A priest is called in to help a 12-year-old girl who appears to be possessed by an overwhelming demonic force. Horror classic dramatised by Robert Forrest.

That’s how William Peter Blatty, who died Thursday ... Despite praise from such aficionados as Stephen King, Blatty resisted the notion that The Exorcist was a horror story.

and the efforts of religious authorities to counter it with various acts of faith. Inspired by the literary works of William Peter Blatty.

and the efforts of religious authorities to counter it with various acts of faith. Inspired by the literary works of William Peter Blatty.

Blatty discussed the idea for his novel with Harold Keen. It was the nation's best selling book then.

and the efforts of religious authorities to counter it with various acts of faith. Inspired by the literary works of William Peter Blatty.