Exorcist director William Friedkin hailed as Linda Blair's 'protector'

Linda Blair has paid tribute to The Exorcist director William Friedkin, who passed away this week.

In 1973, the pair collaborated on what would become the most influential horror movie of all time, the aforementioned Exorcist. Blair played the character of Regan O'Neill, who is possessed by a demon, forcing two priests to intervene to try and save the young girl.

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At the time, there was just as much outcry for The Exorcist due to its religious content as there was massive praise for the movie itself.

Blair was targeted for her role in the movie which some felt was blasphemous, which left a lasting impact on her life and career.

Even though she and Friedkin have had their disagreements in the past, with Blair blaming the director for her lifelong back issues which were catalysed by fault rigging on The Exorcist, she has written a length tribute to the man she describes as her "protector.

Read the tribute, which was posted on Instagram, below:

"Like Sidney Poitier‘s famous movie “To Sir with Love”, how do you put into words appreciation to the person that changed your life forever, along with the world?

"Billy Friedkin was a game changer, thought outside the box, was a genius with an incredibly bold personality and extraordinary imagery that electrified colleagues and moviegoers alike and remained a true maverick throughout his career in the film industry.

READ MORE: The 10 best William Friedkin movies of all time

"Every actor wanted to work with him and maybe my story is the most poignant. Taking a real 13-year-old and confirming my stability to endure the journey he was about to take me and the world on. His directing came with demanding guidance, commitment and strict work ethic. His creative licensing with my performance, always thought provoking and precise with his 'on point' direction for my performance as Regan. Pushing envelopes with ground breaking special effects to ensure my performance was nothing less than shocking and unforgettable.

"He fiercely protected me from the maddening crowds that reared their ugly heads back in the day of the movie’s release.

"He understood my need to remain grounded in nature, my love for animals, and giving me my first prize horse which I named “Best Director” in his honor. He supported my continued love for animals and my foundation Linda Blair Worldheart, to change the world for the animals.

"He was my director, friend, and protector. It was an honor to know him and I am deeply saddened at this time. He changed my life forever, along with the world through my performance, and all my performances throughout my career.

"RIP my dear friend…love, respect and deepest condolences to Sherry, Cedric and Jack."

Blair became one of the youngest performers in history to earn an Academy Award nomination for her performance in The Exorcist.