Pro-Palestine Protesters Disrupt 'Scream 7' Premiere, Director Responds

Activists call for boycott over firing of actress who supported Palestine

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:55am

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An abstract, minimalist illustration featuring bold, jagged shapes in red, white, and black, conveying the energy and tension of the pro-Palestine protest outside the 'Scream 7' premiere.Protesters raise their voices against the entertainment industry's perceived silencing of pro-Palestinian perspectives.Los Angeles Today

A group of pro-Palestine protesters gathered outside the Los Angeles premiere of the new 'Scream' movie on Wednesday, waving flags and chanting slogans demanding a boycott of the film. The protest was organized by several activist groups to shed light on the entertainment industry's alleged silencing of pro-Palestinian voices and the recent firing of actress Melissa Barrera from 'Scream 7' after she expressed support for Palestine on social media.

Why it matters

The protest highlights the ongoing tensions between the entertainment industry and the Palestinian rights movement, as well as the challenges artists face in balancing their personal political views with their professional obligations. It also raises questions about the industry's role in shaping public discourse and the extent to which artists should be held accountable for their beliefs.

The details

The protesters, organized by groups like Entertainment Labor for Palestine, CODEPINK LA, and Jewish Voice for Peace-Los Angeles, chanted 'Free, free, Palestine' and 'Boycott Scream 7' outside the premiere. Director Kevin Williamson expressed support for the protesters' right to demonstrate, stating 'I stand by the right to protest and be heard. It's a fundamental freedom in this country, and I support it wholeheartedly.' The protest was also a response to the firing of actress Melissa Barrera from 'Scream 7' in November 2023 after she expressed support for Palestine on social media. The activists claim the industry is 'silencing' pro-Palestinian voices and 'whitewashing the ongoing genocide in Gaza'.

  • The protest took place at the Los Angeles premiere of 'Scream 7' on Wednesday, April 10, 2026.
  • Melissa Barrera was fired from 'Scream 7' in November 2023 after expressing support for Palestine on social media.

The players

Kevin Williamson

The director of 'Scream 7' who expressed support for the protesters' right to demonstrate.

Melissa Barrera

The actress who was fired from 'Scream 7' in November 2023 after expressing support for Palestine on social media.

Entertainment Labor for Palestine

One of the activist groups that organized the protest outside the 'Scream 7' premiere.

CODEPINK LA

One of the activist groups that organized the protest outside the 'Scream 7' premiere.

Jewish Voice for Peace-Los Angeles

One of the activist groups that organized the protest outside the 'Scream 7' premiere.

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What they’re saying

“I stand by the right to protest and be heard. It's a fundamental freedom in this country, and I support it wholeheartedly.”

— Kevin Williamson, Director of 'Scream 7'

“We believe it's our duty to speak up when a member of our community is harmed. We won't allow our beloved franchise to be used as propaganda for genocide. We stand against Hollywood's racist blacklisting and censorship of those advocating for a free Palestine.”

— Nino Testa, Longtime 'Scream' fan and organizer of the boycott

What’s next

The 'Boycott Scream 7' campaign is expected to continue, with activists urging fans to refrain from watching or supporting the film. The industry's response to the protest and the ongoing debate over the balance between artistic expression and political activism will likely be closely watched.

The takeaway

This protest highlights the complex and often contentious relationship between the entertainment industry and social/political movements. It raises questions about the extent to which artists should be held accountable for their personal beliefs and the industry's role in shaping public discourse on sensitive issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.