Dozens of individuals supporting Palestine gathered outside the Los Angeles premiere of “Scream 7” on Wednesday night, transforming the red-carpet event into a politically charged moment related to the earlier dismissal of actor Melissa Barrera.
The demonstration took place at the Paramount Studios lot, where guests were arriving for the premiere. Protesters displayed Palestinian flags and held signs saying “Cancel Paramount+” and “Stand For Free Speech Boycott Scream 7,” while chanting “Boycott Scream 7” and “Free, free, free Palestine” accompanied by drums and brass instruments. Inside the venue, the noise from the protest reportedly faintly reached the red carpet as cast members posed for photos.
Celebrities like Neve Campbell and Courteney Cox were present at the premiere, adding to the buzz around the movie amid increased public attention.
Director Kevin Williamson, in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, acknowledged noticing the demonstrators during the event. He expressed his support for their right to protest and be heard, emphasizing the importance of free speech in the country.
The organizers stated that the protest aimed to shed light on what they perceived as the entertainment industry censoring pro-Palestinian viewpoints. Various activist groups, including Entertainment Labor for Palestine, CODEPINK LA, and Jewish Voice for Peace–Los Angeles, participated in the protest.
As per a statement from CODEPINK LA, the protest aimed to highlight the industry’s alleged suppression of pro-Palestinian voices and the portrayal of Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The controversy mainly stemmed from Barrera’s removal from the movie in November 2023 after expressing pro-Palestine views on social media following the conflict between Israel and Hamas in October 2023.
Spyglass Media Group, the production company, defended its decision, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy towards hate speech and antisemitism.
Supporters of the “Boycott Scream 7” movement encouraged the public to refrain from watching the film, scheduled for release on February 27. Organizer Nino Testa emphasized the community’s support for Barrera and rejection of censorship regarding advocating for a free Palestine.
The campaign’s message included a refusal to let the beloved franchise be used to promote agendas related to genocide and opposition to Hollywood’s alleged discriminatory practices against advocates for a free Palestine.
As of the time of writing, requests for comments from Paramount and Spyglass remained unanswered.
