William Peter Blatty ​

William Peter Blatty was an American writer and filmmaker best known for his 1971 novel The Exorcist and for the Academy Award-winning screenplay of its film adaptation. His work spans many genres, but he is particularly recognized for his contributions to the horror genre.

Quick Facts ​

• Wrote the novel The Exorcist (1971) which was adapted into the 1973 horror film.
• Also penned the screenplay for the film version of The Exorcist, for which he won an Academy Award.
• Other novels include Legion (1983) and Dimiter (2010).
• His works often incorporate themes of faith, spirituality, and the supernatural.

Background ​

Blatty was born in 1928, in New York City, to Lebanese immigrant parents. He was raised in a Catholic household and attended a Jesuit high school before enrolling at Georgetown University, where he earned his bachelor's degree in English. Afterward, he received a master's degree in English Literature from the George Washington University. He then worked in various roles, including as a vacuum cleaner salesman, a truck driver, and a beer distributor before landing a job in the U.S. Air Force as a public relations officer.

In 1971, he penned his most famous work, The Exorcist, which was later adapted into a highly successful and iconic horror film. The novel was on the New York Times bestseller list for a total of 57 weeks and has sold over 13 million copies. Other novels he wrote include Legion and Dimiter. He also wrote and directed several films such as The Ninth Configuration and A Shot in the Dark. He passed away in 2017.

Writing Style and Impact ​

Blatty is best known for his horror and suspenseful writing style. His narratives are packed with suspense, mystery and religious elements, often exploring existential themes and the nature of good and evil. He typically incorporates a mix of the supernatural and psychological elements in his works, notably in his prominent book 'The Exorcist'. His unique style has cemented his status as a key figure in the horror genre.

Notable Works ​

• The Exorcist (1971)
• Legion (1983)
• The Ninth Configuration (1978)
• Elsewhere (2009)