Matthew Lillard: Scream's Unlikely Comeback Star

Matthew Lillard recently reflected on his role in the 1996 film Scream during its 30th-anniversary panel at New York Comic Con. The actor described watching his younger self in the movie as "hilarious," noting his intense performance aimed at winning an Academy Award. Lillard admitted he was trying hard to prove his acting capabilities and earn respect in the early days of his career.

Now, after nearly four decades in the industry, Lillard confidently states he "belongs." He is experiencing a significant career resurgence, which he attributes to perseverance, positive personal conduct, and importantly, the profound impact of connecting with fans at conventions. Lillard also shared that Scream remains his favorite scary movie because it fundamentally changed his life, an outcome none of the original cast or director Wes Craven anticipated given the genre's status at the time.