Production company Spyglass is backing the project.
While the reviews were decidedly mixed, the most recent ‘Scream’ outing –– this past February’s ‘Scream 7’, which saw original writer Kevin Williamson direct for the first time –– has defied expectations and surged to more than $200 million at the global box office, a record for the venerable horror thriller franchise.
Neve Campbell stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream 7.’
Nothing is known about the new ‘Scream’ just yet. ‘Scream 7’ saw the return of Neve Campbell’s Sidney Prescott, who had to battle against more terror from a Ghost Face killer while also struggling to protect her family.
There’s a strong chance Sidney might return for the eighth film, and let’s not forget that Courteney Cox has played journalist Gale Weathers in every entry of the franchise.
When will ‘Scream 8’ be on screens?
Neither Spyglass nor regular studio Paramount has said anything about a release date for the new movie –– but we’d presume it’ll take a couple of years.
(L to R) Neve Campbell and Courteney Cox star in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream 7.’
(L to R) Neve Campbell and Courteney Cox star in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream 7.’
Following the divisive ‘Scream VI’ and the controversy that erupted after the firing of star Melissa Barrera from the series, the 30-year-old franchise has gone for the nostalgia gold with ‘Scream 7,’ which sees the return of original star Neve Campbell and original writer Kevin Williamson, who now also directs.
But any spark from their return to the franchise is not evident in this tired, often dull, and borderline nonsensical entry. If anything, ‘Scream 7’ proves that the franchise has become what it once poked fun at, a horror brand running on fumes and a convoluted legacy that it forgets when necessary. It’s time for Ghostface to hang up the mask and robe.
Story and Direction
(L to R) Neve Campbell, and Director Kevin Williamson on the set of Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream 7.’
‘Scream 7’ begins with the now-standard opening set piece, in which a young couple (Jimmy Tatro and Michelle Randolph) who come to spend the night at a ‘Macher Murder House Experience’ end up sliced, diced, and roasted by the new Ghostface. The sequence is well-staged and the ‘Murder House’ idea clever – but it’s dropped immediately thereafter.
We then move on to the town of Pine Grove, where founding ‘Scream’ heroine Sidney Prescott, now Evans (Campbell), is living a quiet life with her police chief husband (Joel McHale) and her teenage daughter Tatum (Isabel May), the latter of which she has a strained relationship with. It isn’t very long, however, before Sidney gets a call from the new Ghostface – and alarmingly, a video call as well, in which the killer appears to be the allegedly dead Stu Macher (Matthew Lillard), one of the original Ghostface murderers from the first ‘Scream.’
Sidney, her family, and some of her daughter’s friends are attacked, but the initial assault ends up being something of a diversionary tactic before the real games begin. Pine Grove goes into lockdown and a few old friends return as Ghostface begins mowing down everyone around Sidney and targeting both her and Tatum for death.
(L to R) Isabel May, and Director Kevin Williamson, on the set of Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream 7.’
From this rather thin narrative, ‘Scream 7’ spins out a few ideas about AI and Hollywood’s endless thirst for nostalgia, only to do little with them. The same goes for the cast: while Campbell is a welcome presence of course, the rest of the ensemble is a bland cluster of actors who stand around waiting to get killed or looking suspicious. Speaking of which, we guessed who was behind the Ghostface killings pretty early on, but that doesn’t stop the finale – including the revelation of the killers – from being perhaps the weakest of the entire franchise, with motivations that don’t even make much sense capping a third act that tosses away almost all story logic.
References to earlier entries abound, including ‘Scream VI,’ and two characters from that film show up just to let us know that the franchise is not going to pretend that that NYC-based adventure never happened. But regardless, everything here has a detectable lack of energy, and both cast and filmmakers seem to largely go through the motions. Some of the kills are gleefully sadistic and creatively staged, but those and, again, Campbell’s return are about the only bright spots we can find.
Cast and Performances
(L to R) McKenna Grace, Celeste O’Connor and Isabel May star in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream 7.’
As we said, Neve Campbell’s return is a welcome one; she has an earthy, no-nonsense attitude that grounds her performance. But even she has trouble keeping her energy up, especially during some of the film’s tedious dialogue sequences, with most of her real fire coming in the confrontations with Ghostface. It doesn’t help that the younger, newer cast members around her don’t really get the chance to display much personality.
