Patrick Wilson Stuns Fans with Surprise Appearance at ‘The Conjuring: Last Rites’ Showing in Atlanta
Fans of The Conjuring: Last Rites got a huge surprise at a special screening in Atlanta when Patrick Wilson, who plays Ed Warren in the franchise, appeared in person.
The actor interacted with the audience, asking how many people were new to the series and how many had seen multiple films. “I stopped by because I was shooting nearby, and this is the only venue I’m making an appearance,” Wilson told the crowd, which erupted in cheers at the unexpected visit, according to reports from attendees.
Patrick Wilson surprises fans at a ‘The Conjuring: Last Rites’ showing in Atlanta. pic.twitter.com/XERn59YrBh
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) September 7, 2025
The Conjuring: Last Rites is the ninth installment in The Conjuring Universe. Directed by Michael Chaves and written by Ian Goldberg, Richard Naing, and David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick, the film follows the real-life Smurl haunting.
Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga reprise their roles as paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. The cast also includes Mia Tomlinson and Ben Hardy. The movie was released in the United States on September 5 and has been a major box office success.
According to box office data, The Conjuring: Last Rites has earned $83 million in the U.S. and Canada, and $104 million internationally, for a worldwide total of $187 million. It had set franchise records, with $34.6 million earned on opening day, including $8.5 million in Thursday previews.
The film’s opening weekend was initially projected at $50 million from 3,726 theaters, but after strong first-day numbers, estimates rose to $75 million. The $83 million debut became the franchise’s biggest opening ever and the third-largest for a horror film in history, making Warner Bros. the first studio to have seven consecutive films open above $40 million.
This is real footage from the actual Smurl Family Case. Tickets are on sale now for The Conjuring: Last Rites – Only in Theaters and IMAX September 5. https://t.co/OjnTNnJcef pic.twitter.com/fwR7h4qi1O
— The Conjuring (@TheConjuring) August 20, 2025
The movie also made waves internationally. Its opening day in the Philippines was the second-highest of 2025 and set a new record for a horror film, surpassing Final Destination Bloodlines. Critics gave the film mixed reviews, but audiences have responded strongly, helping push the box office totals past its $55 million production budget.
Patrick Wilson’s surprise visit highlighted the excitement surrounding the franchise. “This is the only screening I’m attending, and I wanted to meet the fans in person,” he said.
His appearance brought a lot of energy and excitement to the Atlanta audience and added a memorable personal touch to the film’s release.
Personally, I think moments like this make a big difference for fans and help build a deeper connection to the series. Seeing a lead actor show up unexpectedly is something people will remember for years. What do you think about Wilson’s surprise appearance? Share your thoughts in the comments.