Horror Icon Returns: Matthew Lillard Reprises Role in 'Scream 7'

Matthew Lillard Returns for Scream 7

Deadline reports that Matthew Lillard, the infamous antagonist Stuart "Stu" Macher from the original 1996 Scream, will star in Scream 7. This news has fans speculating about his role, given the events of the first film. Will he reprise Stu, or take on a new character? Lillard himself hinted at his involvement via an Instagram post (embedded below).

The return of Lillard reunites him with Neve Campbell (reprising her role as Sidney Prescott) and Courteney Cox in Scream 7. Other returning cast members include Scott Foley, Mason Gooding, and Jasmin Savoy Brown.

This announcement is significant, given the film's turbulent production. Melissa Barrera was dismissed from the project in November 2023 following social media controversy. Jenna Ortega also departed, meaning neither of the Carpenter sisters, central to the 2022 Scream, would appear. In December 2023, director Christopher Landon left the project, citing a difficult experience. 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 executive producers. Guy Busick, co-writer of the previous two films, returns to pen the screenplay.

Scream 7 is slated for a February 27, 2026 theatrical release.

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