As for Courteney Cox, the franchise’s other longstanding charter member shows up during the second act and mostly disappears for the third – while we appreciate that this is a Sidney-centric story, it’s too bad Gale doesn’t have more to do. Other legacy cast members in the film – most of which have been made public, like David Arquette and Scott Foley – are really just rolled out in service of the nostalgia that the film ostensibly wants to satirize.
Final Thoughts
Neve Campbell stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream 7.’
Kevin Williamson returns to the ‘Scream’ saga for the first time since 2011’s well-regarded ‘Scream 4,’ but he and co-writer Guy Busick don’t seem to have anything new to deploy this time (it would have been interesting to see what ‘Happy Death Day’ writer/director Christopher Landon, who left the first version of ‘Scream 7’ after Barrera was fired and Jenna Ortega departed, might have done with the mythos). As a visualist he’s not that savvy here either: much of the film is shrouded in darkness that makes it hard to see the strikingly plentiful gore.
Those gruesome effects, the flashy murders, and Campbell may all be enough to draw both ‘Scream’ diehards and casual fans back to the theater, but it’s not enough to creatively sustain a franchise that has all but abandoned the rules and underlying premise that once made it seem revolutionary. After seven films, it’s time for ‘Scream’ to let silence reign.
Sidney Prescott has built a new life for herself in the quiet town of Pine Grove, Indiana, until a new Ghostface killer begins to target her daughter Tatum, forcing her to face her past and end the killings once and for all.
David Arquette in Paramount Pictures “Scream.” Photo: Paramount Pictures.
Preview:
David Arquette will be back as Dewey Riley ‘Scream 7.’
He is returning in a “surprise” way.
Original writer Kevin Williamson is directing.
From the sounds of it, legacy will be a heavy theme in ‘Scream 7.’ Not that the more recent outings of the franchise haven’t carried that, featuring younger relatives of some of the classic characters.
xn1Putz3RwmjIHJsUIliM6
But the new entry in the franchise, currently being shot by original writer Kevin Williamson in Georgia, has yet another link to the past, with Deadline reporting that David Arquette is back.
Arquette, of course starred as fan-favorite Deputy Dewey Riley, who first appears in the franchise’s original ‘Scream’ film as the older brother of Tatum Riley (Rose McGowan) and the clumsy police deputy trying to help solve the murders in their town of Woodsboro focused on Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell).
Tatum was the fifth victim of the Woodsboro Murders serial killers, which affected Dewey immensely.
Dewey, who also appeared in the other three original ‘Scream’ movies, eventually got his happy ever after, marrying Courteney Cox’s Gale Weathers, though the pair were revealed to have divorced in the years leading up to 2022’s ‘Scream’ reboot, which continued the story.
(L to R) David Arquette and Courteney Cox in Paramount Pictures “Scream.”
And to add insult to injury (actually, more like fatal stabbing injury to insult), Dewey is slaughtered by Ghostface (in this case, with Amber Freeman, played by Mikey Madison, in the disguise) in that film.
Yet we can now add him to the list of characters who will return in some reportedly “surprise” way following word of Matthew Lillard (Stu) and Scott Foley (Roman Bridger) coming back.
Both Stu and Roman were revealed in their respective films to be lurking under the Ghostface disguise (Stu working with Skeet Ulrich’s Billy Loomis) and trying to off Sidney. And both –– spoiler alert in case this is your introduction to the ‘Scream’ movie series –– are dead, Stu at the hands (and a handy TV to the head) of Sid and Roman shot by Dewey in ‘Scream 3.’
Still, we’ve seen ‘Scream’ characters return before; Billy himself shows up as a ghostly presence advising Melissa Barrera’s Sam Carpenter in ‘Scream VI.’
Neve Campbell (“Sidney Prescott”) stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s “Scream.”
There are no details yet on what the latest film will feature, though given that Campbell is back as Prescott and May is playing her daughter, you know it’ll factor into their family.
One other element of that? The fact that Sidney is now married to a man named Mark Evans, who it was recently revealed, will be played by Joel McHale.
What has happened with ‘Scream 7’ so far?
Ghostface in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream VI.’
To this point, the development of the next ‘Scream’ installment has been more trouble than a scorned lover throwing on a cloak and a Ghostface mask to hunt their friends.
Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett effectively rebooted the ‘Scream’ franchise with 2002’s ‘Scream’ and followed it up with this year’s ‘Scream VI’, opted to move on after their second effort, choosing instead to make vampire movie ‘Abigail’, which arrived this year.
Production company Spyglass Media Group found a suitable replacement in Christopher Landon, who previously directed the ‘Happy Death Day’ movies and ‘Freaky’, but then things started to go wrong.
