Courtney Cox returns in Scream 7
The actress is one of the series' mainstays
The cast of "Scream 7" seems to be developing in a great direction. In addition to Neve Campbell, another original of the slasher series is returning: Courteney Cox.
As reported by Variety, the actress will once again play the role of the sharp-witted reporter Gale Weathers – a character who has played a central role in the series since the first installment in 1996. In September, Cox had still been hesitant in an interview. But now everything seems to be wrapped up.
Cox was particularly enthusiastic about the return of Kevin Williamson, who wrote the script for the first "Scream" movie and will take over the role as director this time. Quote:
"You couldn't make a better choice".
Mason Gooding also returns as Chad Meeks-Martin alongside Courteney Cox. We will also see Isabel May as Sidney Prescott's daughter. "Madame Web" actress Celeste O'Connor is also on board, along with Asa Germann and Mckenna Grace. "Scream 7" will hit the theaters on February 27, 2026.
The current "Scream" films: A new momentum for a cult franchise
With "Scream 5" (2022) and "Scream 6" (2023), one of the most famous horror franchises in film history returned to the big screen. Often referred to as a "requel" and a continuation of the original series, the films combine classic slasher horror with modern elements. They pay tribute to the earlier films while introducing a new generation of characters. This blend of nostalgia and fresh ideas has thrilled both old fans and newcomers.
"Scream 5" (2022): A return to the roots
25 years after the first murders in Woodsboro, the small town is once again haunted by a Ghostface killer. The film, directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, who previously enjoyed success with 'Ready or Not', brings back the iconic slasher series with a modern perspective.
The story begins with Tara Carpenter (Jenna Ortega), who survived the attack by Ghostface. Her sister Sam Carpenter (Melissa Barrera) returns to Woodsboro to support Tara and becomes the central character of the film. Sam discovers that she has a dark connection to the past: she is the daughter of Billy Loomis, one of the original Ghostface killers from the first "Scream".
The script cleverly plays with the rules of the "requel" – a mixture of remake and sequel. Familiar characters such as Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell), Gale Weathers (Courteney Cox) and Dewey Riley (David Arquette) return to support the new heroes in their fight against Ghostface. The film delivers exciting twists and classic slasher action, but also stays true to the series' self-referential roots. The revelation of the killers, who are inspired by toxic fandoms, gives the plot a current and socially critical edge.
"Scream 5" (2022) was a commercial success and proved that the franchise is still relevant after more than two decades.
"Scream 6" (2023): Ghostface in the big city
The sequel "Scream 6" takes the survivors of Woodsboro to New York City. Sam, Tara, and their friends Chad and Mindy Meeks-Martin are starting a new life in the big city. But the peace doesn't last long, because Ghostface reappears and wreaks havoc on the streets of Manhattan.
Directors Bettinelli-Olpin and Gillett expand upon the classic Scream formula by setting the story in the urban jungle. The claustrophobic streets and public transportation of the city provide a fresh stage for horror. Particularly noteworthy is a nerve-wracking scene in the subway, where the killer uses the darkness and anonymity of the city.
"Scream 6" further develops the characters from the previous installment, particularly the relationship between Sam and Tara. Sam struggles with the psychological aftermath of her origins and the events of the last film, while Tara tries to live a normal life.
The revelation of the killer is once again a highlight that surprises fans and deepens the connection to the franchise's history.
Bottom line: a successful revival
"Scream 5" (2022) and 'Scream 6' prove that the franchise is not only surviving but also evolving. The films combine classic horror elements with current topics and offer a successful blend of nostalgia and innovation. With new characters and fresh perspectives, 'Scream' remains a highlight of modern horror cinema.
