Scream Star's Epic Return in 'Scream 7'

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 portray a new one? Lillard himself hinted at his involvement via 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 challenges. Melissa Barrera was dismissed from the project in November 2023 following social media posts concerning the Gaza conflict. Shortly after, it was announced that Jenna Ortega would not be returning, removing both Carpenter sisters, central figures since 2022's Scream, from the cast.

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Further complicating matters, director Christopher Landon departed in December 2023, describing the experience as a "dream job that turned into a nightmare." Kevin Williamson, writer of the first, second, and fourth Scream films, has since taken over directing duties.

Radio Silence, the directing duo behind Scream and Scream 6, announced in August 2023 that they would not return to direct Scream 7, though they remain executive producers. Guy Busick, co-writer of the previous two installments, is back to pen the screenplay.

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