OG Scream Star Matthew Lillard Is Back for Scream 7

Matthew Lillard is set to return for *Scream 7*, as confirmed by Deadline. Lillard, renowned for his role as the antagonist Stuart "Stu" Macher in the original 1996 *Scream* film, will star in the upcoming installment. The announcement has sparked curiosity among fans about how Lillard can appear in *Scream 7*, considering the fate of his character in the first movie. Whether he will reprise his role as Stu or portray a new character remains a mystery. Lillard himself hinted at his involvement through an Instagram post, which you can see below.

*Scream 7* is shaping up to be a reunion of sorts, with Lillard joining Neve Campbell, who will reprise her iconic role as Sidney Prescott, and Courteney Cox. The film also stars Scott Foley, Mason Gooding, and Jasmin Savoy Brown. This news comes after a challenging development period for the movie, which faced uncertainty following the departure of key cast members and the director.

In November 2023, star Melissa Barrera was let go from the project due to her social media posts about the Gaza conflict. Shortly thereafter, it was announced that Jenna Ortega would not return for *Scream 7*, leaving both Carpenter sisters, who had been central to the series since *Scream* (2022), out of the picture. Additionally, director Christopher Landon stepped down in December 2023, describing his experience as a "dream job that turned into a nightmare." Stepping in to direct is Kevin Williamson, the writer behind the first *Scream* film, *Scream 2*, and *Scream 4*.

The *Scream* and *Scream 6* directing team, Radio Silence, announced in August 2023 that they would not return to direct *Scream 7* but will continue as executive producers. Guy Busick, who co-wrote the previous two films, is back to pen the screenplay for *Scream 7*.

Mark your calendars—*Scream 7* is scheduled to hit theaters on February 27, 2026.