Mason Gooding Reflects on 'Scream King' Title and Working on James Van Der Beek's Final Film

The actor discusses his reluctance to embrace the 'Scream King' moniker and the lessons he learned from working with the late actor on 'The Gates'.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Mason Gooding, who is reprising his role as Chad Meeks-Martin in the latest 'Scream' installment, spoke to Deadline about his hesitation to be considered a 'Scream King' and the valuable experience of working with the late James Van Der Beek on his final film 'The Gates'. Gooding also discussed his recent performances in 'I Want Your Sex' and the upcoming comedy '72 Hours'.

Why it matters

Gooding's comments provide insight into the mindset of a rising young actor who is navigating the expectations that come with being part of a successful horror franchise, while also exploring other genres and challenging himself as an artist. His reflections on working with the seasoned Van Der Beek offer a poignant look at the mentorship and growth that can occur on a film set.

The details

Gooding explained that while he has a natural affinity for horror and genre storytelling, the 'Scream King' moniker 'stresses me out' as he feels there is so much more he wants to do. On the thriller 'The Gates', he worked with the late James Van Der Beek, who Gooding said led the production 'with grace' and helped incite growth in the young actor. Gooding also discussed his roles in the Sundance film 'I Want Your Sex' and the upcoming comedy '72 Hours', in which he stars opposite Kevin Hart.

  • Scream 7 premiered in theaters this weekend.
  • Gooding recently filmed 'The Gates' in Catoosa, Oklahoma.

The players

Mason Gooding

An actor known for his roles in the 'Scream' franchise and other horror/thriller projects, who is exploring a range of genres.

James Van Der Beek

The late actor who directed Gooding in his final film, 'The Gates', and was praised by Gooding for his leadership and mentorship on set.

Gregg Araki

The director of the Sundance film 'I Want Your Sex', in which Gooding had a starring role.

Kevin Hart

The comedian who Gooding co-stars with in the upcoming comedy '72 Hours'.

Olivia Wilde

The actress and director who Gooding previously worked with on 'Booksmart' and has now reunited with on another project.

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What they’re saying

“I grew up with a certain affinity for horror and genre storytelling, and I feel like my natural proclivity to love stories, the Trojan horse sentimentality and themes through bombast and spectacle, is kind of what compels me as an audience member.”

— Mason Gooding, Actor (Deadline)

“It was a lot of trying your best to remain present and having someone as seasoned and giving and considerate as James to kind of lead that way and incite a lot of growth, at least in me as an artist.”

— Mason Gooding, Actor (Deadline)

“Gregg predicates a lot of his aesthetic on the humanity and the humor and the awkwardness based around sexuality and what that might look like from a cerebral standpoint, and also how that might feel from a set design or character standpoint.”

— Mason Gooding, Actor (Deadline)

What’s next

The judge in the case involving the alleged Waymo vandal will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the suspect out on bail.

The takeaway

This interview with Mason Gooding provides a thoughtful and introspective look at the young actor's approach to his craft, his reluctance to be pigeonholed, and the valuable lessons he's learned from working with seasoned veterans like James Van Der Beek. Gooding's diverse array of upcoming projects showcases his versatility and ambition to explore a wide range of genres and characters.