Jenna Ortega Reveals Real Reason for Leaving Scream Franchise

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For quite some time now, the horror genre has been experiencing a resurgence, much to the delight of horror enthusiasts such as myself. During this revival, numerous top-tier horror films have received follow-ups, including Wes Craven’s Scream, with a seventh installment in production at present. Jenna Ortega recently shared her reasons for stepping away from the role of Tara Carpenter within the slasher series.

Information regarding Scream 7 is scarce, yet confirmed that neither character Ortega nor Melissa Barrera, who played the Carpenter Sisters in the previous two films (available on Paramount+), will be part of this upcoming horror movie. Despite this, excitement for the film remains undimmed. However, it’s disappointing to know that these two ‘Scream Queens’ won’t return. In an interview with The Cut about her new movie Death of a Unicorn, Ortega shared her reasons behind her decision.

There were no connections to compensation or scheduling issues; instead, the situation surrounding Melissa was causing turmoil, and things were becoming chaotic. If Scream VII wasn’t going to be led by that particular directorial team, which I had grown fond of, it didn’t seem like an appropriate career decision for me at that moment in time.

It appears that Jenna Ortega decided not to join Scream 7, contrary to initial claims of scheduling conflicts with Wednesday Season 2. This decision might have been influenced by Melissa Barrera’s dismissal from the film and the departure of the Radio Silence directors.

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Due to Jenna Ortega’s rising stardom over the past few years, it seems like her career path could take her to any exciting direction. Considering this, along with the behind-the-scenes adjustments regarding Scream 7, and her choice not to reprise her character Tara for the upcoming film in the cherished series.

In 2023, it came to light that Radio Silence wouldn’t be returning to direct Scream 7; instead, the role was temporarily filled by Christopher Landon. However, he too stepped away from the project. Interestingly, this decision was made after Ortega and her onscreen sister decided to part ways from the upcoming slasher movie.

In the upcoming “Scream 7”, many original characters are expected to return. However, it seems that the absence of Sidney Prescott (Ortega) might significantly impact the film, given that the last two installments primarily revolved around Sam and Tara’s relationship. When Neve Campbell, who plays Ortega, left “Scream VI” due to a payment disagreement, her role in the franchise became even more evident.

Ultimately, Jenna Ortega and the Scream series should continue thriving, given that Campbell will reprise her role as Sidney in Scream 7, with original writer Kevin Williamson taking on directing duties. We’ll have to wait and see if the Carpenter sisters are referenced or featured in any way in the upcoming sequel.

The upcoming movie titled “Scream 7” is projected for a theater release on February 27th, 2026, thus it does not fall under the category of movies scheduled for release in 2025.

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2025-04-07 19:12