Five-year old Linda Blair modeled for catalogues from Sears, JC Penney’s and Macy’s. Her print work led Linda to over 70 television commercials, including Welch’s Jelly and other national products. She enhanced her marketable skills by taking equestrian training. At 10, Linda had a regular role in a soap opera and landed small roles in films.
In 1972, Linda was chosen from a pool of 600 young ladies for the coveted role of “Regan MacNeil,” the daughter of an actress who happened to be possessed by an ancient demon, in the film adaptation of the celebrated novel The Exorcist. Her terrifying performance garnered praise as well as a Golden Globe and Academy Award nomination. To dispel rumors regarding Linda’s mental state during filming, Warner Brothers sent the young actress on a press tour to show she was just a normal teenager.
Linda tackled more controversial roles, including the TV movie Born Innocent about an abused teen, Sarah T – Portrait of a Teenage Alcoholic and several “women in prison” movies. She reprised her “Exorcist” role in the poorly-received Exorcist II: The Heretic. When that film wrapped, she took a year off from acting to compete in equestrian circuits under the name “Martha McDonald.” She even poked fun at herself in the 1990 spoof Repossessed.
Linda has been a long-time advocate for animal rights and maintains a namesake non-profit for animal rescue. She also regularly appears at conventions to meet and mingle with her fans.
Linda, however, almost didn’t get the iconic role for which she is best known. Voice actress April Winchell, daughter of voice actor Paul Winchell, was seriously considered for the role of “Regan MacNeil” until she was sidelined with an illness that required a lengthy hospital stay. April was ultimately dropped, opening the door for Linda Blair.