‘Scream 7’ Will See the Return of a ‘Scream VI’ Survivor

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As a long-time connoisseur of horror flicks, I must admit that the news of Mason Gooding returning to the “Scream” franchise as Chad Meeks-Martin has me both thrilled and slightly apprehensive. On one hand, it’s heartening to see a familiar face from the revamped series making a comeback, especially since the actor has proven his mettle in portraying the character. However, the absence of the other members of the “Core Four” leaves me with a bittersweet feeling.

One prominent actor from the slasher series sequels “Scream” and “Scream VI” has agreed to reprise his role, once again battling Ghostface in “Scream 7“. This film is the official sequel of the Scream franchise, set for release in 2026. He is the first among the four main stars, known as the “Core Four”, to be confirmed for a return. The Core Four have been leading the series since 2022’s “Scream”, having survived encounters with one of modern horror’s most recognized killers. The other members of this group include Melissa Barrera and Jenna Ortega, who are not anticipated to return, and Jasmin Savoy Brown, who plays Gooding’s on-screen twin sister in the series.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, Courteney Jamison Gooding is set to reprise his role as Chad Meeks-Martin in the upcoming sequel of “Scream,” directed by Kevin Williamson. In the series, Chad is Mindy’s twin and they are the nephews of Randy Meeks, the movie enthusiast from the first two Scream films who met his end in Scream 2. Mindy has inherited her uncle’s passion for cinema, and her horror expertise has been crucial in helping the group stay alive in the last two movies. Unfortunately, Chad isn’t as well-versed as his sister, but he has miraculously survived not just one but two brutal attacks by Ghostface – a likely nod to David Arquette’s character Dewey surviving multiple assaults as well.

Among the original key players, known as the “Core Four,” none are anticipated to rejoin. Barrera was let go from production following her contentious social media comments, and Ortega opted to step down too. At present, only Brown continues with the team. Frankly, it’s challenging to envision a new Scream movie without Mindy, but then again, it was unexpected for the group to disband in the first place.

Will ‘Scream 7’ Be a Desperate, Nostalgic Attempt to Bring the Horror Franchise Back From the Brink?

Mason Gooding has joined an already impressive ensemble. Neve Campbell is expected to resume her character Sidney Prescott following a hiatus in 2023’s “Scream VI.” Also returning are Mckenna Grace, Isabel May, Celeste O’Connor, and others. There’s a strong possibility that Roger L. Jackson, the voice behind Ghostface, will be back for “Scream 7” (provided no one attempts to replicate a voice using AI technology, potentially causing chaos). If Courteney Cox doesn’t appear as Gale Weathers in the next film, Jackson would be the sole original cast member from the “Scream” series to feature in all the movies. However, we prefer not to venture into speculation at this stage.

This time around, Kevin Williamson, known for penning the scripts for “Scream,” “Scream 2,” and “Scream 4,” will be taking on the director’s role. The news has everyone excited about Williamson’s involvement, as the franchise is expected to revert back to its original essence. However, unlike before, he won’t be writing this film. Instead, one of the co-writers for the 2022 “Scream” and upcoming “Scream VI,” Guy Busick, will handle the screenplay duties. Notably, James Vanderbilt, who has typically collaborated with Busick on these projects, will only serve as a producer this time.

Essentially, Scream 7 might delve into the origins of the series initiated by Wes Craven, or it may be an effort to resurrect a seemingly lifeless horror icon that others believe needs a rest. Regardless, it’s expected to stir up controversy as a sequel. Neve Campbell’s inclusion in the cast ensures continuity without altering the existing narrative, and Scream 7 will likely adhere to the timeline established by the newer generation of Scream films. However, the crucial question remains: will we see the return of Stu Macher?

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2024-12-17 16:32