What Happened
Jenna Ortega, known for her role as Tara Carpenter in the Scream franchise, will not be returning for the upcoming installment, Scream 7. This news follows the earlier announcement of Melissa Barrera’s exit from the series, which was reportedly linked to her controversial social media posts regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict. However, Ortega’s departure is stated to be unrelated to Barrera’s firing, as confirmed by Deadline.
Why It Matters
The absence of both Ortega and Barrera marks a significant shift in the franchise, which has relied on its core cast for continuity. The Scream series has been a staple in the horror genre, and the changes in its lineup could impact audience reception and box office performance. With Paramount and Spyglass aiming for a conservative $40 million domestic opening for Scream 7, the franchise’s ability to adapt to these changes will be closely monitored.
What’s Next
As the production of Scream 7 progresses, the creative team faces the challenge of reshaping the narrative without key characters. Meanwhile, Ortega is set to continue her role in Netflix’s Wednesday, which has recently confirmed the start of production for its third season. The addition of new cast members, including Eva Green, suggests a promising direction for her ongoing projects.
