Matthew Lillard Confirms His Return as Stu Macher in ‘Scream 7’ with Shocking Instagram Video Post

Matthew Lillard is making his long-awaited return to the Scream franchise in Scream 7. Fans will remember Lillard as Stu Macher, one of the original Ghostface killers from Wes Craven’s 1996 classic. His return is surprising, considering Stu appeared to meet his end when Sidney Prescott crushed his head with a heavy CRT television. But in horror, death is never a guarantee, and now, nearly 30 years later, he’s back.

How exactly Stu is returning remains a mystery. Some theories suggest he might have survived the attack, while others speculate on a twin brother or even something supernatural. Lillard himself has often hinted that Stu could still be alive, and his Instagram post suggests the same.

He’s not the only seemingly dead character making a comeback—Scream 3’s Roman Bridger, played by Scott Foley, is also returning. What that means for the story is anyone’s guess.

The latest Scream sequel is bringing together a mix of returning and new cast members. Neve Campbell is back as Sidney Prescott, joined by Courteney Cox as Gale Weathers. Mason Gooding and Jasmin Savoy Brown will reprise their roles, while franchise newcomers include McKenna Grace, Isabel May, Celeste O’Connor, Asa Germann, Sam Rechner, Anna Camp, Joel McHale, and Mark Consuelos.

McHale’s role as Sidney’s husband, Mark Evans, has also raised questions about the fate of Patrick Dempsey’s Mark Kincaid.

Kevin Williamson, who wrote the original Scream, is stepping into the director’s chair for Scream 7, with Guy Busick handling the script. Production is already underway, and the film is set to hit theaters on February 27, 2026.

For now, one thing is certain—Stu Macher is back, and Sidney Prescott is once again in danger. How it all plays out remains to be seen, but Scream 7 is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable entries in the franchise.

What do you think? How is Stu returning, and what does it mean for the story? Share your thoughts in the comments below!