Scream Icon Lillard Returns in Sequel

Matthew Lillard Returns for Scream 7

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

The announcement marks a partial reunion of the original Scream cast, with Lillard joining Neve Campbell (reprising her role as Sidney Prescott) and Courteney Cox. Other cast members include Scott Foley, Mason Gooding, and Jasmin Savoy Brown.

This is significant news for a film that faced considerable production hurdles. Melissa Barrera was dismissed from the project in November 2023 following social media controversy. Jenna Ortega also departed, leaving both Carpenter sisters absent from the sequel. Further complicating matters, director Christopher Landon left the project in December 2023, citing a difficult experience. Kevin Williamson, writer of the first, second, and fourth Scream films, has since taken over directing duties.

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While Radio Silence, the directing duo behind Scream and Scream 6, stepped away from Scream 7 in August 2023, they remain involved as 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.