ALBAWABA - As one of the most anticipated horror movies of 2026 hits cinema screens, Scream 7 is facing boycott calls from pro-Palestine activists after Paramount Studios fired Melissa Barrera from the franchise, as her friend and fellow actress Jenna Ortega left in solidarity.
According to Hollywood Reporter's Borys Kit, around 30 pro-Palestine activists gathered outside Paramount Studios during the Scream 7 premiere in Los Angeles. The activists were captured waving Palestinian flags as they called for the movie's boycott.
Back in 2023, Barrera was fired from the popular franchise on accusations of "anti-Semitism" after she shared several posts on social media showing solidarity with Palestine. Paramount's actions were met with mass boycotts from human rights activists. Additionally, Wednesday actress Jenna Ortega also took to Barrera's defense and quit.
Why are horror fans boycotting Scream 7?
Social media reports claim that Barrera might have responded to the ongoing Scream 7 protests via Instagram stories by writing, "I see you."
Human rights organisations such as the BDS Movement, Code Pink, and Ireland-Palestine Solidarity Campaign also stepped in to support the boycott cause.
A social media account on X (formerly Twitter) called "BoycottScream7," recently wrote, "I really can’t wrap my mind around loving a character more than hating a genocide. The people who desperately want the movie to succeed are willing to fork more money over to an evil corporation than simply find other ways to enjoy their movie. Boycott Scream 7. Free Palestine."
Scream 7 is set to hit US cinema screens on February 27, 2026. However, the movie already received early screening reviews on platforms such as IMDB, where it currently sits on a 6.5/10 rating.
