Everything You Need to Know About 'Scream 7': Release Date, Cast Changes & More
The franchise that gave us one of the most recognizable horror villains in history is preparing for a comeback.
The seventh installment of the cult Scream franchise is more than just another sequel – it's a true reboot with the return of legendary characters, a new creative team, and a new take on Sidney Prescott's life.
After a series of scandals, dismissals, and creative differences, the project has finally found stability. Here's what we know so far about Scream 7.
When Will 'Scream 7' Be Released?
Scream 7 is scheduled to premiere on February 27, 2026.
The creators announced the date in 2024, long before production issues died down and a director was chosen.
The Backstory of the 'Scream' Franchise and Its Previous Movies
Scream premiered in 1996. Wes Craven and Kevin Williamson revolutionized the horror genre by creating a movie that mocked slasher tropes while setting a new standard.
Craven's four films set the tone, and after his death in 2015, the franchise went on hiatus for seven years. In 2022, a revival occurred when directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett released Scream, featuring new characters: sisters Sam and Tara, played by Jenna Ortega and Melissa Barrera.
While the movie received mixed reviews, the sixth installment, set in New York City, has already received critical acclaim. The franchise seemed to be experiencing a second wind, however, behind the scenes, a crisis was brewing.
Changes to the Casting and Team of 'Scream 7'
The story of the seventh movie is worthy of its own production thriller script. In the summer of 2023, Bettinelli-Olpin and Gillett left the project due to scheduling conflicts with Abigail.
Months later, Spyglass terminated Melissa Barrera's contract because of her political statements on social media. Jenna Ortega followed suit, and Christopher Landon, who replaced the duo as director, also didn't stay long.
In March 2024, Kevin Williamson, the screenwriter of the original movies, took over as director. Following him, Neve Campbell also returned.
What Will 'Scream 7' Be About?
Although the plot is being kept under wraps, the general direction is known. The story centers on an adult Sidney Prescott trying to build a normal life in a new city. She has a daughter who is the target of the new Ghostface.
Sidney must survive and protect her child, as well as break the cycle of violence once and for all. The creators promise a strong focus on family relationships.
Who Is in the Cast of 'Scream 7'?
Neve Campbell will reprise her role as Sidney Prescott and Courteney Cox will return as Gale Weathers. Most unexpectedly, David Arquette will also appear as Dewey Riley, despite his character having died in the 2022 Scream. How the writers will explain his resurrection remains to be seen.
Matthew Lillard, Mason Gooding, Jasmin Savoy Brown, and Scott Foley will also return to the project. The creators are clearly banking on nostalgia and viewers' willingness to forgive the franchise any plot twists for the sake of reuniting with their favorite characters.
