Pro-Palestine Activists Urge ‘Scream 7’ Boycott After Melissa Barrera’s Firing
Pro-Palestine activists organized a protest during the premiere of Scream 7 at Paramount Pictures Studios in Los Angeles. Demonstrators showcased their support for Palestine and criticized the film industry’s stance on actors advocating for Palestinian rights.
Protests Against Paramount Pictures
Activists carried signs calling for a boycott of Paramount+, with messages like “Paramount has a BLACKLIST of actors who criticize Israel.” The protest was spearheaded by organizations such as Entertainment Labor for Palestine, CODEPINK LA, Musicians for Palestine, and Jewish Voice for Peace-Los Angeles.
Melissa Barrera’s Controversial Firing
Melissa Barrera, one of the lead actors in Scream 7, was recently dropped from the project by Spyglass Media Group. This decision followed her public expression of support for Palestinians amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. In November 2023, the production company stated its “zero tolerance for antisemitism or the incitement of hate in any form,” prompting her dismissal.
Impact on the Film’s Production
Following Barrera’s exit, her co-star Jenna Ortega also left the Scream franchise, further complicating the film’s production. Christopher Landon, the original director of Scream 7, also exited the project. Despite these significant changes, Spyglass Media Group decided to move forward with the production.
Scream 7 Details
Spyglass Media has appointed Kevin Williamson, the writer of the original 1996 film, to direct the upcoming installment. Scream 7 is scheduled for release on February 27, 2026. Key actors returning include:
- Neve Campbell as Sydney Prescott
- Courteney Cox as Gale Weathers
- Mason Gooding as Chad Meeks-Martin
Newcomer Isabel May will portray Sydney’s daughter. The cast will also feature Celeste O’Connor, Asa Germann, McKenna Grace, Sam Rechner, and Anna Camp.
Conclusion
The call for a boycott highlights ongoing tensions in Hollywood regarding political expressions by actors. The fallout from Barrera’s dismissal raises questions about the implications for artistic freedom within the entertainment industry.
