William Friedkin

Biography

Born 08/29/1935

One of the most powerful film directors of the 1970’s, Academy Award-winning director William Friedkin was representative of Hollywood’s first wave of hip, hot, young super-directors. Famed for his boisterous talent and booming ego, Friedkin earned a reputation for drawing out brilliant...
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Filmography

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Awards

In 1974, received NATO for Director of the Year
In 1973, received Golden Globe for Best Director
In 1971, received Directors Guild of America for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Feature Film

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Premiere Photos

William Friedkin, Rules of Engagement (2000)

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Highlights

In 2007, Directed the psychological horror film, "Bug" starring Ashley Judd and Harry Connick Jr.
In 2002, Directed Benicio Del Toro in "The Hunted"; production was shut down in June 2001 when Del Toro was injured days before principal photography was due to end (completed several months later)
In 2002, Staged two productions for the Los Angeles Opera

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Family & Companions

Ellen Burstyn: worked together on "The Exorcist" (1973); Burstyn claims they had an affair c. 1976; Friedkin disputes it claiming they were "just friends"
Jennifer Nairn-Smith: met in 1972; together for four years; twice announced engagement; mother of Friedkin's son Cedric
Kitty Hawks: also worked in an advertising agency; daughter of Howard Hawks; introduced to Friedkin by playwright Mart Crowly c. 1969 during the filming of "Boys in the Band"; lived together; announced engagement but separated in June 1971

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