Exclusive: Horror Legend Linda Blair, Dedicated Animal Activist

Linda Blair is a living legend in the horror community; few actors ever achieve her level of fame or cultural impact—in any genre. Getting a chance to meet her was a definite highlight of this year’s Monsterpalooza convention in Burbank. And while she clearly appreciates her notoriety, Blair doesn’t need the event to perpetuate her legacy (that’s firmly established); instead she uses the opportunity to bring attention to a cause she has dedicated her life to: Animal welfare.

Horror Legend Linda Blair with Blood-Shed Writer Josh Millican

Blair: “I’m here for the animals!”

If you want to bore her, ask Blair a question about her experiences as a teenager on a movie set 40 years ago. If you want to see her face light up with pure joy and enthusiasm, however, ask her about The Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation.

As the proud guardian of 2 rescue dogs myself, she and I made a connection beyond horror fandom; but my efforts pale in comparison to Blair’s tireless work to improve the lives of California’s most at-risk animals.

The Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation rescues homeless/abandoned dogs including: Dogs rescued and relocated from New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina, and dogs facing euthanasia at local government rescue facilities. These animals are cared for, properly fed and nourished, medicated when needed, spayed/neutered, trained for proper behavior, and eventually placed in qualified and loving “Forever Homes”.

The Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation is a California non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue of dogs of all sizes, shapes, and colors. After a 3 year search, the organization recently procured a 2.5 acre property 20 miles north of Los Angeles where animals receive physical and mental rehabilitation. It has been named the LBWF Rescued Animal Wellness Center and it’s nothing short of a Mecca for these dogs, many of whom have experienced unimaginable suffering.

Interested in Getting Involved?

As with any non-profit, volunteers and donations are the cornerstone of the organization. For her part, Linda Blair donates all of the proceeds from her Monsterpalooza appearance to WorldHeart. The organization is always looking for like-minded individuals to join the cause. If you are interested in volunteering or would like information on other ways you can help, you can visit their official website: HERE.  You can also like their Facebook page HERE, and follow them on Twitter @LindaBlairWF. Donations can be made online via PayPal or credit card, or mailed to: The Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation, 10061 Riverside Drive #1003, Toluca Lake, CA 91602.

During our conversation, Blair told me that she’s touched by the amount of love the horror community has for animals, and I couldn’t agree more. The horror community is more than just a group of people who enjoy blood and guts: We’re a diverse population of caring and motivated individuals. The Linda Blair WorldHeart foundation is a great way for horror fans to channel our efforts towards making a difference in our community at large.

Linda Blair may have come to terms with the fact that she will always be associated with the character Regan MacNeil from The Exorcist, but she uses this notoriety to do something truly important, ensuring a legacy that will equal or surpass her cinematic fame.

What do you think of Linda Blair’s WorldHeart Foundation? Sound off in the comments section!

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