OG Scream Star Matthew Lillard Is Back for Scream 7

Matthew Lillard Returns for Scream 7

Deadline reports that Matthew Lillard, the iconic antagonist Stuart "Stu" Macher from the original 1996 Scream, will star in Scream 7. This news has sparked much speculation among fans, as Stu's fate in the first film raises questions about Lillard's role in the sequel. Will he reprise his role as Stu, or will he portray a new character? Lillard himself hinted at his involvement via an Instagram post (embedded below).

The announcement marks a reunion of sorts for the original Scream cast, with Lillard joining Neve Campbell (reprising her role as Sidney Prescott) and Courteney Cox. Other cast members include Scott Foley, Mason Gooding, and Jasmin Savoy Brown.

The news is significant, given the film's turbulent production history. In November 2023, Melissa Barrera was dismissed from the project following social media controversies. A day later, Jenna Ortega's non-return was confirmed, removing both Carpenter sisters, central figures since 2022's Scream, from the cast. Further complicating matters, director Christopher Landon departed in December 2023, citing a difficult experience. Kevin Williamson, writer of the first, second, and fourth Scream films, has since stepped in as director.

Radio Silence, the directing duo behind Scream and Scream 6, announced their departure from the Scream 7 directorial role in August 2023, 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.

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