Anna Camp, a star of the newly released Scream 7, has publicly apologized for resharing a social media post that criticized fan-led boycotts of the film. The controversy stems from the firing of co-star Melissa Barrera last year over posts deemed antisemitic by the production company.
Instagram Story Sparks Backlash
On Sunday, Camp, 43, who joined the iconic slasher franchise in its latest installment, reposted content from a Scream fan account to her Instagram Story. The post declared, "The Boycott didn't work, the critics didn't work, the pathetic leaks didn't work. What worked was audiences coming out and making the film a success #Scream7." Camp accompanied the repost with Taylor Swift's song "Karma."
The message referenced the film's record-breaking box office debut, which occurred despite protests at its worldwide premiere in support of Barrera. Camp quickly deleted the Story and later issued a statement on X, formerly Twitter.
Camp's Apology and Clarification
"It has come to my attention that I reposted someone else's story that does not reflect my personal beliefs," the Pitch Perfect alum wrote. "I have since deleted the repost because I absolutely meant no harm. I'm sorry to anyone who was affected."
Premiere Protests and Director's Response
Last week, the film's premiere at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles was disrupted by activists marching and shouting pro-Palestine chants. Many held signs urging boycotts of Paramount+, which partnered with Spyglass Media Group on recent Scream films. Others voiced support for Barrera, who responded on Instagram with "I see you" and a red heart emoji.
When asked about the protests, director Kevin Williamson told The Hollywood Reporter: "I saw them and my heart just sort of stopped. Look, we live in America. Everyone has a right to protest and everyone should be heard. And if you have your truth and if you want to stand up and be heard, you protest. That is your right in this country, and I stand by it. I support that 100 percent."
Background on Barrera's Firing
Barrera, 35, previously starred as Samantha Carpenter in Scream (2022) and Scream VI. She was expected to reprise her role in Scream 7 but was dropped in 2023 due to Instagram posts about the Israel-Hamas war. A Spyglass spokesperson stated at the time: "Spyglass' stance is unequivocally clear: We have zero tolerance for antisemitism or the incitement of hate in any form, including false references to genocide, ethnic cleansing, Holocaust distortion or anything that flagrantly crosses the line into hate speech."
Production Turmoil and Cast Changes
Barrera's removal triggered significant upheaval for the film. Co-star Jenna Ortega soon exited her role as Tara Carpenter, with director Christopher Landon also departing. Williamson later stepped in to helm Scream 7, requiring a major script overhaul costing approximately $500,000.
The franchise's original star, Neve Campbell, returned alongside returning cast members Matthew Lillard, Courteney Cox, David Arquette, Jasmin Savoy Brown, and Mason Gooding. New additions include Camp, Mckenna Grace, and Isabel May.
Scream 7 Plot and Release
Scream 7, now in theaters, follows Sidney Prescott (Campbell) as her quiet new life is disrupted by a new Ghostface killer targeting her daughter. The film's release has been marked by both commercial success and ongoing controversy surrounding Barrera's dismissal and the subsequent fan reactions.
