Matthew Lillard Returns as OG Scream Star in Scream 7

Matthew Lillard is set to return for Scream 7, as reported by Deadline. Known for his iconic role as the antagonist Stuart "Stu" Macher in the original 1996 Scream film, fans are buzzing with curiosity about how he will fit into the new movie. Will he reprise his role as Stu, or will he take on a new character? Lillard has teased his involvement on Instagram, adding to the mystery and excitement.

The Scream franchise is bringing back some familiar faces, with Lillard joining Neve Campbell, who will reprise her role as Sidney Prescott, and Courteney Cox. The cast also includes Scott Foley, Mason Gooding, and Jasmin Savoy Brown.

The journey to Scream 7 has been tumultuous. The film faced uncertainty after star Melissa Barrera was fired in November 2023 following her social media posts about the conflict in Gaza. Just a day later, it was announced that Jenna Ortega would not be returning, leaving the Carpenter sisters, central to the series since Scream (2022), out of the picture.

Further complicating matters, director Christopher Landon exited the project in December 2023, describing his experience as a "dream job that turned into a nightmare." However, the film found new direction with Kevin Williamson, the writer of the original Scream, Scream 2, and Scream 4, stepping in to direct.

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

Scream 7 is slated to hit theaters on February 27, 2026, promising another thrilling chapter in the beloved horror franchise.