In a surprising turn of events, the seventh installment of the “Scream” franchise faces a significant overhaul. This development comes in the wake of Jenna Ortega’s departure and the subsequent dismissal of Melissa Barrera. The news was first reported by Variety.
Unexpected Exits and Creative Challenges
Sources close to the project reveal that “Scream 7” is navigating a challenging phase. Jenna Ortega, a rising star since joining the series, has stepped away due to scheduling conflicts with her acclaimed Netflix series “Wednesday.” Following her exit, Melissa Barrera was let go by Spyglass, the film’s producer, over social media posts about the Israel-Hamas war, which were deemed antisemitic.
The film’s director, Christopher Landon, expressed his frustration over these developments in a now-deleted post, highlighting the complexities involved in the decision-making process.
Rethinking ‘Scream 7’
With Ortega’s and Barrera’s departures, the franchise’s writers, James Vanderbilt and Guy Busick, are tasked with drafting a new script. While some elements from the original plan may remain, the narrative will need to introduce new protagonists.
Casting Speculations and Possibilities
As the franchise looks ahead, there’s speculation about potential returns of past stars. Neve Campbell and Patrick Dempsey are among those being considered. Campbell, a key figure in the series, did not participate in “Scream VI” due to salary disagreements but is a desired candidate for the upcoming film. Patrick Dempsey, known for his role in “Scream 3,” is also a possibility, though no official negotiations have been reported.
Moving Forward with ‘Scream 7’
Despite these setbacks, the goal remains to release “Scream 7” in 2025. The production team, led by Landon, is optimistic about crafting a new narrative that stays true to the essence of the “Scream” films, known for their quick production times and minimal reliance on extensive visual effects.
In the ever-evolving world of horror cinema, “Scream 7” promises to adapt and surprise, staying faithful to its roots while embracing new creative directions.
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