Melissa Barrera fired from ‘Scream VII’
(L to R) Melissa Barrera (Sam Carpenter) and Jenna Ortega (Tara Carpenter) stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream VI.’
Melissa Barrera was dropped from the franchise for social media posts supporting Palestine in the tragic, ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.
While calling for a cease fire in the conflict might not seem all that controversial, some of the reposts on Barrera’s Instagram account have edged over into potentially troubling opinions.
‘Scream’ production company Spyglass issued a statement on the situation:
“Spyglass’ stance is unequivocally clear: We have zero tolerance for antisemitism or the incitement of hate in any form, including false references to genocide, ethnic cleansing, Holocaust distortion or anything that flagrantly crosses the line into hate speech.”
That was followed by word that her co-star, Jenna Ortega, would not then be returning fir the new movie. Ortega’s departure was chalked up to schedule clashes with Season 2 of Netflix hit series ‘Wednesday’, and indeed the decision was reportedly made months before Barrera’s statement and subsequent firing. The timing, though, remains somewhat suspicious.
With his main stars absent, Landon also quit the movie, citing that it had become a nightmare in development.
Neve Campbell talks ‘Scream’ return
Neve Campbell (“Sidney Prescott”) stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s “Scream.”
Here’s what Campbell had to say on the news of her return:
“I’m very happy and proud to say I’ve been asked, in the most respectful way, to bring Sidney back to the screen and I couldn’t be more thrilled!!! Well actually I could. While I’ve been so incredibly lucky to make these films with both the master of horror Wes Craven and the wonderfully talented Matt and Tyler team, I’ve dreamt for many years of how amazing it would be to make one of these movies with Kevin Williamson at the helm. And now it’s happening, Kevin Williamson is going to direct ‘Scream 7’! This was his baby and it’s his brilliant mind that dreamt up this world. Kevin is not just an inspiration as an artist but has been a dear friend for many years.”
(Left) Matthew Lillard in 1996’s ‘Scream’. Photo: Dimension Films. (Right) Scott Foley in ‘Scream 3’. Photo: Dimension Films.
Preview:
Matthew Lillard and Scott Foley will both appear in ‘Scream 7.’
Details on their return are a mystery for now.
Original writer Kevin Williamson is on board to direct.
Looks like Kevin Williamson is ready to invoke some ghost(face)s of ‘Scream’ past for the new movie.
With production having ramped up in Atlanta, Williamson, who of course wrote the first two original ‘Scream’ movies (and ‘Scream 4’) is stepping up to direct this time.
And ‘Scream 7’s script –– from Guy Busick, who wrote the last couple of outings contains return appearances for a franchise stalwart and an actor from the third movie.
Yes, veteran ‘Scream’ fans will no doubt be excited to learn that Matthew Lillard, who played horror movie obsessive Stuart ‘Stu’ Macher in the first film, is back, per Deadline.
xn1Putz3RwmjIHJsUIliM6
And he’s not the only one, as the trade site also reports that Scott Foley, who played Roman Bridger, the antagonist half-brother of Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell) in ‘Scream 3’, is also returning.
Which brings us to our next question… how? Both Stu and Roman were revealed in their respective films to be lurking under the Ghostface disguise (Stu working with Skeet Ulrich’s Billy Loomis) and trying to off Sidney. And both –– spoiler alert in case this is your introduction to the ‘Scream’ movie series –– are dead, Stu at the hands (and a handy TV to the head) of Sid and Roman was shot by Deputy Dewey Riley (David Arquette).
Still, we’ve seen ‘Scream’ characters return before; Billy himself shows up as a ghostly presence advising Melissa Barrera’s Sam Carpenter in ‘Scream VI.’
Plus, Lillard’s Instagram post teasing his return doesn’t hint at some twin twist…
There are no details yet on what the latest film will feature, though given that Campbell is back as Prescott and May is playing her daughter, you know it’ll factor into the Prescott family.
Director Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, left, and Director Tyler Gillett on the set of Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream VI.’
To this point, the development of the next ‘Scream’ installment has been more trouble than a scorned lover throwing on a cloak and a Ghostface mask to hunt their friends.
Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett effectively rebooted the ‘Scream’ franchise with 2002’s ‘Scream’ and followed it up with this year’s ‘Scream VI’, opted to move on after their second effort, choosing instead to make vampire movie ‘Abigail’, which arrived this year.
Production company Spyglass Media Group found a suitable replacement in Christopher Landon, who previously directed the ‘Happy Death Day’ movies and ‘Freaky’, but then things started to go wrong.
