Scream 6 Directors Say Leaving Franchise Wasn’t Their Choice

It’s been a season of turmoil for the Scream franchise. Earlier this month, Neve Campbell confirmed that she will star in Scream 7, which will be directed by Kevin Williamson, the screenwriter who created the franchise and produced the six previous films. That followed the news that director Christopher Landon left Scream 7 in December after his star, Melissa Barrera, was fired from the franchise in November. And it turns out that Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett–who collectively go by Radio Silence–were also forced to step down as directors of the franchise’s next chapter.

While speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Radio Silence said that their intention was to finish a trilogy of Scream movies featuring Barrera and Jenna Ortega’s Sam and Tara Carpenter. However, Spyglass’ demanding schedule for Scream 7 ultimately meant that they couldn’t helm their new horror movie, Abigail, and close out their third film in the franchise.

“We got exited,” noted Gillett. “We’ll be sad that there’s not going to be an end to the Sam Carpenter story, but in our minds, we designed Scream VI so that the story feels complete,” added Bettinelli-Olpin.

Barrera’s exit from the franchise came over her posts on social media about the war in Gaza, which Spyglass characterized as antisemitic. Shortly thereafter, it was announced that Barrera’s co-star, Ortega, had already left Scream 7 over filming conflicts with Wednesday Season 2. Barrera is starring in Abigail, which will hit theaters next month. And she isn’t entirely ruling out a return to the Scream franchise down the line.

“I’ve learned to never say never, but also a lot of things would have to happen for Sam to come back,” said Barrera. “For now, next page, next chapter, and then we’ll see what the future holds.”