Rachel Stavis, renowned as the “Hollywood Exorcist,” is expanding her endeavors into the world of scripted entertainment. Her unique background as a “non-denominational exorcist on a mission to create global change by eradicating darkness from one person or place at a time” has attracted the attention of prominent figures in the entertainment and political arenas.
Stavis is currently in the casting phase for her feature directorial debut, “Da Wee Do Wa,” which she also penned. The film delves into the complexities of generational trauma experienced by women, utilizing the lens of body horror to explore this profound issue. XYZ Films is in talks to produce the project, with V (formerly Eve Ensler) on board as an executive producer and Pamela Adlon attached as an associate producer. V, the acclaimed creator of the groundbreaking theater piece “The Vagina Monologues,” lauds Stavis’ film as “an intense and wonderfully written exploration into generational trauma and gaslighting – two forms of abuse that so many people are facing right now. Telling this story through the lens of horror is a powerful way to address important issues and spark meaningful conversations, so I’m thrilled to collaborate in bringing these themes to light in a nuanced and unconventional way.”
Beyond “Da Wee Do Wa,” Stavis has joined forces with prolific writer-producer Glen Mazarra (“The Shield,” “The Walking Dead”) to adapt her memoir, “Sister of Darkness: The Chronicles of a Modern Exorcist,” into a gripping television series. Published by HarperCollins in 2018, the book chronicles Stavis’ journey of discovering her extraordinary abilities and revisits perilous cases that tested her and her clients. Mazarra describes Stavis as “an incredible person with a fascinating story, one we’re excited to explore as a TV series. She’s changed how I see the world.”
The entertainment industry has long been captivated by the subject of exorcism, particularly in recent times with Universal’s reboot of “The Exorcist” franchise and the critical and commercial success of Russell Crowe’s 2023 film, “The Pope’s Exorcist.” Stavis’ representatives have also been showcasing her journals detailing her most unsettling experience – a 2019 incident involving The Rosewood Inn. The property’s new owner sought Stavis’ assistance after encountering a series of inexplicable occurrences: construction workers reported peculiar noises, screams, and visions, and a foreman mysteriously fell into a coma and subsequently passed away. Stavis’ investigation uncovered a history of enigmatic deaths on the site, adding to the intrigue surrounding this perplexing case.
Stavis is represented by CAA and Kailey Marsh at Brillstein Entertainment, underscoring her growing influence in the entertainment industry. As she continues to navigate the worlds of spirituality and storytelling, her unique perspective and captivating narratives are poised to leave an indelible mark on the scripted entertainment landscape.