Melissa Barrera fired from ‘Scream VII’
(L to R) Melissa Barrera (Sam Carpenter) and Jenna Ortega (Tara Carpenter) stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream VI.’
While calling for a cease fire in the conflict might not seem all that controversial, some of the reposts on Barrera’s Instagram account have edged over into potentially troubling opinions.
‘Scream’ production company Spyglass issued a statement on the situation:
“Spyglass’ stance is unequivocally clear: We have zero tolerance for antisemitism or the incitement of hate in any form, including false references to genocide, ethnic cleansing, Holocaust distortion or anything that flagrantly crosses the line into hate speech.”
That was followed by word that her co-star, Jenna Ortega, would not then be returning fir the new movie. Ortega’s departure was chalked up to schedule clashes with Season 2 of Netflix hit series ‘Wednesday’, and indeed the decision was reportedly made months before Barrera’s statement and subsequent firing. The timing, though, remains somewhat suspicious.
With his main stars absent, Landon also quit the movie, citing that it had become a nightmare in development.
Neve Campbell talks ‘Scream’ return
Neve Campbell (“Sidney Prescott”) stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s “Scream.”
Here’s what Campbell had to say on the news of her return:
“I’m very happy and proud to say I’ve been asked, in the most respectful way, to bring Sidney back to the screen and I couldn’t be more thrilled!!! Well actually I could. While I’ve been so incredibly lucky to make these films with both the master of horror Wes Craven and the wonderfully talented Matt and Tyler team, I’ve dreamt for many years of how amazing it would be to make one of these movies with Kevin Williamson at the helm. And now it’s happening, Kevin Williamson is going to direct ‘Scream 7’! This was his baby and it’s his brilliant mind that dreamt up this world. Kevin is not just an inspiration as an artist but has been a dear friend for many years.”
As for Foley, his career has varied between movies and TV, favoring the latter, with appearances in such shows as ‘Felicity,’ ‘Scrubs,’ ‘True Blood’ and ‘Scandal.’
When will ‘Scream 7’ be in theaters?
‘Scream 7’ will release in theaters worldwide via Paramount Pictures on February 27th, 2026.
Ghostface in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream VI.’
Joel McHale as Jeff Winger on NBC’s ‘Community.’ Photo courtesy of NBC.com.
Preview:
Joel McHale is joining the ‘Scream’ franchise.
He’ll play Sidney Prescott’s husband.
Original writer Kevin Williamson is on board to direct.
McDreamy is out. Say hello to… McSnarky?
No, we are not having a stroke. The news has broken via Deadline that Joel McHale is the latest addition to ‘Scream 7.’ And he’s reportedly playing Sidney Prescott’s (Neve Campbell) husband.
xn1Putz3RwmjIHJsUIliM6
But in this case, it’s not Detective Mark Kincaid, the character that Sidney met in ‘Scream 3,’ and who was played by Patrick Dempsey, and since married. Instead, it seems Sidney will be married to a man named Mark Evans, as that’s who McHale is now on set playing.
Neve Campbell (“Sidney Prescott”) stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s “Scream.”
There are no details yet on what the latest film will feature, though given that Campbell is back as Prescott and May is playing her daughter, you know it’ll factor into the Prescott family.
Obviously, there has been a change to Sidney’s situation, and she’s now gotten remarried. The stress of having survived so many encounters with Ghostface, perhaps?
Kevin Williamson, who wrote the original ‘Scream’ and some of its sequels, has stepped up to direct this latest installment.
Director Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, left, and Director Tyler Gillett on the set of Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream VI.’
To this point, the development of the next ‘Scream’ installment has been more trouble than a scorned lover throwing on a cloak and a Ghostface mask to hunt their friends.
Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett effectively rebooted the ‘Scream’ franchise with 2002’s ‘Scream’ and followed it up with 2023’s ‘Scream VI’, opted to move on after their second effort, choosing instead to make vampire movie ‘Abigail’, which arrived last year.
Production company Spyglass Media Group found a suitable replacement in Christopher Landon, who previously directed the ‘Happy Death Day’ movies and ‘Freaky’, but then things started to go wrong.
Melissa Barrera fired from ‘Scream VII’
(L to R) Melissa Barrera (Sam Carpenter) and Jenna Ortega (Tara Carpenter) stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream VI.’
While calling for a cease fire in the conflict might not seem all that controversial, some of the reposts on Barrera’s Instagram account have edged over into potentially troubling opinions.
