The Unexpected Casting of Jason Miller as Father Karras in 'The Exorcist
The character of Father Karras in the 1973 horror film "The Exorcist" was portrayed by actor and playwright Jason Miller. Miller, who had recently won a Pulitzer Prize for his play "That Championship Season," had no prior screen credits but gained worldwide attention and an Oscar nomination for his role in the movie. Despite being an unexpected choice, Miller's audition chemistry with co-star Ellen Burstyn and his Catholic upbringing led to his casting in the film.
Screenwriter William Peter Blatty initially wanted Stacy Keach to play Father Karras, but director William Friedkin favored Jason Miller after seeing his audition. Notable actors like Paul Newman and Jack Nicholson were also considered for the role, with Nicholson expressing strong interest and even stalking Friedkin in restaurants to secure the part. Friedkin ultimately felt Nicholson's intensity might not suit the character of Father Karras, leading to Miller's casting.
Friedkin admitted that Jason Miller was not his first choice for the role of Father Karras, but he appreciated Miller's chemistry with Burstyn and believed he brought a more suitable demeanor to the character. Nicholson's reputation for intense performances in previous films like "Easy Rider" and "Five Easy Pieces" may have influenced Friedkin's decision, as he felt Nicholson's portrayal could have been too intense for the role. Despite Nicholson's interest, Miller's performance in "The Exorcist" solidified his place in the film's legacy.