OG Scream Star Matthew Lillard Is Back for Scream 7

Matthew Lillard is returning for Scream 7. Deadline reported that Lillard, who played the iconic antagonist Stu Macher in the original 1996 Scream, will star in the upcoming sequel.

This news has 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 himself teased his involvement on Instagram (see below).

The original Scream cast is partially reuniting, 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 set to appear.

This is significant news, especially considering the film's tumultuous production. Melissa Barrera was dismissed from the project in November 2023 following social media posts regarding the Gaza conflict. A day later, it was announced that Jenna Ortega would not return, meaning both Carpenter sisters, central to the franchise since 2022's Scream, were no longer involved.

In December 2023, director Christopher Landon also departed Scream 7, 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 in August 2023 that they would not return to direct Scream 7, but remain as executive producers. Guy Busick, co-writer of the previous two films, is returning to pen the screenplay.

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