‘Scream’ production company Spyglass issued a statement on the situation:
“Spyglass’ stance is unequivocally clear: We have zero tolerance for antisemitism or the incitement of hate in any form, including false references to genocide, ethnic cleansing, Holocaust distortion or anything that flagrantly crosses the line into hate speech.”
That was followed by word that her co-star, Jenna Ortega, would not then be returning fir the new movie. Ortega’s departure was chalked up to schedule clashes with Season 2 of Netflix hit series ‘Wednesday’, and indeed the decision was reportedly made months before Barrera’s statement and subsequent firing. The timing, though, remains somewhat suspicious.
With his main stars absent, Landon also quit the movie, citing that it had become a nightmare in development.
Neve Campbell talks ‘Scream’ return
Neve Campbell (“Sidney Prescott”) stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s “Scream.”
Here’s what Campbell had to say on the news of her return:
“I’m very happy and proud to say I’ve been asked, in the most respectful way, to bring Sidney back to the screen and I couldn’t be more thrilled!!! Well actually I could. While I’ve been so incredibly lucky to make these films with both the master of horror Wes Craven and the wonderfully talented Matt and Tyler team, I’ve dreamt for many years of how amazing it would be to make one of these movies with Kevin Williamson at the helm. And now it’s happening, Kevin Williamson is going to direct ‘Scream 7’! This was his baby and it’s his brilliant mind that dreamt up this world. Kevin is not just an inspiration as an artist but has been a dear friend for many years.”
He’ll appear in the ‘Community’ movie that keeps being touted by its cast and has an unknown role in the third season of ‘Yellowjackets.’ And he’s most frequently found making fun of former ‘Community’ co-star and good friend Ken Jeong.
When will ‘Scream 7’ be in theaters?
‘Scream 7’ will release in theaters worldwide via Paramount Pictures on February 27th, 2026.
Ghostface in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream VI.’
(L to R) David Arquette and Courteney Cox in Paramount Pictures “Scream.”
Preview:
Courteney Cox will be back as Gale Weathers for ‘Scream 7.’
Original writer Kevin Williamson is on board to direct.
Neve Campbell is returning to star as Sidney Prescott.
It has apparently ‘Scream 7’ Casting Week this week, as several actors have been added to the latest entry in the horror thriller franchise, which has original ‘Scream’ writer Kevin Williamson aboard direct.
And to round things off, there is news today via Variety that franchise veteran Courteney Cox is joining fellow stalwart Neve Campbell in the new movie.
Courteney Cox (Gale Weathers) stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream VI.’
Cox, of course, plays Gale Weathers, the sharp and ambitious news reporter-turned-author who’s often found herself at the center of the Ghostface killings, and has appeared in every instalment to date.
Her return looked less likely back in September, with Cox telling Variety that she was not officially signed on, but seemingly happy with the choice of Williamson to direct, admitting that “it’s going to be fun.” It appears she’s found a good reason to come back (probably several million reasons).
Williamson will be working from a script by Guy Busick and James Vanderbilt, who worked on the most recent outings.
xn1Putz3RwmjIHJsUIliM6
What’s the story of ‘Scream 7’?
(L to R) Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox and Executive Producer Kevin Williamson on the set of Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s 2022’s ‘Scream.’
There are no details yet on what Williamson’s film will feature, but with Campbell’s return as Sidney Prescott and Isabel May playing Sidney’s daughter, chances are the Prescott family will be in the spotlight.
This also opens the door up for a potential return from Detective Mark Kincaid, played by Patrick Dempsey, who met Sidney when he was investigating the murders that happen in ‘Scream 3’ and ended up married with a family.
Kincaid has not been glimpsed since that movie, but Sidney does call him on the phone in one of the more recent entries. Dempsey has yet to be confirmed as coming back.
Then, Variety brought word that Mason Gooding, who played Chad Meeks-Martin in both 2022’s ‘Scream’ and 2023’s ‘Scream VI,’ would return as the character in the new movie.
There’s no word yet on whether Jasmin Savoy Brown, who appeared as Chad’s sister Mindy in both movies, will join her screen sibling.
Director Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, left, and Director Tyler Gillett on the set of Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream VI.’
To this point, the development of the next ‘Scream’ installment has been more trouble than a scorned lover throwing on a cloak and a Ghostface mask to hunt their friends.
Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett effectively rebooted the ‘Scream’ franchise with 2002’s ‘Scream’ and followed it up with this year’s ‘Scream VI’, opted to move on after their second effort, choosing instead to make vampire movie ‘Abigail’, which arrived this year.
