Linda Blair

Photo of Linda Blair

Biography

At the age of 13, actress Linda Blair found herself starring in one of the most influential films of all time and nominated for an Academy Award for her work in "The Exorcist" (1973), only to be typecast as a result of the role that made her a star. Not only did "The Exorcist" launch Blair's career, it also redefined the horror film genre and perpetuated a cultural fascination with demonic possession. It also made such an indelible impression …
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Job Title

Actor, Producer, Music

Born

January 22, 1959

Career Milestones

1997

Appeared as Rizzo in the Broadway revival of "Grease"

1996

Reunited with director Craven for a cameo appearance as an obnoxious reporter in "Scream"

1989

First collaboration with director Chuck Vincent on "Bad Blood" (later worked with him on "Bedroom Eyes II" 1990)

1983

Delivered her most persuasive adult performance to date as a tawdry, delightfully trashy sweater girl reminiscent of 1950s B heroines like Beverly Michaels and Mamie Van Doren in "Savage Streets"

1978

Starred as put-upon victim of witchcraft in Wes Craven's NBC movie "Stranger in Our House"

Arrested for conspiracy to possess cocaine in 1977; Blair claimed that she was framed; eventually pleaded guilty to a lesser charge in 1978

1976

Cast as Kirk Douglas' daughter in "Victory at Entebbe" (ABC)

1975

Portrayed title character in NBC movie "Sarah T.--Portrait of a Teenage Alcoholic"

1974

TV-movie debut, "Born Innocent" (NBC), a sensationally promoted film about juvenile delinquency

1973

At age 13, played breakthrough role of Regan in "The Exorcist"; earned a Best Supporting Actress Oscar nomination

1970

Film acting debut in "The Way We Live Now"

Worked as child model (e.g., Sears Roebuck catalogue) and on TV commercials

Grew up in Westport, Connecticut

Awards

1973

Golden Globe Award for New Star Of The Year - Actress

1973

Academy Award for Actress In a Supporting Role in The Exorcist

1973

Golden Globe Award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture in The Exorcist