In the eyes of some fans, the killing blow for “Scream 7” came when star Melissa Barrera was “removed” from the upcoming film due to what a Spyglass spokesperson called “antisemitism and the incitement of hate.” The move was seen by many as a backlash against Barrera in light of pro-Palestine posts she’d shared on Instagram, and the actress later shared a statement noting that she condemns antisemitism, Islamophobia, and “hate and prejudice of any kind against any group of people.” Amidst commentary calling Barrera’s firing the dawn of a new Hollywood Blacklist, news then broke that star Jenna Ortega wouldn’t be returning either, a decision that was reportedly made before her co-star’s departure.
Landon previously spoke up when news of Barrera’s firing was announced, posting on X: “This is my statement. Everything sucks. Stop yelling. This was not my decision to make.” Though the news about Barrera broke just over a month ago, it’s unclear when she was actually fired, and whether Landon’s departure seven weeks ago came beforehand or as a response to the decision. In today’s post, he wrote, “My heart did break for everyone involved. Everyone. But it’s time to move on.” He continued:
“I have nothing more to add to the conversation other than I hope Wes [Craven’s] legacy thrives and lifts above the din of a divided world. What he and [writer Kevin Williamson] created is something amazing and I was honored to have even the briefest moment basking in their glow.”
With no stars or director and a frankly abysmal public image, it’s hard to imagine a path forward for “Scream 7.” Perhaps it’s time to put Ghostface out to pasture.
