Universal has finally locked a date for its bold new take on The Exorcist, and it’s shaping up to be one of the studio’s biggest horror bets in years. The film — described as a “radical redo” of the iconic franchise — will hit theatres on March 12, 2027, staking a prime spring-break release slot.
Originally slated for March 13, 2026, the project was quietly pulled from the calendar last year, sparking questions about its direction. Now, with a firm date in place, Universal is signaling renewed confidence in the reboot’s creative vision.
A Clean Break From the Franchise’s Recent Past
This new Exorcist is being written, directed, and produced by Mike Flanagan, whose track record has made him one of the most trusted names in modern horror. Importantly, the film is not connected to previous entries — including 2023’s The Exorcist: Believer — and will instead tell a completely original story.
That creative reset appears intentional. While Believer earned $65.5 million in North America and $136.2 million worldwide, the mixed response pushed the franchise toward reinvention rather than continuation.
Scarlett Johansson Leads the New Vision
Adding serious star power to the reboot is Scarlett Johansson, who headlines the cast. She’s joined by Jacobi Jupe, following his recent work in Hamnet. Casting Johansson immediately elevated the project from “horror reboot” to event film, especially with Flanagan’s reputation for character-driven storytelling.
Blumhouse officially confirmed Flanagan’s involvement back in May 2024, following his acclaimed work on The Fall of the House of Usher, Midnight Mass, The Haunting of Hill House, and films like Doctor Sleep and The Life of Chuck.
Strong Studio Backing and a Clear Release Window
The film is being produced by Blumhouse Productions, Atomic Monster, and Morgan Creek Entertainment, in association with Red Room Pictures. Producers include Jason Blum, David Robinson, and Flanagan himself, with Alexandra Magistro and Ryan Turek serving as executive producers.
Universal has cleared the runway for the release. The only other film currently dated for March 12, 2027 is Sony’s animated Buds, giving The Exorcist near-total control of the adult horror audience that weekend.
What This Means for the Franchise
Rather than leaning on nostalgia or legacy characters, this reboot is positioning itself as a fresh horror statement, untethered from past continuity. That approach aligns perfectly with Flanagan’s strengths — slow-burn dread, emotional depth, and psychologically heavy storytelling.
For Universal and Blumhouse, this isn’t just another sequel. It’s a full-scale reintroduction of one of horror’s most powerful titles, rebuilt for a new generation.
Final Words
With Mike Flanagan at the helm and Scarlett Johansson leading the cast, The Exorcist reboot feels less like a revival and more like a reinvention. The long delay may have tested patience, but the newly announced March 2027 release suggests Universal is playing the long game — and aiming to get it right this time.
