Scream 7 Cast Shakeup: Skeet Ulrich Confirms Exit as Billy Loomis

Skeet Ulrich will not appear in the upcoming Scream 7. The actor confirmed his absence in a new interview. This news directly impacts the planned story for the new sequel.

His exit is tied to major creative changes behind the scenes. The return of original writer Kevin Williamson as director reshaped the project entirely.

Ulrich Reveals Story Arc Was Scrapped With Barrera’s Departure

Ulrich spoke to The New York Post recently. He promoted his new film Five Nights at Freddy’s 2. The conversation turned to the Scream franchise’s future.

The actor stated he is “not involved” in the new movie. He expressed excitement for Kevin Williamson’s vision nonetheless. He admitted he has no clue about the new plot.

His return in 2022’s Scream and 2023’s Scream VI was part of a larger plan. He portrayed the spectral vision of Billy Loomis. This character existed in the mind of Sam Carpenter, played by Melissa Barrera.

That three-picture arc is now canceled. Barrera’s high-profile exit from the franchise changed everything. Writers decided Billy Loomis’s story could not continue without Sam.

Franchise Reboot Brings Back Legacy Stars and Dead Characters

The development of Scream 7 has been turbulent. It is now a significant course correction for the series. Neve Campbell is returning as Sidney Prescott after a salary dispute pause.

Courteney Cox will also reprise her role as Gale Weathers. Perhaps the biggest surprise is the return of David Arquette’s Dewey Riley. His character was killed in Scream (2022).

Even more shocking is the return of Matthew Lillard as Stu Macher. Stu famously died in the original 1996 film. Ulrich said he does not know how Stu is returning.

He finds that mystery exciting as a fan. The new film represents a fresh start. It moves beyond the storyline established in the last two sequels.

This major Scream 7 cast restructuring aims to reignite fan passion. The upcoming sequel promises a surprising blend of legacy characters and shocking returns.

Thought you’d like to know

Why isn’t Skeet Ulrich in Scream 7?

His character’s story was tied to Melissa Barrera’s Sam Carpenter. With her departure, the writers scrapped the planned arc for Billy Loomis. The new creative direction under Kevin Williamson did not include him.

How is Matthew Lillard’s Stu Macher returning?

The exact method is currently a closely guarded secret. His character was killed in the first film. This return is one of the most anticipated and puzzling aspects of the new sequel’s plot.

Who is directing Scream 7?

Kevin Williamson, the original screenwriter of the franchise, is directing. He took over after directorial changes and a complete script overhaul. This marks his directorial debut for the series.

When is Scream 7 scheduled for release?

Paramount Pictures has set a release date of February 27, 2026. Filming is expected to begin later this year. The date is subject to change based on production schedules.

Is this a total reboot of the franchise?

Not exactly. It is being described as a re-imagining that brings back original stars. It continues the existing universe but with a significantly altered direction and new central characters.