Full Breakdown
Pro-Palestine Protests Mark "Scream 7" Premiere Amid Controversy
2/26/2026, 8:43:22 PM
Protests Outside Paramount Studios
On February 25, 2026, the premiere of "Scream 7" at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles was overshadowed by a protest organized by groups including Entertainment Labor for Palestine, CODEPINK LA, and Jewish Voice for Peace-Los Angeles. Approximately 25 demonstrators gathered outside the venue, calling for a boycott of the film in support of Palestine. Protesters waved Palestinian flags and chanted slogans such as “Free, free, Palestine!” and “Cancel Paramount+,” while holding signs that accused the studio of maintaining a blacklist against actors who criticize Israel.
Background of the Controversy
The protests were largely in response to the firing of actress Melissa Barrera from the "Scream" franchise in late 2023. Barrera was dismissed after posting critical comments about Israel's actions in Gaza following the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. In her posts, she described Israel's actions as “genocide and ethnic cleansing.” The production company, Spyglass Media Group, stated it had “zero tolerance for antisemitism or the incitement of hate,” which they cited as the reason for her termination.
Barrera's firing led to significant upheaval within the film's production. Co-star Jenna Ortega and director Christopher Landon also exited the project, with Ortega later acknowledging that the film was “falling apart” without Barrera. Neve Campbell was brought back to reprise her role as Sidney Prescott, while Kevin Williamson, who wrote the original "Scream," was appointed as the new director.
Official Statements & Responses
During the premiere, Kevin Williamson addressed the protests, emphasizing the importance of free speech and the right to protest. He stated, “We live in America. Everyone has a right to protest and everyone should be heard.” He expressed sympathy for the demonstrators but questioned whether boycotting Paramount+ was an effective means of protest. Williamson remarked, “My heart goes out to them. I don’t know if canceling Paramount+ is the way to do it.”
Barrera appeared to respond to the protest on social media, posting “I see you” along with a heart emoji, indicating her support for the demonstrators.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the film's production decisions have voiced concerns about the industry's treatment of pro-Palestinian voices. Nino Testa, an organizer of the boycott, stated, “We refuse to let the franchise we love be used as propaganda for a genocide.” The protest aimed to highlight what they perceive as Hollywood's complicity in silencing dissent regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
What's Next
"Scream 7" is set to be released in theaters on February 27, 2026. The film follows Sidney Prescott as she attempts to lead a quiet life with her daughter, only to face the return of Ghostface. The ongoing fallout from Barrera's firing and the protests may continue to influence public perception and box office performance as the film debuts.
