The “Scream” franchise looks like it’s returning from the dead. Following some major controversies in the fall that led to its current cast either being fired or quitting today, Spyglass Media announced that Neve Campbell will officially return to play Sidney Prescott again in “Scream VII.” What’s more, in a move certainly designed to appease angry fans, the slasher will be directed by longtime franchise screenwriter and creator Kevin Williamson.
Campbell previously decided to pass on appearing in “Scream VI” based on pay disparity issues and offers that she said lowballed her “value.” But it seems those issues have been ironed out, and likely with good reason. In the fall, lead “Scream” actress Melissa Barrera was fired from the franchising after making pro-Palestinian comments and protesting the violence in Gaza, which was labeled as anti-Semitic by the studio.
A huge uproar and backlash on social media occurred, and shortly after that, members of the “Scream” creative team exited, seemingly in solidarity though citing other issues. Co-star Jenna Ortega eventually left too, citing “scheduling issues,” and director Christopher Landon (“Freaky”) would bail on the horror sequel as well.
Campbell posted on Instagram today to announce her return after sitting out on the last installment.
She spent most of her post praising Williamson’s promotion to director. “While I’ve been so incredibly lucky to make these films with both the master of horror Wes Craven and the wonderfully talented Matt and Tyler team, I’ve dreamt for many years of how amazing it would be to make one of these movies with Kevin Williamson at the helm. And now it’s happening: Kevin Williamson is going to direct ‘Scream 7’! This was his baby, and it’s his brilliant mind that dreamt up this world. Kevin is not just an inspiration as an artist but has been a dear friend for many years. To the amazing Scream fans, I hope you are as excited as I am.”
Williamson will be directing from a script Guy Busick penned with James Vanderbilt co-writing the story. Busick previously wrote the last two “Scream” movies. It’s unclear if any additional “Scream” cast members are returning and when exactly they hope to get cameras rolling.
Having the franchise creator oversee the franchise, directing it, and bringing back Campbell might be a way Spyglass is trying to mend bridges, but it remains to be seen if the fans will accept it.