Scream Icon Matthew Lillard Reprises Role 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 take on a new one? Lillard himself hinted at his involvement via an Instagram post (embedded below).

The reunion is significant, bringing together Lillard with Neve Campbell (returning as Sidney Prescott), and Courteney Cox. Scott Foley, Mason Gooding, and Jasmin Savoy Brown are also confirmed for the cast.

This announcement is a major development for a film that faced significant production hurdles. Melissa Barrera was dismissed from the project in November 2023 following social media controversies. Jenna Ortega also departed, leaving both Carpenter sisters absent from the sequel. In December 2023, director Christopher Landon stepped down, describing the experience as a "dream job that turned into a nightmare." Kevin Williamson, writer of the original Scream, Scream 2, and Scream 4, 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, is returning to pen the screenplay.

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

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