Jenna Ortega has opened up about her departure from ‘Scream 7’, attributing her decision to creative changes in the film. This comes in the wake of Melissa Barrera’s controversial exit from the franchise, following her remarks on the Israel-Hamas conflict.
In a candid interview, Ortega dispelled rumors about monetary or scheduling issues affecting her decision. She shared, “The Melissa stuff was happening, and it was all kind of falling apart.” The departure was further complicated when directors Tyler Gillett and Matt Bettinelli-Olpin also stepped away from the project. Ortega expressed, “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.”
The backlash against Barrera emerged after she called for a ceasefire on social media, leading to her abrupt removal from the cast. Spyglass Media Group justified the decision, citing a zero-tolerance policy for antisemitism or any hate incitement. Despite these upheavals, the production of ‘Scream 7’ continues, with much anticipation surrounding its release.
Kevin Williamson, the original creator, is set to direct the upcoming installment, reigniting his collaboration with Neve Campbell, who returns as Sidney Prescott. The film is scheduled to premiere on February 27, 2026. Courteney Cox will reprise her role as Gale Weathers, and Mason Gooding returns as Chad Meeks-Martin. New talent is joining the cast, including Isabel May as Sidney’s daughter and others in yet-to-be-revealed roles.
Ortega’s exit underscores the evolving dynamics within the ‘Scream’ franchise, hinting at broader implications for the series’ direction. With iconic figures like Neve Campbell and Kevin Williamson at the helm, fans remain hopeful for a fresh yet nostalgic chapter. As Jenna Ortega moves forward in her career, her decision highlights the complexities artists face when personal and professional worlds collide.
