April 8, 2025: Actress Jenna Ortega has clarified the true reason behind her exit from Scream 7, revealing that it wasn’t due to the previously reported scheduling conflict. Ortega, who portrayed Tara Carpenter in Scream (2022) and Scream VI (2023), explained that her departure was influenced by creative differences rather than scheduling or pay issues.
“It had nothing to do with pay or scheduling,” Ortega shared. “The Melissa stuff was happening, and it was all kind of falling apart. If Scream VII wasn’t going to be with that team of directors and those people I fell in love with, then it didn’t seem like the right move for me in my career at the time.”
The “Melissa stuff” Ortega referenced involved her co-star Melissa Barrera, who was fired from Scream 7 after controversial social media posts about the Israel-Palestine conflict. The news of Ortega’s departure came shortly after Barrera’s dismissal, leading to speculation that Ortega’s exit was a show of support for Barrera.
Barrera had faced backlash for her tweets expressing support for Palestine and criticizing Israel, which led to her firing. Franchise producer Spyglass Media Group issued a statement condemning antisemitism and hate speech, emphasizing their zero-tolerance policy.
Following Barrera’s exit, Scream 7 director Christopher Landon also stepped down, sharing his disillusionment with the situation on social media. The film has since moved forward with Kevin Williamson, the original screenwriter of the franchise, taking the reins as director. Scream 7 will also see the return of Neve Campbell, a franchise icon.
Ortega’s candid explanation sheds light on her decision and the behind-the-scenes turmoil surrounding the franchise.