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 Scream fans buzzing, especially considering Stu's fate in the first film. Will Lillard reprise his role as Stu, or will he portray a new character? The mystery remains, though Lillard hinted at his involvement via an Instagram post (embedded 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 posts regarding the Gaza conflict. 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 departed in December 2023, citing a difficult production. 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 in August 2023, though they remain executive producers. Guy Busick, co-writer of the previous two installments, returns to pen the screenplay for Scream 7.
Scream 7 is slated for release on February 27, 2026.
