The ‘Scream’ franchise by Spyglass Media and Paramount Pictures has not only survived but thrived over the years, managing to carve out its success story. The fifth and sixth entries, released in 2022 and 2023 respectively, had considerable success at the box office. However, the making of ‘Scream 7’ has seen some remarkable rocky turns.
“Scream 7,” set to be the seventh installment in the Scream franchise, was announced as in development on August 3rd, 2023, continuing from where “Scream VI” left off. Uniquely, this film marks Kevin Williamson’s directorial debut in the series. Following the controversial dismissals and departures of key actors from the previous film, “Scream 7” has faced production delays. Initially expected in 2024, the release has been postponed, with the earliest potential release now projected for 2025.
‘Scream 7’ Plot
Details surrounding the sequel have not been released.
Key Takeaways:
– ‘Scream 7’ in production, despite cast changes and challenges.
– Actress Melissa Barrera fired due to controversial social media comments.
– Co-star Jenna Ortega, due to scheduling conflicts and salary disputes, also exits the project.
– Neve Campbell confirmed her return to the franchise alongside hints of Patrick Dempsey’s involvement.
– Original ‘Scream’ screenwriter Kevin Williamson will direct the sequel.
‘Scream 7’ Casting
Cast & Characters
- Neve Campbell as Sidney Prescott
In talks
- Courteney Cox as Gale Weathers
Rumored Cast
- Patrick Dempsey as Mark Kincaid
- Hayden Panettiere as Kirby Reed
- Mason Gooding as Chad Meeks-Martin
- Jasmin Savoy Brown as Mindy Meeks-Martin
- Josh Segarra as Danny Brackett[
- Roger L. Jackson as the voice of Ghostface
Melissa Barrera Exits the Franchise
Melissa Barrera, who joined the franchise as Samantha Carpenter in the fifth installation of ‘Scream’, was terminated from the project on November 21st. According to a Spyglass Media statement, the actress was fired due to her social media remarks on the Israel and Gaza situation, crossing the line into hate speech. Barrera has been unphased by the incident, continuing to express her support at pro-Palestinian rallies.
Jenna Ortega’s Disappointment Over Salary
The shocking news of Barrera’s firing was soon followed by the information of Jenna Ortega, another core cast member in the series, parting ways with the project. Ortega, who plays the title character in Netflix’s Addams Family series ‘Wednesday,’ exited due to conflicts in her shooting schedule for the second season. A week later, it transpired she had also sought a substantial salary hike, which the production house, renowned for their restrictive salary policies, declined.
Return of the Original Faces
With major upheaval in the cast line-up, the producers are speculated to bring Sidney Prescott, the character played by Neve Campbell in the first five Scream films, back to the fray. Reports have hinted at the possible inclusion of Sexiest Man Alive, Patrick Dempsey, who essayed Campbell’s love interest in ‘Scream 3.’ Although Dempsey’s involvement remains unconfirmed, Campbell has confirmed her return to the franchise via Instagram.
Production Shuffles Behind The Scenes
In addition to cast changes, there have been significant changes in the production unit as well. The initial choices to direct the sequel were Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, Tyler Gillett, and Christopher Landon, who have, however, exited due to commitments to other projects. Kevin Williamson, who had a hand in writing the first ‘Scream,’ has been entrusted to direct. This will be Williamson’s second directorial endeavor since his debut in 1999 with ‘Teaching Mrs. Tingle.’
While these developments have added more than a touch of drama to the making of ‘Scream 7’, anticipation remains for the new sequel. With Neve Campbell reinstated and the original screenwriter at the helm, fans are eager to see what the new sequel brings. Despite the bumpy start, the appeal of the ‘Scream’ franchise endures. What remains is to see how it navigates these challenges and the impact it might have on the film’s storyline and appeal.
Development
During promotional interviews for “Scream VI,” directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett expressed hope for Neve Campbell’s return to the franchise, mentioning ongoing discussions with her. By March 2022, a seventh film was officially greenlit, with production scheduled for 2023 under Paramount Pictures, aiming for a release timeline similar to “Scream VI.” In August 2023, Christopher Landon was announced as the director for “Scream 7.”
Barrera Dismissal and Backlash
In November 2023, Melissa Barrera was dismissed from “Scream 7” due to her social media comments supporting Palestinian relief amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. This decision led to Jenna Ortega’s exit, citing scheduling conflicts with “Wednesday.” This marks the first film since “Scream 4” without the Carpenter sisters leading. The dismissal sparked significant backlash, including threats of boycotting the film and public support for Barrera from fans and colleagues.
Christopher Landon’s Resignation as Director
In December 2023, amidst the controversy, Landon resigned from directing “Scream 7,” describing the project as a “dream job turned into a nightmare.” He expressed his hope that the legacy of Wes Craven, the series’ original creator, would continue to thrive despite the turmoil.
Return of Neve Campbell and Kevin Williamson as Director
Neve Campbell announced her return as Sidney Prescott in March 2023, expressing her excitement on Instagram about working under Kevin Williamson’s direction. Simultaneously, Williamson shared his enthusiasm about directing the seventh installment, marking nearly 30 years since his first script for the original “Scream” film. Both highlighted their deep connections to the franchise and its fans.
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