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

This is significant news for a film that faced considerable production challenges. Melissa Barrera was dismissed from the project in November 2023 following social media controversy, and Jenna Ortega also opted out, removing both Carpenter sisters who were central to the 2022 Scream installment.

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Further complicating matters, director Christopher Landon departed in December 2023, citing a difficult experience. Kevin Williamson, writer of the first, second, and fourth Scream films, has since taken the directorial reins.

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 films, returns to pen the screenplay.

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