Jenna Ortega Reportedly Exits ‘Scream VII’ Cast Over Pay Dispute and Trilogy Conclusion

The script for ‘Scream VII‘ is undergoing a full rewrite as stars Jenna Ortega and Melissa Barrera won’t be returning.

It was previously reported that Ortega wouldn’t return to ‘Scream VII’ due to her commitment to shooting the second season of Netflix’s ‘Wednesday.’ Rumors also surfaced that Ortega’s decision to not return to the ‘Scream’ franchise was linked to the dismissal of Barrera.

Why is Jenna Ortega Not Returning to ‘Scream VII’?

A new report from THR provides information that Ortega reportedly left the ‘Scream VII’ cast because she was asking for a higher paycheck. The sequel was supposed to mark the end of a rumored trilogy focused on the two Carpenter sisters.

Ortega, who received six figures for previous installments, seeks significant paydays, a departure from the norm in the Scream franchise. She aimed for a high seven-figure salary, anticipating potential resistance from Spyglass.

Christopher Landon will take over as director from Radio Silence’s Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett. As per reports, Radio Silence was interested in directing Scream VII, but their schedule was occupied by a secret Universal Studios monster movie.

The filming for ‘Scream VII’ is set to occur in the first quarter of 2024 in Montreal, Canada, with a wrap-up date around April 19th, 2024. The film’s working title is “Blackbird” and will be set in New York. Neve Campbell is being eyed to return.

Produced by Paramount Pictures, Radio Silence Productions, and Spyglass.

‘Scream VII’ is scheduled to be released in 2025.

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