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Currently pursuing a film career with a passion for film journalism, storytelling of any kind has allowed me to let my imagination run wild in ways even I couldn’t predict. Expect me to write about film, TV, and the entertainment industry.
Spyglass Media Group addressed their decision to drop Melissa Barrera last night. They stated she had made antisemitic comments that included “false references to genocide.” The actress had only asked for the media to cover the Palestinian side of the current Israel-Hamas conflict. She also requested a ceasefire for the innocent people of Gaza, Palestine.
Tonight, Barrera released her official statement on the matter via her Instagram stories.
“First and foremost I condemn Anti-Semitism and Islamophobia. I condemn hate and prejudice of any kind against any group of people.
As a Latina, a proud Mexicana, I feel the responsibility of having a platform that allows me the privilege of being heard, and therefore I have tried to use it to raise awareness about issues I care about and to lend my voice to those in need.
Every person on this earth- regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation or socio-economic status- deserves equal human rights, dignity, and, of course, freedom.
I believe a group of people are NOT their leadership, and that no governing body should be above criticism.
I pray day and night for no more deaths, for no more violence, and for peaceful co-existence. I will continue to speak out for those that need it most and continue to advocate for peace and safety, for human rights and freedom.
Silence is not an option for me.”
Melissa Barrera on Instagram, Wednesday, November 22nd, 2023
The actress’s statement follows the news of not only her removal from Scream 7 but co-star Jenna Ortega exiting the project. Deadline broke that news earlier today, and now Variety reports that Spyglass is bringing Scream and Scream VI writers James Vanderbilt and Guy Busick in for a full creative reboot. Sources say Barrera was fired due to Ortega turning the film down, despite Spyglass announcing it was because of her comments. Both actresses had signed on for two movies – fulfilling their obligations with Scream and Scream VI – and would have needed new contracts. This contradicts a report by The Wrap last month in which it stated Ortega was committed to returning despite her busy schedule.
Plotlines and set pieces in previous drafts are expected to stay, though Scream 7 will now need new leads. Variety‘s sources also claim the studio will approach Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox, and Patrick Dempsey – series veterans – to return. Campbell coming back would be a surprise after being dropped from Scream VI for requesting a salary increase. Scream 7 was expected to hit theaters in 2025, but that release date is now unlikely.
Whether Scream 7 makes its 2025 release date or not, public outrage is in full effect. The actress has gained support across social media with the #JusticeForMelissaBarrera movement underway.
We’ll keep you updated as this story develops.
Currently pursuing a film career with a passion for film journalism, storytelling of any kind has allowed me to let my imagination run wild in ways even I couldn’t predict. Expect me to write about film, TV, and the entertainment industry.
This article was edited by John Tangalin.