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 (see below).
The reunion of original Scream cast members continues, with Lillard joining Neve Campbell (reprising her role as Sidney Prescott), and Courteney Cox in Scream 7. Scott Foley, Mason Gooding, and Jasmin Savoy Brown are also confirmed.
This is significant news for a film that faced considerable production challenges. In November 2023, Melissa Barrera was dismissed from the project following social media controversies. A day later, Jenna Ortega's non-return was announced, removing both Carpenter sisters, central to the franchise since 2022's Scream, from the cast.
AnswerSee ResultsFurther complicating matters, director Christopher Landon left the project in December 2023, citing a difficult experience. 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 their departure from Scream 7 in August 2023, but remain as executive producers. Guy Busick, co-writer of the previous two installments, returns to pen the screenplay.
Scream 7 is slated for release on February 27, 2026.