20 Things You Didn't Know About The Exorcist

20. Linda Blair Had Bodyguards Hired For Six Months After The Film's Release

Although only 14 years of age at the time of release there was a lot of controversy surrounding Regan actress Linda Blair's performance.

There were more than a few overtly-fanatical people that found the subject matter of The Exorcist a bit too much to handle. The film was even accused of glorifying Satan by some of the barmier religious zealots who went to see it. As a result, Blair's performance became a target for abuse and ridicule from both critics and audience goers.

But when the hate mail she received started escalating into death threats against Blair's life the studio was forced to act. Blair was assigned an armed escort for six months following the film's release until much of the hype and hate died down.