5 Theories Regarding Matthew Lillard’s Return as Stu in Scream 7

Matthew Lillard is set to reprise his iconic role as Stu Macher in the upcoming Scream 7. This development has sparked numerous theories regarding the character’s return. For years, fans speculated about Lillard’s potential reappearance in the franchise, and their hopes are finally being realized with this new installment, helmed by the original Scream creator and writer, Kevin Williamson. Alongside Lillard, fellow original cast members Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox, and the voice of Ghostface, Roger L. Jackson, will also join the cast, promising to deliver an engaging dose of nostalgia.

The narrative trajectory of Scream 7 appears to be evolving. The film not only welcomes back Lillard but also Scott Foley reprising his role as Roman Bridger from Scream 3. Notably, the sequel will lack the presence of Melissa Barrera and Jenna Ortega, though fans can expect the return of Mason Gooding and Jasmin Savoy-Brown as Chad and Mindy Meeks-Martin, respectively. While details about how Stu and the other characters will fit into the plot remain under wraps, fans have devised several intriguing theories about Stu’s role.

5 A Flashback Set Around The Original Scream

Scream 7 Could Use De-Aging

In Scream 3, the narrative took a turn by revealing that Roman Bridger was the mastermind behind the tragic events that unfolded, specifically the death of Maureen Prescott. This act set off the chain reaction leading to the Ghostface killings. While it’s unclear whether Roman had direct interactions with Stu Macher, a flashback could illuminate Stu’s recruitment into the Ghostface saga. Despite the absence of Skeet Ulrich’s Billy, the inclusion of a significant flashback with Lillard could resonate well with audiences.

Considering that nearly 30 years have passed since the original horror classic, Scream 7 might employ de-aging technology to credibly portray past events. With Roman’s return as well, the possibility of a flashback becomes even more plausible, creating connections between these two characters.

4 Hallucinations Like Billy’s Return In Previous Scream Sequels

Visions in Previous Scream Films

While flashbacks utilizing de-aging technology could be a compelling route, the easiest approach to reintroducing Stu might echo methods seen in recent films within the franchise. For instance, Sam’s hallucinations allowed Billy’s character to reappear without a traditional resurrection. Many fans anticipated that Lillard would make an appearance in Sam’s visions following Billy’s return in Scream 5 and Scream 6.

Considering the return of several former actors—especially those who once menaced Sidney Prescott—there’s potential for her to experience hallucinations featuring past Ghostface killers. It could be particularly interesting if Sidney were to visualize an alternate scenario where Stu survived the climax of the original film.

3 Shocking Survival After Scream

Scream 7 Can Undermine Stu’s Death

A compelling theory that circulates among enthusiasts suggests that Stu Macher may have survived his dramatic demise. Lillard’s resurgence has been a topic of discussion since Scream 4 and has only intensified with each subsequent film announcement. In the original movie, despite sustaining severe injuries, Stu faced his end dramatically when a television was dropped on his head just after an intense confrontation with Sidney.

If the narrative chooses to explore the idea that Stu survived, it would raise several questions regarding his motivations for reappearing after all these years. Various speculations by fans further cement the theory that he might have lived, particularly given Mindy’s references to his death in Scream 6.

2 A Callback To The Original Scream 3 Mastermind Plan

Scream 3 Almost Featured Matthew Lillard’s Comeback

Stu’s possible survival also connects to another engaging theory that reflects on the storyline of Scream 3. Lillard was nearly brought back for the film, with plans to have him orchestrate events while imprisoned, manipulating young killers. However, real-world events significantly shifted the film’s direction. Now that Williamson is at the helm again, it’s conceivable that he may revisit these abandoned storylines for Scream 7.

Reintroducing Stu as a puppet master could effectively shift the narrative’s focus back to Sidney Prescott, rather than solely concentrating on the newer characters, making for a riveting whodunit.

1 Stu Returns With The Help Of AI

New Tech Trends in Scream

The Scream series is celebrated for its commentary on contemporary societal issues, often linking plot elements to the latest technological trends. For example, in Scream 4, the narrative delves into the concept of internet fame and its ramifications. As the franchise embraces modern concerns, Scream 7 might explore the implications of AI in horror narratives.

In this context, AI could serve as a means to create the illusion of Stu and Roman’s continued existence, perpetuated through disinformation. Some fan theories suggest that a virtual following could manipulate Sidney’s perceptions, posing a psychological threat that keeps the tension alive without rewriting the past events drastically.

Such an incorporation would unearth new layers of horror relevant to today’s audience, effectively blending the old with the new while maintaining the franchise’s innovative edge.

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