Matthew Lillard says he feels ‘ashamed’ after returning to ‘Scream 7’ following Melissa Barrera firing

Lillard says excitement over returning to Stu Macher made him overlook what Barrera had experienced

Matthew Lillard has opened up about his decision to return to the Scream franchise after Melissa Barrera was fired from Scream 7, admitting that he now feels ashamed that he did not think more carefully about her situation before accepting the role.

During a Q&A at a 30th anniversary screening of the original Scream, Lillard was asked about the challenges public figures face when speaking about contentious issues. The actor then addressed Barrera’s departure and his own decision to return as Stu Macher for the seventh film.

Lillard said he was extremely excited to return to the franchise and admitted that his enthusiasm meant he did not properly consider what Barrera had experienced. He said he could have refused the opportunity and described himself as embarrassed by the decision, adding that he felt he had made the wrong choice.

Barrera was removed from Scream 7 in 2023 after sharing social media posts expressing support for Palestinians and criticising Israeli actions during the Israel Hamas war. Spyglass, the production company behind the film, said at the time that it had zero tolerance for antisemitism or incitement of hate. Barrera subsequently condemned antisemitism while defending her right to speak about issues she cared about.

Lillard also criticised the lack of public support Barrera received after losing her role. He said he believed she had taken a professional risk by speaking about an issue she considered important and expressed regret that he had not responded differently at the time.

Barrera’s departure contributed to significant changes around Scream 7. Jenna Ortega also left the project, while director Christopher Landon departed during the production upheaval. The film eventually shifted its focus towards Neve Campbell’s Sidney Prescott, with Kevin Williamson returning to the franchise as writer and director.

Lillard ultimately said he still enjoyed making the film, but his comments show that returning to the franchise remains complicated for him when viewed alongside Barrera’s firing.