Production company Spyglass Media Group found a suitable replacement in Christopher Landon, who previously directed the ‘Happy Death Day’ movies and ‘Freaky’, but then things started to go wrong.
Melissa Barrera fired from ‘Scream VII’
(L to R) Melissa Barrera (Sam Carpenter) and Jenna Ortega (Tara Carpenter) stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream VI.’
While calling for a cease fire in the conflict might not seem all that controversial, some of the reposts on Barrera’s Instagram account have edged over into potentially troubling opinions.
‘Scream’ production company Spyglass issued a statement on the situation:
“Spyglass’ stance is unequivocally clear: We have zero tolerance for antisemitism or the incitement of hate in any form, including false references to genocide, ethnic cleansing, Holocaust distortion or anything that flagrantly crosses the line into hate speech.”
That was followed by word that her co-star, Jenna Ortega, would not then be returning fir the new movie. Ortega’s departure was chalked up to schedule clashes with Season 2 of Netflix hit series ‘Wednesday’, and indeed the decision was reportedly made months before Barrera’s statement and subsequent firing. The timing, though, remains somewhat suspicious.
With his main stars absent, Landon also quit the movie, citing that it had become a nightmare in development.
Neve Campbell talks ‘Scream’ return
Neve Campbell (“Sidney Prescott”) stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s “Scream.”
Here’s what Campbell had to say on the news of her return:
“I’m very happy and proud to say I’ve been asked, in the most respectful way, to bring Sidney back to the screen and I couldn’t be more thrilled!!! Well actually I could. While I’ve been so incredibly lucky to make these films with both the master of horror Wes Craven and the wonderfully talented Matt and Tyler team, I’ve dreamt for many years of how amazing it would be to make one of these movies with Kevin Williamson at the helm. And now it’s happening, Kevin Williamson is going to direct ‘Scream 7’! This was his baby and it’s his brilliant mind that dreamt up this world. Kevin is not just an inspiration as an artist but has been a dear friend for many years.”
McKenna Grace is the latest recruit for the ‘Scream’ franchise.
Original writer Kevin Williamson is on board to direct.
Neve Campbell is returning to star as Sidney Prescott.
The casting cavalcade for the next ‘Scream’ outing continues to roll onwards. Following a troubled development period (read more about that below), it seems to be firmly on track, with original writer Kevin Williamson stepping up to direct and main star Neve Campbell returning as Sidney Prescott.
And in a bit of breaking news, Variety brings word that Mason Gooding, who played Chad Meeks-Martin in both 2022’s ‘Scream’ and 2023’s ‘Scream VI,’ is returning as the character in the new movie.
There’s no word yet on whether Jasmin Savoy Brown, who appeared as Chad’s sister Mindy in both movies, will join her screen sibling.
What’s the story of ‘Scream 7’?
Neve Campbell (“Sidney Prescott”) stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s “Scream.”
There are no details yet on what Williamson’s film will feature, though given that Campbell is back as Prescott and May is playing her daughter, you know it’ll factor into the Prescott family.
This also opens the door up for a potential return from Detective Mark Kincaid, played by Patrick Dempsey, who met Sidney when he was investigating the murders that happen in ‘Scream 3’ and ended up married with a family.
Kincaid has not been glimpsed since that movie, but Sidney does call him on the phone in one of the more recent entries. Dempsey has yet to be confirmed as coming back.
What has happened with ‘Scream 7’ so far?
Director Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, left, and Director Tyler Gillett on the set of Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream VI.’
To this point, the development of the next ‘Scream’ installment has been more trouble than a scorned lover throwing on a cloak and a Ghostface mask to hunt their friends.
Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett effectively rebooted the ‘Scream’ franchise with 2002’s ‘Scream’ and followed it up with this year’s ‘Scream VI’, opted to move on after their second effort, choosing instead to make vampire movie ‘Abigail’, which arrived this year.
Production company Spyglass Media Group found a suitable replacement in Christopher Landon, who previously directed the ‘Happy Death Day’ movies and ‘Freaky’, but then things started to go wrong.
(L to R) Melissa Barrera (Sam Carpenter) and Jenna Ortega (Tara Carpenter) stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream VI.’
Melissa Barrera was dropped from the franchise for social media posts supporting Palestine in the tragic, ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.
While calling for a cease fire in the conflict might not seem all that controversial, some of the reposts on Barrera’s Instagram account have edged over into potentially troubling opinions.
