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Summary:

Jamie Lee Curtis revealed that she almost auditioned for “The Exorcist” as a child, but her mother, Janet Leigh, prevented it to protect her childhood. Curtis is grateful for her mother’s decision. She discussed this on “The Drew Barrymore Show” highlighting that starring as Laurie Strode in “Halloween” marked her debut in the horror genre. Curtis was recently honored at Variety’s Power of Women event, supporting Children’s Hospital Los Angeles alongside other honorees like Kate Hudson, Nicole Scherzinger, Wanda Sykes, and Sydney Sweeney.

News Article:

Jamie Lee Curtis Reveals Near “Exorcist” Role, Thanks Mom for Protecting Her Childhood

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – Jamie Lee Curtis, renowned for her role as Laurie Strode in the “Halloween” franchise, recently shared a surprising revelation on “The Drew Barrymore Show”: she almost starred in the horror classic “The Exorcist” as a child.

Curtis explained that her mother, screen legend Janet Leigh, intervened to protect her from starting an acting career too young. “One of the producers of the film was a very good friend of my mother’s, so he asked Leigh if her daughter would audition,” Curtis said. While the young Curtis, around 12 at the time, possessed the charm and personality for the role, her mother prioritized her having a normal childhood.

Curtis expressed gratitude for Leigh’s decision, contrasting her experience with that of Drew Barrymore, who started acting at a young age. Curtis made her film debut in 1978’s “Halloween” at age 19.

The Oscar-winning actress was recently honored at Variety’s Power of Women event, which took place on October 29th at the Beverly Hills Hotel. Curtis, who supports Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, was joined by fellow honorees including Kate Hudson (World Food Programme), Nicole Scherzinger (Special Olympics), Wanda Sykes (Ruth Ellis Center), and Sydney Sweeney (National Center on Domestic and Sexual Violence). Gymnast and activist Aly Raisman received the Variety Courage Award for her advocacy for survivors of abuse.

The event emphasized the importance of women uplifting each other, particularly during challenging times. Wanda Sykes underscored this sentiment in her speech.

While Curtis’ career is cemented as a horror icon she admits she is not a fan of the genre.

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