The Scream franchise is facing unprecedented turmoil as Jenna Ortega, one of the key figures in revitalizing the series, announces her departure from 'Scream VII.' This shocking development follows the recent termination of Melissa Barrera from the project by Spyglass, leaving the future of the iconic horror movie series hanging in the balance.
The upheaval in the Scream universe intensifies with Jenna Ortega's decision to not return for 'Scream VII,' just a day after Spyglass fired Melissa Barrera. The two actresses, who played sisters in the franchise since the 2022 release, were instrumental in breathing new life into the aging horror series.
With the departure of the two main leads, the future of Scream VII becomes uncertain. Christopher Landon remains the director for now, but the next steps for Spyglass are shrouded in ambiguity, raising questions about the project's continuation and the creative direction it may take.
Contrary to speculation, sources insist that Jenna Ortega's decision to exit the project is unrelated to Melissa Barrera's firing. Ortega's representatives reportedly informed Spyglass before the actors' strike, indicating that the actress, a prominent figure in young Hollywood, would not be returning.
Multiple sources suggest that Ortega's departure could be attributed to contractual or financial disagreements. It is reported that during the renegotiation of her option, the actress either had no deal or demanded what the movie company deemed as an excessive amount. This echoes Spyglass' previous decision not to bring back Neve Campbell for Scream VI after a salary dispute.
Barrera and Ortega, who portrayed sisters in the franchise since 2022's Scream, played pivotal roles in the series' resurgence. The success of Scream VI, grossing $168.9 million globally, and the revamp initiated by 2022's Scream underscored the importance of the dynamic duo in the franchise.
Jenna Ortega's rapid ascent in Hollywood, fueled by her role in Netflix's Wednesday, added another layer to her significance in the Scream franchise. As a linchpin connecting the legacy actors with the newer generation, her departure leaves a notable void in the ensemble.