Jenna Ortega Discusses Departure from Scream 7 Due to Behind-the-Scenes Changes
In a recent interview, Jenna Ortega shed light on her unexpected decision to exit the upcoming film Scream 7. This development comes in the wake of her co-star Melissa Barrera being removed from the franchise due to her statements regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Reasons for Departure
Ortega clarified, “It had nothing to do with pay or scheduling,” when speaking with The Cut. She emphasized that the circumstances surrounding Barrera’s dismissal contributed significantly to her decision, stating, “The Melissa stuff was happening, and it was all kind of falling apart.”
Impact of Directorial Changes
Following Ortega’s departure, directors Tyler Gillett and Matt Bettinelli-Olpin also withdrew from their roles in the film. Ortega remarked, “If Scream VII wasn’t going to be with that team of directors and those people I fell in love with, then it didn’t seem like the right move for me in my career at the time.” This shift indicates a broader upheaval within the project’s creative team.
Background on Melissa Barrera’s Firing
Barrera was removed from her role as Sam Carpenter after advocating for a ceasefire on social media amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The production company, Spyglass Media Group, stated their “zero tolerance for antisemitism or the incitement of hate in any form,” which led to her dismissal from the franchise.
Future of Scream Franchise
Despite the challenges faced, Scream 7 is moving forward with some original cast members returning. Neve Campbell will reprise her iconic role as Sidney Prescott, marking her return to a franchise that began in 1996. Kevin Williamson, the franchise creator, will also direct the new installment, slated for release on February 27, 2026, with Guy Busick writing the script.
Other returning cast members include Courteney Cox as Gale Weathers and Mason Gooding as Chad Meeks-Martin. New additions to the cast include Isabel May, who will play Sidney’s daughter, along with Celeste O’Connor, Asa Germann, Mckenna Grace, Sam Rechner, and Anna Camp in undisclosed roles.