AceShowbiz - Scream 7 has shattered franchise records with a strong box office debut, and plans for the next installment are already underway. The film’s Thursday previews grossed $7.8 million, setting a new high for the series. Following this success, executive producer Marianne Maddalena revealed to Variety that Scream 8 is slated to begin filming in fall 2026, although insiders say the exact production start date is still being finalized.

Director Kevin Williamson expressed optimism about the franchise’s future, saying that if Scream 7 continues to perform well, an eighth movie is guaranteed. He has already brainstormed potential storylines, and noted that Paramount is eager to keep the franchise alive. "We the people who make these movies would love to make it because...they're a blast to make and they're so much fun," Williamson stated, emphasizing both creative enthusiasm and studio support.

Longtime series star Courteney Cox shared a more cautious perspective regarding her participation in Scream 8. She admitted uncertainty about returning, saying, "I don't think I can make the next one, but maybe we'll see." Cox also teased the mystery surrounding her character’s fate in Scream 7, hinting that the public doesn’t yet know if she survived the latest installment.

The excitement around Scream 7 is palpable as it aims for a $60 million opening weekend globally. Early audience reactions have been largely positive, reflected in a 77% score on Rotten Tomatoes. However, critical reception has been less favorable, with critics awarding a 36% rating. Controversy also surrounds the film’s release, fueled by protests calling for a boycott after Melissa Barrera was dismissed from the franchise over alleged antisemitic remarks on social media, according to the studio.

While Barrera and fellow star Jenna Ortega did not return for Scream 7, the film welcomed back Neve Campbell, who had been absent from the previous movie due to salary disputes. Alongside Campbell and Cox, the cast includes David Arquette, Matthew Lillard, Mason Gooding, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Anna Camp, Mckenna Grace, Mark Consuelos, and Joel McHale.

The franchise’s trajectory has been notable in recent years. After Scream 4 became the series’ lowest-grossing entry, the franchise lay dormant for over a decade before its 2022 revival, which earned $138 million worldwide. The success continued with Scream VI, which grossed $169 million globally. Now, Scream 7 focuses on Sidney Prescott’s daughter being targeted by Ghostface, and the film is positioned to be another box office triumph.

This ongoing momentum ensures that the Scream series will remain a significant horror franchise for years to come, even if the fates of its characters remain uncertain. Fans can currently catch Scream 7 in theaters as it carves out a promising future for the saga.