Scream 7: OG Scream Star Matthew Lillard Returns

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 wondering how Lillard's involvement is possible, given the events of the first film. Will he reprise his role as Stu, or take on a new character? The details remain shrouded in mystery, though Lillard hinted at his participation in 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 hurdles. Melissa Barrera was dismissed from the project in November 2023 following controversial social media posts. 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.

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In December 2023, director Christopher Landon also departed Scream 7, describing the experience as "a dream job that turned into a nightmare." Kevin Williamson, writer of the first, second, and fourth Scream films, subsequently assumed the directorial role.

Radio Silence, the directing duo behind Scream and Scream 6, announced in August 2023 their withdrawal from Scream 7, though they remain executive producers. Guy Busick, co-writer of the previous two installments, returns to pen the screenplay.

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