor with extraordinary range
Chiwetel Ejiofor has established himself as one of the most important actors of his generation with an impressive range of films. His ability to switch between heavy dramas, political material and big blockbusters makes him a force to be reckoned with in modern cinema – and bodes well for upcoming projects.
