In that second instalment we promised, now we’ll address the question on everyone’s lips:
“What’s going to happen with Scream 7?”
Whilst we don’t know a lot for sure, we can say assuredly that the project is still going ahead, and still eyeing that early 2024 shoot date.
In what is described as a “complete creative reboot,” screenwriters James Vanderbilt and Guy Busick will remain with the project, but completely overhaul the script. However, director Christopher Landon’s continued participation remains unclear.
Following the dismissal of lead Melissa Barrera, their initial pitch is now without a lead character. To that end, a source alleges that Paramount Pictures and Spyglass Media are “keenly eyeing” Neve Campbell and Patrick Dempsey to carry the retooled project forward.
According to reports, Campbell would have a substantial role in the story, possibly returning her to lead status following an extended cameo in 2022’s fifth entry. The actress was absent from 2023’s Scream VI following a salary dispute, a subject that continues to dog Scream 7 rumours, keeping fans decidedly edgy, many believing there is no hope for the film without Campbell’s involvement.
As far as deals, nothing has been signed at this point, with the same source stating “no one is in active negotiations.” This leaves a huge question mark over not only Campbell and Dempsey’s involvement, but also that of Courteney Cox and Hayden Panettiere.
A rumour that persists is that shooting is expected to commence in Spring 2024. Wilmington, North Carolina is the purported location production has settled on, but story and cast details remain ominously sparse.
Certainly, a concerning time to be a Scream fan, after losing two fan favourites and upending the project, we are left completely in the dark as to whether our franchise staples will return. Could Scream survive a complete reboot without any characters we’ve come to adore? Would a studio even consider this? If so, will they alienate the fanbase?
We will be watching this project very closely and report any concrete developments.