Summary
Kevin Williamson comments on Neve Campbell's potential return in Scream 7, expressing his hope that she will be offered a fair salary.
Sidney Prescott is still alive within the franchise, indicating that there is no storytelling barrier preventing her return.
Campbell has explicitly stated that her choice to not come back for Scream 6 was solely based on business reasons, implying that salary is likely the sole hindrance that needs to be resolved.
Kevin Williamson, the writer of the initial four films in the Scream series, responds to the potential return of Neve Campbell in Scream 7. Sidney Prescott, played by Campbell, was originally introduced in Wes Craven's 1996 film and has played a vital role in the franchise, combating Ghostface in five movies. Although Campbell declined to appear in Scream 6, she explained that the salary offered did not reflect her contributions to the series throughout the years.
In a recent interview on the Happy Horror Time podcast (via ComicBook.com), Williamson expresses optimism for Campbell's return in Scream 7. While he lacks insider information on the likelihood of this happening, he urges the studio to offer her a fair salary. Below is Williamson's complete statement:
"I have immense respect for her standpoint. I completely understand her perspective, as I know her very well. I have deep affection and admiration for her, and I fully support her decision. It is the right choice for her. I hold a great affection for everyone involved in Scream, and all I can say is, compensate her accordingly. If it were up to me, I would provide her with the appropriate compensation. Surely, they can come to a mutually agreeable number that satisfies both parties, and hopefully, they will resolve this in due course."
Will Sydney Prescott Be In Scream 7?
Following the success of Scream 6, a new installment is in the works. While Tyler Gillet and Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, the directors of the 2022 reboot and the most recent film, have now shifted their focus to a Universal Monster movie, Christopher Landon will be taking the reins for Scream 7. Landon, known for his work on Happy Death Day and Freaky, will be in charge of directing duties.
The approach that Landon will bring to the franchise remains uncertain, but Scream 7 might present the perfect opportunity to bring back Campbell. In the latest sequel, it is evident that Sidney is still very much alive within the franchise world. Gale Weathers, portrayed by Courteney Cox, reveals that Sidney left town with her family upon learning of Ghostface's reappearance. Campbell has also expressed that her decision not to return was purely driven by business considerations, suggesting that she would likely reprise her role if an agreeable salary can be reached.
Despite the disagreement over pay, it is evident that Sidney is still highly respected by the important creative individuals involved in the franchise. Both Jenna Ortega and Melissa Barrera, for instance, have praised Campbell's significant influence on the franchise, with the latter describing the rejection of the salary offer as "courageous". Whether Campbell will appear in Scream 7 is yet to be determined, but it appears that money is the sole obstacle currently.