/indigomusic/media/media_files/2025/09/18/feature-matthew-lillard-2025-09-18-12-18-05.png)
Matthew Lillard has reassured horror fans that 'Scream 7' will meet expectations. Appearing at Silver Scream Con in Worcester, Massachusetts, the 55-year-old actor joined franchise veterans Skeet Ulrich, Rose McGowan, and Roger L. Jackson to discuss Kevin Williamson's upcoming sequel.
Lillard expressed his excitement about reprising his role in the seventh instalment, describing the film as fantastic and promising that it would not disappoint long-time fans of the series. He reflected on how surreal it was to finally receive the call from Williamson about returning, noting that he had been waiting nearly 20 years for the opportunity. The actor vividly remembered where he was when he heard the news, recalling the moment as one permanently etched into his memory.
/filters:format(webp)/indigomusic/media/media_files/2025/09/18/matthew-lillard-2-2025-09-18-12-18-05.jpg)
Image Courtesy: People
The actor originally portrayed Stu Macher in Wes Craven's 'Scream' (1996). Stu, alongside Billy Loomis (played by Ulrich), was revealed as one of the Ghostface killers. While his death seemed likely after Sidney Prescott dropped a TV onto his head, it was never officially confirmed, fueling decades of fan speculation about a possible return.
Matthew Lillard Teased a Comeback Before
Matthew Lillard has teased a comeback before, most notably in early 2024 when he posted a video on Instagram referencing one of Stu's iconic lines. His return in 'Scream 7' marks his first major involvement since the original, though he did make cameo appearances in 'Scream 2' (1997) and a voice role in 'Scream' (2022). Ulrich, meanwhile, has reprised his role as Billy in more recent instalments through haunting visions seen by his daughter, Sam Carpenter.
During the convention, Ulrich praised Lillard's casting, emphasising how much his longtime friend had wanted to rejoin the franchise and how thrilled he was when it finally happened.
/filters:format(webp)/indigomusic/media/media_files/2025/09/18/matthew-lillard-2025-09-18-12-18-05.jpg)
Image Courtesy: People
The upcoming 'Scream 7' will also feature several returning stars, including Neve Campbell as Sidney Prescott, Courteney Cox, David Arquette, and Roger L. Jackson as the voice of Ghostface. New cast members include Isabel May as Sidney's daughter, Joel McHale as Sidney's husband Mark, among others, who will reprise their roles from recent films, while Scott Foley and Mark Consuelos join the ensemble.
With Matthew Lillard officially back as Stu Macher, Williamson writing, and Jenny Han directing, fans can expect 'Scream 7' to honour the legacy of the franchise while offering a fresh, terrifying chapter. The film is set to hit theatres on 27th February, 2026.
