Matthew Lillard is set to return for *Scream 7*, bringing excitement to fans of the iconic horror franchise. According to Deadline, Lillard, who captivated audiences as the villainous Stuart "Stu" Macher in the original 1996 *Scream* film, will star in the upcoming sequel. This news sparks curiosity about how Lillard will fit into the storyline, considering Stu's fate in the first movie. Will he reprise his role as Stu or take on a new character? While this remains a mystery, Lillard has hinted at his involvement through an intriguing Instagram post.
The return of Lillard marks a nostalgic reunion for the *Scream* series, as he joins Neve Campbell, who will reprise her role as Sidney Prescott, and Courteney Cox in *Scream 7*. The film will also feature Scott Foley, Mason Gooding, and Jasmin Savoy Brown, adding to the anticipation surrounding the project.
The journey to *Scream 7* has been tumultuous. Initially, the film's future seemed uncertain after a series of setbacks. In November 2023, star Melissa Barrera was let go from the project following her social media posts about the conflict in Gaza. Just a day later, it was announced that Jenna Ortega would not return, leaving the Carpenter sisters, central to the series since *Scream* (2022), out of the picture.
Further complicating matters, director Christopher Landon stepped down from *Scream 7* in December 2023, describing his experience as a "dream job that turned into a nightmare." However, hope was restored when Kevin Williamson, the screenwriter behind the first, second, and fourth *Scream* movies, took over as director. Additionally, Radio Silence, the directing duo behind *Scream* and *Scream 6*, will not helm *Scream 7* but will remain on board as executive producers. Guy Busick, co-writer of the previous two films, is back to pen the screenplay.
*Scream 7* is slated to hit theaters on February 27, 2026, promising a thrilling addition to the beloved franchise.
