The 'Scream' movie franchise faces significant shifts as Jenna Ortega, a key player in the recent success of the series, is not expected to return for the seventh installment, 'Scream VII'. Ortega's exit comes amidst the already tumultuous backdrop following Melissa Barrera's departure from the franchise.
Ortega, who played a central role in the franchise's rejuvenation with 'Scream VI', is stepping away due to scheduling conflicts, primarily her commitment to the second season of Netflix's 'Wednesday'. This decision precedes the recent controversy surrounding Barrera's firing and is unrelated to the ongoing disputes within Spyglass Media, the production company behind 'Scream VII'.
The departure of Ortega, coupled with Barrera's earlier firing due to her social media posts about the Israel-Hamas conflict, poses a significant challenge to the future of the 'Scream' franchise. With two main leads exiting the series, questions arise about the direction and viability of the upcoming film. Despite the success of 'Scream VI', which grossed over $168.9 million globally, the franchise now finds itself at a crossroads.
It's Official
Jenna Ortega is not returning for Scream VII pic.twitter.com/uw3Sxi9MUW — ScreamMovies (@Scream_News_) November 22, 2023
Christopher Landon, the newly appointed director for 'Scream 7', expressed his dismay over the recent developments in a now-removed tweet, indicating the growing uncertainty within the production. Spyglass Media, facing these hurdles, has yet to comment on the future course for 'Scream VII'.
Ortega's rise to fame, especially following her Emmy-nominated performance in 'Wednesday', has made her one of Hollywood's most sought-after young talents. This departure from the 'Scream' series reflects her burgeoning career and the demand for her presence in various high-profile projects.
As the 'Scream' franchise approaches a potential billion-dollar global box office milestone, with its current standing at $911 million through six films, the path forward without Ortega and Barrera remains unclear. The series, which saw a revival with the inclusion of newer stars alongside legacy actors, now faces the challenge of maintaining its momentum and fan base in the absence of its recent key contributors.
With the future of 'Scream VII' hanging in the balance, fans and industry insiders alike await further announcements from Spyglass Media regarding the casting and direction of the beloved horror franchise.
