Scarlett Johansson (41) Seen Without Makeup on the Set of ‘The Exorcist’ in NYC
The streets of New York City recently became the backdrop for a chilling new chapter in cinematic horror. Scarlett Johansson was spotted filming scenes for the upcoming reboot of The Exorcist alongside her co-star Chiwetel Ejiofor this past Tuesday.
The 41-year-old actress appeared focused and natural, opting for a makeup-free look while working under the direction of acclaimed filmmaker Mike Flanagan. Observers noted the serious tone of the production as the actors engaged in a high-tension dialogue near a building restricted by police tape.
Johansson was dressed in practical attire for the cool afternoon, wearing a red button-down shirt paired with denim jeans and a dark coat. Ejiofor, 48, complemented the somber aesthetic of the scene in a structured gray overcoat and matching trousers.
Scarlett Johansson filming a scene for 'The Exorcist'
— Scarlett Johansson Updates (@ScarlettJUpdate) March 18, 2026
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The production transformed the city block into a high-stakes crime scene, complete with numerous extras dressed as law enforcement officers. This specific sequence highlighted the grounded, dramatic nature of the story, which moves away from traditional horror tropes in favor of character-driven suspense.
In this iteration of the franchise, Johansson takes on the role of a mother, appearing on screen with young actor Jacobi Jupe, who plays her son. The casting has generated significant buzz since the project was first announced late last year.
Makeup-free Scarlett Johansson spotted on set of new ‘The Exorcist’ film in NYC https://t.co/OwbSISAZLB pic.twitter.com/3q4FSYl0yf
— Page Six (@PageSix) March 18, 2026
Director Mike Flanagan expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration in a formal announcement shared this past November. “Scarlett is a brilliant actress whose captivating performances always feel grounded and real, from genre films to summer blockbusters,” he remarked at the time.
Flanagan further emphasized the importance of her presence in this specific reimagining of the classic property. “I couldn’t be happier to have her join this ‘Exorcist’ film,” the director stated regarding his leading lady.
Scheduled for a theatrical debut in March 2027, the film boasts an impressive ensemble of veteran actors known for their work in the thriller genre. Joining the lead duo are Carla Gugino, Diane Lane, John Leguizamo, and Hamish Linklater.
While the movie exists within the broader universe established by the 1973 original, it aims to forge a completely independent path. It will feature a fresh narrative arc and is not intended to serve as a follow-up to the 2023 release, The Exorcist: Believer.
The legacy of the franchise remains a high bar for the new production team to reach, given the cultural impact of the first film. Directed by William Friedkin, the 1973 masterpiece earned two Academy Awards and has seen a lifetime gross of approximately $441 million.
That original story focused on the desperate efforts of Chris MacNeil, played by Ellen Burstyn, to save her daughter, Regan. The haunting performance by Linda Blair as the possessed child remains one of the most iconic portrayals in the history of cinema.
Scarlett Johansson has stayed exceptionally busy leading up to this horror debut, having recently finished work on the blockbuster Jurassic World Rebirth. She also lent her voice to the animated hit Transformers One and continues to develop projects through her production company, These Pictures.
Chiwetel Ejiofor has also maintained a prolific schedule, recently appearing in the superhero epic Venom: The Last Dance. His upcoming slate includes several prestige dramas and a return to the director’s chair for his next independent feature.
Director Mike Flanagan is widely regarded as a modern master of the genre, following the success of his Netflix series, The Haunting of Hill House. His involvement suggests a shift toward psychological depth and atmosphere rather than simple jump scares.
The film is being produced by Blumhouse and Morgan Creek, two powerhouses in the industry that are betting on the enduring power of the Exorcist name. Fans are eager to see how this new creative team honors the past while delivering something entirely original for contemporary audiences.
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