William Friedkin, the pioneering American filmmaker renowned for ‘The Exorcist’ and ‘The French Connection,’ passed away on Monday at the age of 87, as confirmed by a family friend to AFP.
William Friedkin, after contending with undisclosed health challenges in the last few years, passed away in Los Angeles, according to Stephen Galloway, a former executive editor at The Hollywood Reporter.
‘He died this morning,’ confirmed Galloway, after speaking with Friedkin’s wife.
He also said that Friedkin had ‘been working until a few weeks ago,’ but ‘had been in declining health,’
Alongside other influential ‘New Hollywood’ directors, Friedkin was instrumental in the radical transformation of the US film industry, challenging the entrenched authority of studio producers.
Together with celebrated filmmakers like Francis Ford Coppola and Martin Scorsese, Friedkin made a formidable entrance onto the cinematic stage in the early 1970s, captivating audiences with the raw cop drama ‘The French Connection.’
Featuring Gene Hackman in a leading role, the film achieved remarkable success, securing five Oscars, including the prestigious awards for best director and best picture.
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In 1973, Friedkin followed up his success with ‘The Exorcist,’ a film that proved to be a massive commercial and critical success, while also drawing significant controversy.
Unfortunately, Friedkin’s career took a downward turn shortly afterwards, largely attributed to the commercial failure of the high-budget film ‘Sorcerer’ in 1977.
Despite not attaining the same levels of success as his earlier works, Friedkin remained dedicated to his directing endeavors, continuing to work in the industry well into his 80s.
Set to mark the end of his directorial journey, ‘The Caine Mutiny Court-Martial,’ starring Kiefer Sutherland, is poised to make its premiere at this year’s Venice Film Festival.
Friedkin is survived by his fourth wife, Sherry Lansing, who previously held the position of Paramount Pictures studio chief, and their two sons.