The iconic final girl, Sidney Prescott, makes her much-anticipated return in the newly released first official trailer for Scream 7, which hit screens on Thursday. Neve Campbell reprises her legendary role, engaging in a chilling phone conversation with Ghostface, who ominously taunts, “Hello, Sidney. Did you miss me?” The interaction hints not only at the franchise’s suspense but also at a personal threat, with Ghostface targeting Sidney’s daughter, Tatum (played by Isabel May). This revelation prompts Tatum to aspire to emulate her mother as a fighter, and the trailer features Sidney imparting crucial survival lessons.
The homage to the series’ history is palpable, with Sidney seemingly naming her daughter after her fallen friend Tatum, a character portrayed by Rose McGowan in the original 1996 film. Courteney Cox also returns as the relentless reporter Gale Weathers, urging Sidney to “unmask this fucker,” showcasing the tenacity that has become a hallmark of the franchise.
Interestingly, the trailer hints at a potentially shocking death involving newcomer Michelle Randolph, who visits the infamous Stu Macher’s house. While we see her perilous moment, typical of the Scream series, it remains uncertain if this scene will lead to an actual death, a hallmark of the franchise’s playful subversion of expectations.
Scream 7 is directed by Kevin Williamson, the writer of the first Scream and its sequels, weaving a narrative that will delve into Sidney’s journey as a mother. This film marks Campbell’s return to the franchise after her absence in Scream VI, which stemmed from salary disputes.
The film has already faced its share of controversies; Melissa Barrera, one of the stars from the previous installments, was ousted following her social media commentary related to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Her departure led Jenna Ortega to withdraw from the project voluntarily. Christopher Landon, initially slated to direct, exited amid backlash from fans following these events.
Fans can also expect the return of franchise veterans, including Matthew Lillard as Stu, and Skeet Ulrich as Billy Loomis. The cast sees a mix of familiar faces and newcomers, including Anna Camp, Joel McHale, and Scott Foley.
In an exciting reassurance to fans, Williamson has affirmed Sidney’s safety, declaring that the character deserves a positive resolution after enduring significant trauma throughout the series. The script for this latest installment has been penned by James Vanderbilt and Guy Busick, who also contributed to the recent films, while the film is scheduled to grace theaters on February 27, 2026.
With elevated violence hinted at for the new Ghostface, and a blend of past and present characters, Scream 7 strives to honor its legacy while carving out a new path forward. The anticipation builds as horror enthusiasts await the next chapter in this beloved franchise.