His death was confirmed by CAA via his wife,Fatal Attractionproducer and former studio chief Sherry Lansing.
He would go up against more heavy hitters withThe Exorcisttwo years later.
He adapted the Showtime/Paramount Global film from Herman Wouks play.
William FriedkinRosdiana Ciaravolo/Getty Images
After directing 1970sThe Boys in the Band,Friedkin turned to what would be his Oscar winner.
It also made AFIs 100 Years … 100 Movies list of all-time cinema classics.
But he had plenty more in the tank.
Gene Hackman shoots Marcel Bozzuffi in ‘The French Connection’20th Century Fox/Everett Collection
He next helmedThe Exorcist,among cinemas most gripping creepshows.
Her 360 head-spin haunts moviegoers to this day.
Other nominees included mentions for Friedkin, lead actress Ellen Burstyn and supporting actors Blair and Jason Miller.
Shudder lateracquired its rightsand aired the pic the following year.
Watch a trailer for the docu below.
He also wroteThe Guardian.
He was honored with star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1997.
Along with Lansing, Friedkin is survived by sons Cedtic and Jack.
The family plans a private service.
