The road to “Scream 7” hitting theaters this weekend hasn’t exactly been smooth. Behind-the-scenes shakeups — including the firing of Melissa Barrera and the exit of Jenna Ortega — led to a major creative pivot that reshaped the seventh installment.

Original Scream writer Kevin Williamson stepped into the director’s chair, while franchise icon Neve Campbell returned for a Sidney Prescott–focused chapter. Despite the turbulence, early box office tracking suggests the slasher sequel could slice up a huge debut.

How Much Is ‘Scream 7’ Tracking to Make?

Current projections have “Scream 7” opening in the $40–$50 million range domestically this weekend. If the film lands on the higher end, it could become the biggest opening in franchise history.

The record is currently held by “Scream VI,” which opened to $44.4 million in 2023 and ultimately grossed $166.5 million worldwide. One year earlier, “Scream” (2022) debuted with $30 million in the U.S., showing steady growth for the long-running slasher series.

At this point, the Scream franchise remains Wes Craven’s most durable horror legacy, with Ghostface continuing to attract new generations of fans while Freddy Krueger has largely remained dormant.

What’s the Budget for ‘Scream 7’?

Thanks in part to rewrites and rising production costs, “Scream 7” carries a reported $45 million budget. That’s a noticeable jump from Scream VI’s $35 million price tag.

Industry reports note that inflation — impacting everything from set construction to travel — contributed to the increased cost. Even so, if current projections hold, the film could recoup its production budget during opening weekend alone, putting it on a fast track to profitability.

What Are the Chances of ‘Scream 8’?

If Kevin Williamson’s return to Woodsboro delivers the expected box office punch, the future of the franchise looks extremely secure.

Industry insiders are already hinting that plans for “Scream 8” are quietly taking shape. Williamson himself recently suggested that strong audience turnout could pave the way for another multi-film arc.

“If people turn out for [Scream 7], we can talk about a trilogy,” Williamson teased.

In other words: if Ghostface slays at the box office this weekend, don’t expect the killer to stay dead for long.

“Scream 7” opens in theaters nationwide — including IMAX, Dolby Cinema, 4DX, and other premium large formats — on February 26, 2026.