Entertainment
Matthew Lillard expresses regret for Scream 7 return following Melissa Barrera's firing
The actor stated he felt ashamed for not showing solidarity after Barrera was dropped over Israel-Gaza posts
The short version
- Actor Matthew Lillard stated he felt ashamed and on the wrong side of history for appearing in Scream 7 after co-star Melissa Barrera was dropped from the franchise.[NBC News · Fox News]
- Spyglass Media Group fired Barrera in November 2023 over social media posts regarding Israel, citing a zero-tolerance policy for hate speech and antisemitism.[NBC News · Fox News]
- Barrera had previously criticized returning co-stars, while Scream 7 went on to gross over $200 million globally to become the franchise's highest-earning installment.[Fox News]
Key facts
- Matthew Lillard stated he felt ashamed and ended up on the wrong side of history by filming Scream 7 following Melissa Barrera's firing.[NBC News · Fox News]
- Melissa Barrera was removed from Scream 7 in November 2023 after posting social media statements accusing Israel of genocide and ethnic cleansing.[NBC News · Fox News]
- Spyglass Media Group stated it had zero tolerance for antisemitism or the incitement of hate and denied Barrera was dismissed merely for backing Palestinians.[NBC News · Fox News]
- Paramount reported that Scream 7 became the franchise's highest-grossing release, surpassing $200 million globally after its Feb. 27 premiere.[Fox News]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.