Scream 7: Lillard Steals Show, Other Cameos Questioned

Scream 7, released in 2026, prominently features Matthew Lillard's return as 'Stu,' delivering a performance highlighted by his unsettling video promos. These segments, where 'Stu' taunts Sydney via video calls, are cited as a favorite element by critics, despite Lillard's limited screentime.

The film's narrative culminates in a dual-killer reveal, exposing 'Stu' as a deepfake created by Ethan Embry's character, Marco, under the direction of Anna Camp's Jessica Bowden. This revelation disappoints those anticipating a supernatural return for 'Stu,' though Lillard's energetic performance remains a high point.

Criticism is directed at the inclusion of other cameos, such as Laurie Metcalf and Scott Foley, with questions arising about their narrative purpose. David Arquette's appearance as Dewey is deemed particularly perplexing, with the author suggesting Rose McGowan's Tatum would have been a more logical choice for emotional resonance.

Further confusion surrounds the character Ben, who is presented as a red herring and whose rapid ability to replicate 'Stu's' deepfake technology is noted. The film's focus remains on Sydney's legacy, with the narrative largely centered around her experiences and her autobiography's influence.