‘Scream’ production company Spyglass issued a statement on the situation:
“Spyglass’ stance is unequivocally clear: We have zero tolerance for antisemitism or the incitement of hate in any form, including false references to genocide, ethnic cleansing, Holocaust distortion or anything that flagrantly crosses the line into hate speech.”
That was followed by word that her co-star, Jenna Ortega, would not then be returning fir the new movie. Ortega’s departure was chalked up to schedule clashes with Season 2 of Netflix hit series ‘Wednesday’, and indeed the decision was reportedly made months before Barrera’s statement and subsequent firing. The timing, though, remains somewhat suspicious.
With his main stars absent, Landon also quit the movie, citing that it had become a nightmare in development.
Neve Campbell talks ‘Scream’ return
Neve Campbell (“Sidney Prescott”) stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s “Scream.”
Here’s what Campbell had to say on the news of her return:
“I’m very happy and proud to say I’ve been asked, in the most respectful way, to bring Sidney back to the screen and I couldn’t be more thrilled!!! Well actually I could. While I’ve been so incredibly lucky to make these films with both the master of horror Wes Craven and the wonderfully talented Matt and Tyler team, I’ve dreamt for many years of how amazing it would be to make one of these movies with Kevin Williamson at the helm. And now it’s happening, Kevin Williamson is going to direct ‘Scream 7’! This was his baby and it’s his brilliant mind that dreamt up this world. Kevin is not just an inspiration as an artist but has been a dear friend for many years.”
And the actor has several new movies in the works, including the adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s ‘Regretting You’ opposite Allison Williams, to be directed by Josh Boone. She’ll also be seen in sports biodrama ‘Perfect’ and romantic drama ‘99 Days.’
As for Rechner, he made an impact in ‘Fabelmans’ as Logan, the high school bully of Gabriel LaBelle’s 16-year-old Sammy. He also appeared in comedy drama ‘Ruby’s Choice.’
On the small screen, he was part of the cast for Netflix series ‘Heartbreak High.’
When will ‘Scream 7’ be in theaters?
‘Scream 7’ will release in theaters worldwide via Paramount Pictures on February 27th, 2026.
(Left) Celeste O’Connor in ‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’. Photo: Columbia Pictures. (Right) Isabel May in ‘Run Hide Fight’. Photo: The Daily Wire.
Preview:
Isabel May and Celeste O’Connor are the latest recruits for the ‘Scream’ franchise.
Original writer Kevin Williamson is on board to direct.
Neve Campbell is returning to star as Sidney Prescott.
It appears the ‘Scream’ franchise might finally be back on track after a patch of chaos (more on that below.)
With original writer Kevin Williamson on board to direct the next movie –– that would be ‘Scream VII,’ though all the current reports are writing the title as ‘Scream 7’ –– we now know at least two of the people who will be joining a returning Neve Campbell (who famously declined to appear in the last entry over a low pay offer).
Neve Campbell (“Sidney Prescott”) stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s “Scream.”
There are no details yet on what Williamson’s film will feature, though given that Campbell is back as Prescott and May is playing her daughter, you know it’ll factor into the Prescott family.
This also opens the door up for a potential return from Detective Mark Kincaid, played by Patrick Dempsey, who met Sidney when he was investigating the murders that happen in ‘Scream 3’ and ended up married with a family.
Kincaid has not been glimpsed since that movie, but Sidney does call him on the phone in one of the more recent entries. Dempsey has yet to be confirmed as coming back.
To this point, the development of the next ‘Scream’ installment has been more trouble than a scorned lover throwing on a cloak and a Ghostface mask to hunt their friends.
Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett effectively rebooted the ‘Scream’ franchise with 2002’s ‘Scream’ and followed it up with this year’s ‘Scream VI’, opted to move on after their second effort, choosing instead to make vampire movie ‘Abigail’, which arrived this year.
Production company Spyglass Media Group found a suitable replacement in Christopher Landon, who previously directed the ‘Happy Death Day’ movies and ‘Freaky’, but then things started to go wrong.
Melissa Barrera fired from ‘Scream VII’
(L to R) Melissa Barrera (Sam Carpenter) and Jenna Ortega (Tara Carpenter) stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s ‘Scream VI.’
Melissa Barrera was dropped from the franchise for social media posts supporting Palestine in the tragic, ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.
‘Scream’ production company Spyglass issued a statement on the situation:
“Spyglass’ stance is unequivocally clear: We have zero tolerance for antisemitism or the incitement of hate in any form, including false references to genocide, ethnic cleansing, Holocaust distortion or anything that flagrantly crosses the line into hate speech.”
