Jenna Ortega has opened up about her decision to leave the ‘Scream’ franchise, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding her departure. In a recent cover story for The Cut, Ortega discussed her exit from the rebooted series, which also stars Melissa Barrera as part of the Carpenter Sisters duo. Her remarks come in the wake of Barrera’s firing from the upcoming seventh installment, a decision linked to comments she made regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict on social media.
The announcement of Barrera’s dismissal by Spyglass Media Group in November 2023 was swiftly followed by Ortega’s decision to step away from the project. Speculation arose that her departure was tied to either Barrera’s firing or potential pay disputes. However, Ortega clarified that her choice was not influenced by financial considerations or scheduling conflicts.
Instead, Ortega pointed to broader changes within the franchise as a significant factor in her decision. She noted that the directors of ‘Scream 6’ had also exited the project, which played a pivotal role in her choice. “If Scream 7 wasn’t going to be with that team of directors and those people I fell in love with, then it didn’t seem like the right move for me in my career at the time,” she explained.
Ortega’s exit highlights the complexities within the film industry, particularly amid shifting dynamics and creative team changes. Reflecting on her bond with Barrera, Ortega expressed her unwavering support for her co-star, stating, “She’s been very supportive of me, and we’re sisters for life.”
As fans process this unexpected turn of events, Ortega’s insights provide a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by actors navigating franchise commitments. For more on this story and the latest updates in the entertainment world, visit thr.com.