Protesters Gather at 'Scream 7' Premiere After Actress Firing

Demonstrators call for boycott of horror film over Melissa Barrera's dismissal over Israel-Palestine comments

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Around 25 protesters gathered outside the 'Scream 7' premiere at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles, chanting slogans and calling for a boycott of the film. The protest stems from the firing of actress Melissa Barrera from the franchise after she made social media posts criticizing Israel's actions during the 2023 conflict with Hamas. The protesters expressed support for Palestine and opposition to Barrera's dismissal, which they see as a violation of free speech.

Why it matters

The protest highlights the ongoing tensions around the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and how it can spill over into the entertainment industry. It also raises questions about the limits of free speech and whether companies have the right to fire employees over their political views, even if those views are controversial.

The details

The protesters were seen carrying flags, drums, and bullhorns as they chanted phrases like 'Paramount, Paramount, what do you say?' and 'Palestine will live forever!' 'Scream 7' director Kevin Williamson expressed sympathy for the protesters, saying 'a lot of people want to be heard and they want to have their voice heard about the bad stuff that's happening.' However, he questioned whether boycotting Paramount+ was the right approach.

  • The protest took place on Wednesday night, February 26, 2026, outside the 'Scream 7' premiere.

The players

Kevin Williamson

The director of 'Scream 7' who expressed sympathy for the protesters but questioned the effectiveness of boycotting Paramount+.

Melissa Barrera

The former 'Scream' series star who was fired from the franchise after making social media posts criticizing Israel's actions during the 2023 conflict with Hamas.

Jenna Ortega

The 'Scream' co-star who exited the film shortly after Barrera's firing, citing scheduling conflicts.

Christopher Landon

The original 'Scream 7' director who left the project after receiving death threats over Barrera's firing.

Neve Campbell

The original 'Scream' heroine who was inserted as the lead in 'Scream 7' after the script had to be rewritten.

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What they’re saying

“We live in a world where a lot of bad things are happening out there, and I think a lot of people want to be heard and they want to have their voice heard about the bad stuff that's happening.”

— Kevin Williamson, Director, 'Scream 7' (Variety)

What’s next

The protesters have vowed to continue their campaign to boycott 'Scream 7' and Paramount+ until Melissa Barrera is reinstated to the franchise.

The takeaway

This protest highlights the ongoing tensions around the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the challenges companies face in navigating political and social issues, especially when it comes to the employment and artistic expression of their employees and talent.