Matthew Lillard Opens Up About How It Feels to Return For 'SCREAM 7': "I’ve been waiting for this call for like 20 years.”

By Klep Napier | WeAreCritiX.com

At this year’s Silver Scream Con, horror fans saw a different side of Matthew Lillard not the wild-eyed chaos of Stu Macher, but a man deeply moved to be stepping back into the world that launched his career nearly three decades ago. While the news of his return to the Scream franchise has been public since it was first teased back in January, hearing Lillard reflect on how it felt made it hit differently: this comeback is personal.

“I got a call from Kevin Williamson in the middle of the day,” Lillard shared, smiling as he recalled the exact moment. “We kind of small talked and he’s like, ‘Are you interested in coming back?’ And I literally thought to myself, I’ve been waiting for this call for like 20 years.” He remembered everything where he was, what he was wearing, the time of day. “I was on a walk… and I was like, oh my God.” That detail, etched in his memory, spoke louder than any headline ever could. This wasn’t just another role it was like coming home.

You can watch Matt Lillard in all his emotions in the video below:

His enthusiasm didn’t just light up the panel; it rippled through the Scream fanbase. Lillard has always been one of the franchise’s most beloved figures, and hearing him talk about his return with such joy feels like a healing moment for long-time fans. For a series built on loss, fear, and survival, seeing a fan-favorite embrace the franchise with gratitude reminds audiences why they’ve stuck around for nearly 30 years — it’s not just about the kills, it’s about the characters.

Lillard was quick to reassure everyone that this new chapter won’t tarnish the legacy they love. “The movie’s fantastic, and I’m really excited for people to see it,” he said, grinning. “It’s not gonna ruin the franchise. That’s the good news.” That lighthearted confidence sparked cheers from the crowd, who know his return could re-energize the saga and inspire a whole new wave of Scream obsession.

Fans can see Lillard’s long-awaited return when the newest installment of the Scream franchise slices into theaters on February 27, 2026 and judging by his excitement, this might be the most heartfelt homecoming the series has ever seen.