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Lincoln Village Today
By the People, for the People
Scream Queen Neve Campbell Returns for Scream 7 After Salary Dispute
The original final girl refused to return for Scream VI over pay disparity concerns.
Published on Feb. 25, 2026
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Actress Neve Campbell, who has played the lead role of Sidney Prescott in the Scream horror franchise since 1996, initially declined to return for Scream VI due to salary negotiations that she felt did not properly value her contribution to the series. After a public outcry from fans, Campbell has now signed on to reprise her iconic role in Scream 7, reportedly securing a $7 million payday.
Why it matters
Neve Campbell's stand on her worth as the central figure of the Scream franchise highlights the ongoing pay disparity issues that female actors often face, even in well-established roles. Her decision to walk away from Scream VI until she was offered fair compensation sparked a conversation about the challenges women in Hollywood encounter when advocating for pay equity.
The details
When the producers of Scream VI failed to offer Campbell a salary commensurate with her status as the long-running franchise's lead actress, she made the difficult decision to not return for the sixth installment. Campbell told Deadline, "As a woman, I have had to work extremely hard in my career to establish my value, especially when it comes to Scream." After her departure, the production of Scream 7 faced numerous setbacks, including the firing of co-star Melissa Barrera and the exit of director Christopher Landon. Ultimately, Campbell's return to the series for the seventh film has reignited fan excitement, underscoring her indispensable role within the Scream universe.
- In 2022, Neve Campbell announced her departure from Scream VI after salary negotiations fell through.
- In 2024, Melissa Barrera was fired from Scream 7 after supporting Palestine, and Jenna Ortega departed due to "scheduling issues".
- In 2026, Neve Campbell signed on to reprise her role as Sidney Prescott in Scream 7, reportedly securing a $7 million payday.
The players
Neve Campbell
An acclaimed actress who has played the lead role of Sidney Prescott in the Scream horror franchise since 1996.
Melissa Barrera
An actress who starred in Scream VI but was later fired from Scream 7 after voicing support for Palestine.
Jenna Ortega
An actress who appeared in Scream VI but departed Scream 7 due to "scheduling issues".
Christopher Landon
The director who pulled out of Scream 7 during the production turmoil.
What they’re saying
“When I made that decision, I just didn't think I could live with myself walking on set.”
— Neve Campbell, Actress (CBS Mornings)
“I just knew that my value to this franchise was bigger than what had been offered. For me, I needed to make that choice.”
— Neve Campbell, Actress (CBS Mornings)
“Put some respect on the queen.”
— YouTube user (YouTube)
What’s next
The release date for Scream 7, featuring Neve Campbell's return as Sidney Prescott, has not yet been announced.
The takeaway
Neve Campbell's stand on her worth as the lead actress in the Scream franchise has resonated with fans and sparked important conversations about pay equity for women in Hollywood. Her decision to return for Scream 7 after securing fair compensation underscores the value she brings to the iconic horror series.
