Scream 7 Controversy: Star Firing Leads to Boycott Calls

The highly anticipated Scream 7 has become embroiled in controversy following the dismissal of star Melissa Barrera in November 2023. Spyglass Media Group cited Barrera's social media posts regarding the conflict in Gaza as the reason, alleging they constituted antisemitism and incitement to hate. Barrera, however, condemned both antisemitism and Islamophobia, advocating for peace and human rights.

The fallout from Barrera's firing profoundly impacted Scream 7's production. As she was central to the sequel's storyline, her departure threw plans into immediate disarray. Shortly after, Jenna Ortega, who played Sam Carpenter's sister, also departed, initially attributed to scheduling conflicts but later revealed to be a response to Barrera's firing and the departure of directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett.

Director Christopher Landon also announced his exit a week after Barrera's dismissal, stating the project was no longer the film he signed on to make. The controversy intensified with calls for a boycott, spearheaded by groups like @boycottscream7. In December 2023, this grassroots fan effort explained that Spyglass allegedly made a 'racist firing' to normalize Israeli state violence and stifle protest.

By October 2025, over 20 organizations, including BDS and Jewish Voice for Peace, had officially backed the boycott. Barrera, in a November 2024 interview, reflected on the profound personal difficulty she experienced following her firing. While she acknowledged differing fan opinions on continuing the franchise, she emphasized the importance of acting according to one's values and morals.

Other contributing factors to the backlash include Paramount's broader stance on anti-Israel sentiment, linked to the family of Paramount's head, David Ellison, who is a strong supporter of Israel. Additionally, partnerships for Scream 7 with prediction-market platform Kalshi for 'survival odds' and Meta AI have drawn criticism.

Despite the boycott, early box office tracking for Scream 7 suggests a strong opening, though potentially less than its predecessor, Scream VI. The film's financial performance is expected to be interpreted differently by various factions, with supporters and detractors of the boycott likely claiming victory regardless of the outcome. Regardless of box office success, Barrera's firing has undeniably left a lasting impact on the Scream franchise.