William Friedkin, 'The Exorcist' and 'The French Connection' director, dies at 87

William Friedkin, the director of films such as "The Exorcist" and "The French Connection," has passed away at the age of 87.

William Friedkin, a legendary filmmaker known for his suspenseful films and his role in the New Hollywood movement of the 1970s, has passed away at the age of 87. Friedkin, who directed iconic films such as "The Exorcist" and "The French Connection," died on Monday in Los Angeles, according to family friend Stephen Galloway.

Friedkin was widely respected for his ability to keep audiences on the edge of their seats with his scream-inducing horror classics and fast-paced crime dramas. "The French Connection," starring Gene Hackman and Roy Scheider, won five Oscars in 1972, including acting and directing awards for Hackman and Friedkin, respectively, as well as the coveted best picture award.

Another one of Friedkin's smash hits was "The Exorcist," which grossed nearly $200 million in 1973 and received 10 Oscar nominations, including another directing nomination for Friedkin. The film has since gained a significant cult following and has spawned spinoffs and sequels.

Despite his immense success, Friedkin never aimed to be one of the greats. In a 1989 interview, he expressed his love for the process of making films and the challenges that come with it. He believed that focusing on being the "Great American filmmaker" would only lead to disappointment. Instead, Friedkin cherished the memories and experiences he gained from each of his films, regardless of their commercial success.

Friedkin's career in entertainment began in the 1950s when he worked in the mailroom at WGN, a Chicago TV station. He quickly climbed the ranks and eventually made a name for himself as a director. He also gained recognition for his documentaries, including "The People vs. Paul Crump," which won first place at the Cannes film festival in 1962.

In the late '60s, Friedkin transitioned to the big screen, directing films such as "Good Times," "The Night they Raided Minsky's," and "The Boys in the Band." However, it wasn't until 1971's "The French Connection" that Friedkin received his first Oscar recognition. The film, with its scandalous crimes and intense car chase scenes, captivated audiences and critics alike. Friedkin's fascination with criminal behavior and his desire to uncover the truth behind crimes were evident in his work.

Friedkin continued to make an impact in the film industry with his subsequent films, including "To Live and Die in L.A.," a critically acclaimed political drama, and various other projects that explored crime and tortured characters. His directorial vision was often dark and focused, which sometimes led to disagreements with cast members. However, many actors praised Friedkin for his respect and freedom he gave them to develop their characters.

Throughout his career, Friedkin also ventured into other forms of entertainment, such as directing operas and stage productions. He received an Emmy nomination for his adaptation of "12 Angry Men" and continued to explore moral quandaries and supernatural phenomena in his later works.

Born in Chicago in 1935, Friedkin grew up in a close-knit family. Despite not having a background in film or a college education, he found success in the industry through a combination of ambition, luck, and the grace of God. His passion for filmmaking aligned with the interests of the general public, and he managed to carve out a successful career in the ever-changing world of cinema.

William Friedkin's impact on the film industry will be remembered for years to come. His ability to create suspenseful and thought-provoking films, his dedication to his craft, and his willingness to push boundaries have solidified his status as a master of suspense and a true icon of the New Hollywood movement.

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