Actor Matthew Lillard made a surprise appearance at Cinespia's Halloween screening of the 1996 horror film Scream, where he criticized Immigration and Customs Enforcement and urged voters to support Proposition 50. Speaking to fans at Hollywood Forever Cemetery, Lillard emphasized leading with love amid political tensions. The event highlighted his ongoing connection to the Scream franchise as he prepares to reprise his role in Scream 7.
Event Overview
On Friday night, October 31, 2025, Matthew Lillard surprised attendees at Cinespia's Halloween party screening of Wes Craven's 1996 slasher film Scream at Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles. Best known for portraying Stu Macher, one-half of the killer duo alongside Skeet Ulrich's Billy Loomis, Lillard used the platform to deliver a pointed political message.
Lillard's Remarks
Addressing the crowd, Lillard stated, “Fuck ICE,” receiving cheers from the audience. He elaborated, “In this time, in this city, we need to lead with love. Do not forget that shit in this moment—not to be political, but to be political as shit.” Lillard also advocated for Proposition 50, a California ballot measure aimed at redrawing congressional districts to counter gerrymandering effects from Texas that added five GOP seats. “Yes to 50. You have to vote. If you don’t vote, we are going down. So it’s on us. And if you don’t like that, I’m so not sorry,” he added.
Franchise Context
The original Scream starred Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox, David Arquette, and others, subverting horror tropes while launching a long-running series. Lillard is set to return as Stu Macher in Scream 7, directed by Spyglass and Paramount, alongside returning cast members including Campbell, Cox, and Arquette, as well as Scott Foley, Mason Gooding, and Jasmin Savoy Brown. Newcomers include Isabel May, Celeste O’Connor, Asa Germann, Mckenna Grace, Sam Rechner, Anna Camp, Joel McHale, and Mark Consuelos. The film is slated for release on February 27, though the exact year remains unconfirmed in reports. Note that original Scream stars Melissa Barrera and Jenna Ortega departed the project earlier due to creative and solidarity issues following Barrera's firing over social media comments.
Broader Implications
Lillard's comments come amid heightened scrutiny of ICE policies following Donald Trump's inauguration, echoing sentiments in Hollywood. Similar critiques have appeared in late-night shows like Saturday Night Live and Jimmy Kimmel Live, where figures like Jeff Bridges reprised roles to jab at the agency.