Olivia O’Neill Is Giving Us the Chilling Details About Her Part in “The Exorcist: Believer”
Photo Credit: Ben Cope
We are happy to introduce actress Olivia O’Neil!! As the main star, she will be seen on screens in David Gordon Green’s upcoming Universal/Blumhouse sequel to THE EXORCIST alongside Leslie Odom Jr. and Ellen Burstyn. She plays Katherine in the film and it promises to be quite a thrill ride!
Olivia is not only into acting she is also committed to improving mental health in America today, particularly among young people. There has never been a more critical time for youth to address mental health, especially given the alarming increase in school violence. Academic pressure, social challenges, and the quest for identity can make adolescence a challenging time. By ignoring mental health needs during these vulnerable phases, acts of violence in schools may be exacerbated. We can foster emotional resilience and reduce school violence by prioritizing mental health support and destigmatizing seeking help.
The young actress is here with us today sharing her experience working on THE EXORCIST: Believer and answering all the silly miscellaneous questions I can throw her way! Let's see what she has in store for us today, shall we?
NOTE: This interview was secured prior to strike.
Hello Olivia! It's great to have you here for this interview. Can you start by sharing a bit about yourself? What are your interests and experiences that have led you to where you are today?
Hey Rival! I’m so excited to be here.
Since I can remember, I’ve had the itch to perform. Theater was a key part of my childhood and I definitely always knew I was going to end up in the industry.
How was your childhood and how it shaped your path into acting? Were there any significant influences from your parents that led you to pursue an acting career?
Perfect segway! As I mentioned, I was always drawn to storytelling as a kid. I was the youngest child for most of my childhood and I think that really shaped my personality. I was always such an emotional and aware kid, it was so clear to those around me that I was going to be an actor.
What are some notable experiences you have had while working as an actor in Hollywood? Can you share any anecdotes from your time on set?
Ooo, It was definitely such a pinch-me moment to get to work so closely with Ellen Burstyn. She is such a gracious and wise person, it was so so great to get to know her.
What specific actors serve as a source of inspiration for you in your craft, and how have they influenced your approach to acting?
I’m obsessed with Winona Ryder! I think she’s such a captivating person to watch. I’ve definitely studied her projects and been influenced by the emotional complexity she brings.
What can you share with us about your latest endeavor, “The Exorcist: Believer”? Did you like working alongside the other members of the cast?
I had the time of my life filming this!! You would think such an intense movie would call for an intense behind-the-scenes, but it was just the opposite. Between takes Lidya Jewett and I would always be goofing off and pulling pranks. I loved getting to work with my best friend <3
As a huge fan of the OG Exorcist film, I am curious to know if you had watched it before taking on your role in the new movie. How did it influence your portrayal of the character?
Getting to study The Exorcist was such an interesting part of this process. I got to go through and see everything from an investigative set of eyes. There are so many small things I didn’t pick up on the first time around and it was so interesting to get to really break down a cult classic film like The Exorcist.
Besides acting, what else do you love to do?
I love being outdoors. One of my top bucket list items is to visit every national park… I’ll keep you posted on that one! Haha
What motivated you to become involved in advocating for youth mental health?
Mental health problems have become so widespread, and I believe this is such an important issue. We must advocate for improved awareness and care for those facing these challenges. It begins with each one of us taking action.
What is next for you on the horizon?
I’m looking forward to branching into other genres in the future, I love a good change. I can never sit in one place for too long!
Well, that's all the questions I have for you today Olivia. Thank you so much for being with us today! Is there anything else you would like to share or add?
It was great talking with you and I think we pretty much covered it! Thanks for having me, Rival!
STAY IN TOUCH WITH OLIVIA O’NEIL ON INSTAGRAM