The ‘Scream’ series faces a significant change as Jenna Ortega, known for her role as Tara Carpenter, will not be returning for the seventh installment of the franchise. This news follows the recent departure of Melissa Barrera from the film.
By August Roberts
A Surprising Turn for ‘Scream 7’
Jenna Ortega’s absence from ‘Scream 7’ marks a notable shift in the franchise’s direction. The decision, as reported by Deadline, was made independent of co-star Melissa Barrera’s recent firing, which was linked to her comments on the Israel-Hamas conflict. Ortega’s exit was discussed even before the actors’ strike in July 2023, indicating a planned change in the series’ cast lineup.
Scheduling Conflicts and New Projects
Ortega’s busy schedule is a primary factor in her not reprising her role. She is set to film the second season of ‘Wednesday’ in Ireland, starting in April 2024 and continuing through the summer. This scheduling conflict makes it impossible for her to participate in ‘Scream 7’, which is still in the early stages of development without a completed script as of November 2023.
Behind-the-Scenes Changes and Controversies
‘Scream 7′ is undergoing more than just cast changes. Christopher Landon is taking over as director, replacing Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett. Additionally, the franchise faced controversy with Melissa Barrera’s removal due to her social media posts about the Israel-Hamas conflict, reflecting the production company Spyglass’ zero-tolerance policy towards antisemitism and hate speech.
Impact on the Franchise’s Future
The ‘Scream’ franchise, rejuvenated in 2022 with its fifth film, now faces uncertainty. With the departure of key cast members like Ortega and Barrera, and the first film without Neve Campbell, ‘Scream 6’, earning $44.5 million on its opening weekend, the highest in the series, the future direction of the franchise is more unpredictable than ever.
The ‘Scream’ franchise is at a crossroads with the departure of Jenna Ortega from ‘Scream 7’. This change, coupled with Melissa Barrera’s exit and the introduction of a new director, signals a significant shift for the series. While these developments bring uncertainty, they also open the door for new narratives and characters to emerge, keeping the franchise fresh and evolving. As fans await further news, the anticipation for the next chapter in the ‘Scream’ saga continues to build.