What was William Peter Blatty's Net Worth?
William Peter Blatty was an American writer and filmmaker with a net worth of $10 million at the time of his death. Born in New York City on January 7, 1928, he passed away on January 12, 2017, at the age of 89.
Blatty was renowned for his novel "The Exorcist," which he later adapted into the classic screenplay for the film of the same name. The novel and film both achieved critical acclaim and significant commercial success, cementing Blatty's reputation as a master of horror and suspense.
For "The Exorcist," Blatty won the 1974 Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay and also secured the Golden Globe award in the same category.
Early Life
Blatty's early life was marked by financial difficulties and frequent relocations. Raised in a devout Catholic family, his spiritual upbringing significantly influenced his later work. Despite the challenges, these experiences nurtured his resilience and sparked his passion for storytelling.
Education
Blatty attended Georgetown University, where he majored in English literature, and later earned a master's degree in English from George Washington University. His academic journey deepened his literary expertise and exposed him to philosophical and theological subjects, profoundly shaping his writing style.
Early Career
Blatty's early career involved a variety of writing endeavors, ranging from comedy screenplays to non-fiction work. He initially worked in public relations and wrote for several magazines before transitioning to screenwriting. Collaborating with director Blake Edwards, Blatty contributed to films like "A Shot in the Dark" (1964) and "What Did You Do in the War, Daddy?" (1966).
The Exorcist
The publication of "The Exorcist" in 1971 catapulted Blatty to international fame. The story, inspired by his Catholic upbringing, revolves around a young girl possessed by a demonic entity. The novel's success led to a blockbuster film adaptation in 1973, directed by William Friedkin and starring Linda Blair, Ellen Burstyn, Jason Miller, and Max von Sydow. The film grossed $430 million on a $12 million budget and won Blatty an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.
Blatty had several legal disputes with Warner Bros., the studio behind "The Exorcist." His 2010 lawsuit claimed a co-ownership of the film's copyright and sought a fair share of royalties.
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Novels
Beyond "The Exorcist," Blatty authored several other novels that highlight his literary dexterity. Titles such as "Legion" (1983), a sequel to "The Exorcist," and "Elsewhere" (2009), a supernatural thriller, reflect his skill in merging horror with elements of mystery, drama, and philosophical inquiry.
Other Work
Blatty also made significant contributions as a director and producer. He directed "The Ninth Configuration" (1980), a psychological thriller exploring themes of faith and madness. His ventures into filmmaking demonstrated his ability to translate complex ideas into visual narratives.
Personal Life
Blatty was married four times and fathered seven children. He died in January 2017, just five days before his 89th birthday.
Bethesda Mansion
In his later years, Blatty lived in Aspen, Colorado, before settling in Bethesda, Maryland. In 2001, he purchased a 10,000-square-foot mansion for $1.75 million. After his passing, the estate listed the property for $3.195 million, but no offers were accepted.