Matthew Lillard's Return to the Scream Franchise: A Shocking Twist for Scream 7
Deadline has confirmed the surprising return of Matthew Lillard for Scream 7. Lillard, iconic for his portrayal of the antagonistic Stu Macher in the original 1996 Scream, will be featured in the upcoming installment.
This news has ignited fervent speculation among fans, considering Stu's demise in the first film. Will Lillard reprise his role, or will he take on a new character? The mystery remains, though Lillard himself hinted at his involvement via an Instagram post (embedded below).
The reunion of original Scream cast members continues, with Lillard joining Neve Campbell (reprising her role as Sidney Prescott), and Courteney Cox. Scott Foley, Mason Gooding, and Jasmin Savoy Brown are also confirmed for the cast.
This announcement is significant, especially given the film's turbulent production history. The project faced setbacks including the departure of Melissa Barrera in November 2023 following social media controversy, and Jenna Ortega's subsequent exit, removing both Carpenter sisters from the narrative. Director Christopher Landon also left the project in December 2023, citing a difficult experience. Kevin Williamson, writer of the original Scream, Scream 2, and Scream 4, has since stepped in as director.
Radio Silence, the directing duo behind Scream and Scream 6, announced their departure from Scream 7 in August 2023, but remain as executive producers. Guy Busick, co-writer of the previous two films, is returning to pen the screenplay.
Scream 7 is slated for release on February 27, 2026.
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