Film director William Friedkin, renowned for his contributions to cinema in the 1970s with his iconic movies such as “The French Connection” and “The Exorcist,” passed away on Monday at the age of 87 in Los Angeles. The news of his death was confirmed by his wife, former producer and studio head Sherry Lansing. Friedkin was an esteemed member of a new generation of Hollywood filmmakers, alongside Peter Bogdanovich, Francis Ford Coppola, and Hal Ashby.
“The French Connection,” released in 1971, marked Friedkin’s entry into big-budget filmmaking. Based on Robin Moore’s best-selling novel, the film portrayed the gripping story of two New York City narcotics detectives in pursuit of international heroin dealers. It received critical acclaim, commercial success, and earned Friedkin an Academy Award for directing. The movie was also notable for its intense and thrilling car chase sequence, which has become renowned in cinema history.
Contrary to popular perception, Friedkin humbly considered himself as just another member of the crew. He stated in an interview with The Los Angeles Times in 1989, “I never considered myself the great American anything. Not then and not now. I consider myself just another member of the crew, the highest paid member of the crew.” Despite receiving the prestigious Academy Award, Friedkin believed he hadn’t paid enough dues.
In his next venture, Friedkin took on the adaptation of William Peter Blatty’s best-selling novel, “The Exorcist.” Released in 1973, the film revolves around a young girl, portrayed by Linda Blair, who is believed to be possessed by the devil. It became a box office hit, earning 10 Academy Award nominations, including one for Friedkin as best director.
Throughout his career, Friedkin directed several other notable films such as “Sorcerer” (1977), “To Live and Die in L.A.” (1985), “Bug” (2006), and “Rules of Engagement” (2000).
Born on August 29, 1935, in Chicago, Friedkin’s passion for filmmaking ignited when he watched “Citizen Kane” as a young boy. He began working for WGN-TV immediately after high school and embarked on a career in live television shows and documentaries. Friedkin’s talent was recognized with several awards for his work on “The People vs. Paul Crump” and his directing contributions to “The Alfred Hitchcock Hour.”
Friedkin transitioned to film directing in 1967 with the Sonny-and-Cher musical “Good Times,” followed by “The Birthday Party” (1968), an adaptation of Harold Pinter’s play. He further showcased his versatility by directing the comedy “The Night They Raided Minsky’s” (1968), depicting the story of an innocent Amish girl turned burlesque dancer in 1920s New York City.
In recognition of his profound impact on the industry, Friedkin was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1997. The Walk of Fame producer Ana Martinez expressed her condolences, emphasizing Friedkin’s significant contributions to the movie genre and the lasting legacy he leaves behind. His star is positioned next to his wife Sherry Lansing’s star, who is also a respected film studio executive.
Friedkin was married to newscaster Kelly Lange and actresses Lesley-Anne Down and Jeanne Moreau before settling with his fourth wife, Sherry Lansing. He is survived by Lansing and their two sons.
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