That was followed by word that her co-star, Jenna Ortega, would not then be returning fir the new movie. Ortega’s departure was chalked up to schedule clashes with Season 2 of Netflix hit series ‘Wednesday’, and indeed the decision was reportedly made months before Barrera’s statement and subsequent firing. The timing, though, remains somewhat suspicious.
With his main stars absent, Landon also quit the movie, citing that it had become a nightmare in development.
Neve Campbell talks ‘Scream’ return
Neve Campbell (“Sidney Prescott”) stars in Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media Group’s “Scream.”
Here’s what Campbell had to say on the news of her return:
“I’m very happy and proud to say I’ve been asked, in the most respectful way, to bring Sidney back to the screen and I couldn’t be more thrilled!!! Well actually I could. While I’ve been so incredibly lucky to make these films with both the master of horror Wes Craven and the wonderfully talented Matt and Tyler team, I’ve dreamt for many years of how amazing it would be to make one of these movies with Kevin Williamson at the helm. And now it’s happening, Kevin Williamson is going to direct ‘Scream 7’! This was his baby and it’s his brilliant mind that dreamt up this world. Kevin is not just an inspiration as an artist but has been a dear friend for many years.”
Coming up, she’ll be seen in sci-fi horror ‘Menace,’ romantic comedy ‘Love Language’ and romantic drama ‘Falling.’
O’Connor played Lucky in the two recent ‘Ghostbusters’ films (‘Afterlife’ and ‘Frozen Empire’), and they were also seen in Sony/Marvel’s ‘Madame Web,’ the Zach Braff-directed drama ‘A Good Person,’ body swap slasher ‘Freaky,’ (ironically, had Christopher Landon stayed, this would have marked a reunion) and the Sundance drama ‘Selah and the Spades.’
Back in February, word first arrived that DC was looking to promote super-powered siblings Zan and Jayna, better known as the ‘Wonder Twins,’ from cartoons and cameos to their own live action movie.
Now we know who will be playing the pair, as ‘Riverdale’s KJ Apa and ‘1883’s Isabel May have landed the lead roles.
Aliens Zan and Jayna, unlike many of their comics stablemates, made their debut on TV in Hanna Barbera animated series ‘The All-New Super Friends Hour’ in 1977. Created by Norman Maurer, they went on to appear on other series before making their debut in comic books based on the show and became part of the wider DC Universe.
They’re best known for their catchphrase, “Wonder Twins power, activate!” and touching hands, leading Jayne to transform into any animal and Zan into any form of water. Which might not seem like the greatest combo when you are extraterrestrial crime fighters.
Still, they do at least have a sidekick, a monkey pal called Gleek, who is intelligent, communicates via sign language and has a stretchable, prehensile tail, which comes in handy.
They’ve rarely been given major attention, popping up on the likes of cartoon series ‘Teen Titans Go!’ and live-action show ‘The Flash’.
Now, though, ‘Black Adam’ writer Adam Sztykiel is the person who will look to bring them up to date even further and make them work on their own. But as is usual for a film like this, the plot is being kept locked behind a shield of secrecy. Sztykiel is also directing the movie.
Wonder Twins Photo Courtesy of DC Comics.
In other DC Comics movie news, Leslie Grace, the star of ‘Batgirl’ has been enthusiastically talking up working on her own superhero saga, with ‘Bad Boys For Life’ directors Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah now shepherding the movie through post-production.
As part of an interview with Variety, Grace explained that the mood on set shifted noticeably when Michael Keaton arrived in his Batman suit. “Our directors were like two little kids,” she laughs. “They’re legit Batman nerds openly. He’s Batman, man! I couldn’t even believe that I was sharing space with Batman. I want to say more, but I can’t. It was insane, surreal, incredible. It was the stuff of dreams really.”
And despite opining about the night shoots and squeezing into her costume, Grace seems excited to continue on to a sequel, even if she offers a caution that the initial outing must still be a success. “We got to see this first one first,” she says.
“But there’s definitely some talks about what it could be. I’ve seen some of what we’ve shot, obviously in the playback and stuff like that, and it’s insane. We’ve already been talking about where we do take this from here, because there’s so much that happens in this film. There are a lot of different themes in the plot that we touch on. It’s not just the action. There’s a love story. There’s this father-daughter relationship. There’s looking at the world through a lens that isn’t just black and white and seeing the color and the spectrum between things.”
