Fans at an Atlanta screening of The Conjuring: Last Rites received an unexpected visit from star Patrick Wilson, who made a surprise appearance during the event. The actor, known for playing Ed Warren in the horror franchise, interacted with the audience and expressed gratitude for their support. The spontaneous moment, which occurred shortly before the film’s official U.S. release, quickly gained attention on social media, with fans praising Wilson for his genuine engagement.
Wilson’s Unexpected Visit
Patrick Wilson appeared at the Regal Atlantic Station in Atlanta, Georgia, during a screening of The Conjuring: Last Rites on September 7, 2025. He explained to the audience that he decided to stop by because he was filming nearby and mentioned that this would be the only screening he would attend. Wilson engaged with the crowd, asking how many were new to the series and how many had seen multiple films in the franchise. The audience responded with cheers and excitement to his unexpected visit .
Fan Reactions on Social Media
Social media platforms buzzed with reactions from fans who appreciated Wilson’s gesture. One fan commented on X (formerly Twitter),
“Now that’s how you treat fans… showing up in person, shaking hands, making it memorable. Respect to Patrick Wilson for keeping it real with the people who support him.”
Another user noted that the surprise appearance turned the screening into a more immersive experience, saying,
“Horror hits different when the stars step out of the shadows. Patrick surprising fans at ‘The Conjuring: Last Rites’ turns a screening into a séance.”
Some fans even joked that Wilson’s presence caused more screams than the movie itself .
Box Office Performance and Ratings
The Conjuring: Last Rites premiered in U.S. cinemas on September 5, 2025. The film exceeded box office expectations, earning an estimated $83 million domestically in its first three days, doubling initial projections of $40 million. Worldwide, the movie grossed $187 million, far surpassing the anticipated $80 million. Despite its commercial success, the film received mixed reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 56% critics’ rating based on 145 reviews, while audiences gave it a more favorable 78% score .
Film Details and Context
The Conjuring: Last Rites is marketed as the final installment in the Conjuring franchise. The film stars Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga as Ed and Lorraine Warren, paranormal investigators who take on one last terrifying case. The movie has a runtime of 2 hours and 15 minutes and is rated R. While some viewers praised the performances and opening scenes, others felt the ending did not fully deliver on the buildup .
Wilson’s Connection to the Franchise
Patrick Wilson has played Ed Warren since the first Conjuring film released in 2013. His surprise appearance in Atlanta highlights his ongoing commitment to engaging with fans who have supported the series over the years. The Conjuring franchise is the highest-grossing horror series of all time, and Wilson’s role has been central to its success .
Also Read: Where Was The Conjuring: Last Rites Filmed? A Simple Guide to the Movie’s Locations
