Anti-Israel Protesters Crash 'Scream7' Premiere, Demand Boycott

Demonstrators call for reinstatement of actress Melissa Barrera over her pro-Palestine social media posts

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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An angry mob of protesters gathered outside the Paramount Studios lot in Los Angeles to demand a boycott of the upcoming horror film 'Scream7' and the reinstatement of actress Melissa Barrera, who was fired from the project over her pro-Palestine social media posts in 2023.

Why it matters

The protest highlights the ongoing tensions between pro-Israel and pro-Palestine factions in Hollywood, as well as the challenges filmmakers face in navigating politically charged issues. Barrera's dismissal from 'Scream7' sparked backlash from some who saw it as a violation of free speech.

The details

The protesters, numbering around 25, carried flags, drums, and signs with slogans like 'Stand for free speech', 'Cancel Paramount+', and 'Boycott Scream 7'. They were also heard chanting phrases such as 'Paramount, Paramount, what do you say?' and 'Palestine will live forever!' Barrera, who led the 2022 and 2023 'Scream' films, was fired from the seventh installment over her social media posts accusing Israel of 'genocide and ethnic cleansing' in its conflict with Hamas. Her dismissal led to the departure of co-star Jenna Ortega and director Christopher Landon, and the film underwent a major overhaul, with original star Neve Campbell ultimately returning as the lead.

  • The protest took place on Wednesday night at the 'Scream7' premiere.
  • Barrera was fired from the film in November 2023 over her pro-Palestine social media posts.

The players

Melissa Barrera

An actress who led the 2022 and 2023 'Scream' films, but was fired from the seventh installment over her pro-Palestine social media posts.

Jenna Ortega

An actress who quit 'Scream7' following Barrera's dismissal.

Christopher Landon

The director who quit 'Scream7' following Barrera's dismissal.

Neve Campbell

The original 'Scream' star who ultimately returned to lead the seventh chapter as Sidney Prescott.

Paramount Studios

The studio behind the 'Scream' franchise, which faced backlash over Barrera's firing.

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What they’re saying

“I see you.”

— Melissa Barrera (Instagram)

What’s next

The future of the 'Scream7' project remains uncertain, as the studio and filmmakers navigate the fallout from Barrera's dismissal and the ongoing protests.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the delicate balance Hollywood must strike when navigating politically charged issues, as artistic decisions can have significant consequences and lead to backlash from various factions. It also raises questions about the limits of free speech and the challenges faced by performers who express controversial political views.