Jacobi Jupe Joins Scarlett Johansson in ‘The Exorcist’ Remake

A young breakout performer is set to face demonic forces alongside a major Hollywood star in a highly anticipated horror project. Jacobi Jupe has been cast opposite Scarlett Johansson in Mike Flanagan’s new adaptation of ‘The Exorcist’. The 12-year-old British actor continues his swift rise with this high-profile role in the Blumhouse and Morgan Creek production.

The announcement emerged through industry reports on Tuesday. Jupe currently stars in the West End stage production ‘Hamnet’, based on Maggie O’Farrell’s novel. He balances theatrical commitments with the upcoming film, directed by Flanagan from his own screenplay.

Johansson, a two-time Oscar nominee known for ‘Marriage Story’ and ‘Jojo Rabbit’, leads the cast in her return to genre work. Flanagan, creator of ‘The Haunting of Hill House’ and director of ‘Doctor Sleep’, reimagines William Peter Blatty’s original novel as a standalone feature.

Jupe gained attention for roles in Disney’s ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’ and the HBO series ‘The Last of Us’. His performance in the latter earned critical praise for emotional depth beyond his years. The young actor trained at drama schools prior to professional bookings.

The original 1973 ‘The Exorcist’, directed by William Friedkin, received 10 Academy Award nominations and won two. It grossed over $441 million worldwide, adjusted for inflation placing it among top horror earners. Flanagan’s version incorporates modern storytelling while respecting source elements.

Universal Pictures distributes the theatrical release, with production slated to begin soon. Supporting cast remains undisclosed as pre-production advances. The project follows Flanagan’s previous Netflix collaborations with Johansson.

Jupe’s agents confirmed the casting to outlets including The Hollywood Reporter. He joins a lineage of child actors tackling intense horror material, following Linda Blair’s iconic turn in the 1973 film.

Flanagan described his approach as a radical reinterpretation in prior statements. The film targets mature audiences with psychological and supernatural themes. Industry anticipation builds amid renewed possession genre interest.

This pairing unites Jupe’s emerging talent with Johansson’s established presence. She maintains selective roles across blockbuster and prestige projects. Jupe’s schedule accommodates the commitment alongside ongoing stage duties.

The adaptation preserves narrative secrecy through limited marketing. Universal positions it for a prime release window. Casting emphasizes intergenerational dynamics central to the story.

Blumhouse produces alongside Morgan Creek, known for the original franchise. Flanagan handles writing and directing duties. The team draws from extensive research into exorcism lore and psychological impacts.

Jupe’s involvement highlights Hollywood’s investment in young performers for demanding roles. Johansson previously voiced characters in animated features and starred in Marvel entries. The project represents a pivotal step in Jupe’s screen career.

Have something to add? Let us know in the comments below!