Linda Blair pays heartwarming tribute to William Friedkin
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Linda Blair pays heartwarming tribute to William Friedkin

The actress calls William Friedkin her friend and protector
The actress calls William Friedkin her friend and protector

8 Aug - Linda Blair, who came to prominence after playing the character Regan MacNeil in William Friedkin's 1973 movie, "The Exorcist", recently took to social media to pay tribute to the filmmaker, who passed away recently.

On 8 August, the actress shared several photos of her time with the director, whom she lovingly called "Billy", and wrote, "Like Sidney Poitier's famous movie 'To Sir with Love', how do you put into words appreciation to the person that changed your life forever, along with the world?"

"Billy Friedken was a game changer, thought outside the box, was a genius with an incredibly bold personality and extraordinary imagery that electrified colleagues and moviegoers alike and remained a true maverick throughout his career in the film industry.



William Friedkin directed Linda Blair in "The Exorcist" when she was 13 years old
William Friedkin directed Linda Blair in "The Exorcist" when she was 13 years old
Blair stated that while every actor wanted to work with him, her story might be the most poignant, being only 13 when he took her on as one of the leads of the horror flick.

"His directing came with demanding guidance, commitment and strict work ethic. His creative licensing with my performance, always thought provoking and precise with his "on point" direction for my performance as Regan. Pushing envelopes with ground breaking special effects to ensure my performance was nothing less than shocking and unforgettable.

"He fiercely protected me from the maddening crowds that reared their ugly heads back in the day of the movie's release. He understood my need to remain grounded in nature, my love for animals, and giving me my first prize horse which I named "Best Director" in his honour. He supported my continued love for animals and my foundation Linda Blair Worldheart, to change the world for the animals."

Blair stressed that Friedkin was not only her director, he was also her friend and protector and that she was deeply saddened by the news of his passing.

"RIP my dear friend...love, respect and deepest condolences to Sherry, Cedric and Jack," she added, referring to Friedkin's wife and two children.
The two had a special bond
The two had a special bond



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