7th 'Scream' Film Resurrects Matthew Lillard

Matthew Lillard Returns for Scream 7

Deadline reports that Matthew Lillard, the memorable antagonist Stuart "Stu" Macher from the original 1996 Scream, will star in Scream 7.

This news has fans speculating about Lillard's role, given Stu's demise in the first film. Will he reprise his iconic character or take on a new one? Lillard himself hinted at his involvement in an Instagram post (embedded below).

The return of Lillard reunites him with Neve Campbell (reprising her role as Sidney Prescott) and Courteney Cox in Scream 7. Other returning cast members include Scott Foley, Mason Gooding, and Jasmin Savoy Brown.

The film's production has faced significant hurdles. Melissa Barrera was dismissed from the project in November 2023 following social media posts, and Jenna Ortega also departed, leaving the Carpenter sisters absent from the sequel. 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 taken over directing duties.

Radio Silence, the directing duo behind Scream and Scream 6, announced their departure from the directorial role in August 2023 but remain as executive producers. Guy Busick, co-writer of the previous two films, is returning to pen the script for Scream 7.

Scream 7 is slated for release in cinemas on February 27, 2026.

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