Jenna Ortega recently opened up about her exit from Scream 7 and explained the real reason behind her decision to leave.
The Wednesday actress starred in the last two installments of the hit horror franchise. However, in the aftermath of Melissa Barrera's firing, it was reported that she was no longer set to reprise her role in the upcoming film.
Jenna Ortega Explains Her Decision to Exit Scream 7
In a recent interview, Ortega opened up about her decision not to return in Scream 7 after starring in the last two installments.
While scheduling conflict was cited as the reason when her exit was initially reported, she clarified that it was related to Barrera's exit and the project was "falling apart" in the aftermath.
Barrera was fired by the producers as a result of her pro-Palestine post on social media.
"It had nothing to do with pay or scheduling. The Melissa stuff was happening, and it was all kind of falling apart," Ortega said.
"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."
Ortega also explained that she is currently seeking original films after starring in franchise/IP projects.
"I’ve happened to join a lot of franchises, which is so great to be a part of legacy. But for me, I’m really trying to prioritize new directors and original stories," she said.
"I know on the outside, maybe people are looking at my choices like, 'Man, what the hell is this girl doing?' I never thought I would do a movie with unicorns. But an original script is exciting. If I can help get it made, I love to do that."
What to Expect in Scream 7
Scream 7 is still moving forward without Ortega and Barrera's involvement, with Kevin Williamson directing the installment. So far, the plot details are currently being kept under wraps.
The cast includes Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox, Mason Gooding, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Roger L. Jackson, Joel McHale, Isabel May, Anna Camp, Mark Consuelos, Ethan Embry, Asa Germann, Mckenna Grace, Celeste O'Connor, and Sam Rechner.
David Arquette, Matthew Lillard, and Scott Foley are also set to reprise their roles from the previous films, despite their characters already being killed off as well. It is unknown how they will be brought back in the upcoming film.
Scream 7 is slated for release in theaters on February 27, 2026.
What do you think of Ortega's explanation for her exit? Let us know in the comments!
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