The 'No' That Defined the Jamie Lee Curtis Exorcist Audition History

One of the most iconic roles in horror history almost belonged to someone else. Jamie Lee Curtis recently revealed that she nearly auditioned for 'The Exorcist' at just 12 years old, but her mother's intervention changed her career path forever.

The Motherly Shield and the Jamie Lee Curtis Exorcist Audition

During an appearance on 'The Drew Barrymore Show,' the Oscar winner shared that producer Ray Stark reached out to her mother, legendary actress Janet Leigh, regarding an audition for the role of Regan. Curtis recalls that while she had a "sassy personality" at 12, her mother gave a firm "No" to the request. "My mom really wanted me to have—thank God—a childhood," Curtis explained, acknowledging the protection she received.

This decision stands in stark contrast to the experience of Drew Barrymore, who became a global star at 7 years old in 'E.T.' While the role in 'The Exorcist' eventually earned Linda Blair an Oscar nomination at age 14, Curtis didn't make her big-screen debut until she was 19 in John Carpenter's 'Halloween.'

A Long Journey to Sobriety and Self-Acceptance

Even with a delayed start in Hollywood, Curtis hasn't been immune to the pressures of fame. Earlier this year in February, she celebrated a major milestone: 26 years of sobriety. Reflecting on her struggles with addiction and body image, she credited recovery for giving her a "creative life I never thought possible." Her journey highlights that even with a supportive start, navigating the industry requires immense resilience.