William Friedkin, the Oscar-winning director famed for his work on “The French Connection” and “The Exorcist,” passed away at the age of 87. His death was confirmed by his wife, producer, and former studio head Sherry Lansing, in Los Angeles on Monday.
Recognized as a leading member of a new generation of filmmakers in his early career, Friedkin won the best director Oscar for “The French Connection.” The film, based on a true story about the efforts of a maverick NYC police detective to track down a French drug lord, won additional Academy Awards for best picture, screenplay, and film editing. It is renowned for one of the most thrilling chase scenes in cinematic history.
Friedkin followed this success with another blockbuster, “The Exorcist,” based on William Peter Blatty’s best-selling novel. The film, featuring a splendid cast and harrowing scenes of demonic possession, was a box-office sensation and received 10 Oscar nominations, winning two.
Despite his early successes, Friedkin struggled to replicate his extraordinary early achievements in later years. His other film credits include “To Live and Die in L.A.,” “Cruising,” and “Rules of Engagement,” among others, and he directed episodes for TV shows like “The Twilight Zone” and “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation.”
The film industry mourns the loss of a true creative force. Friedkin’s early work left an indelible mark on cinema, setting a high standard for thrillers and horror films that continues to inspire filmmakers today.