Courteney Cox will return as Gale Weathers in new 'Scream' movie
In the world of slasher movies set in sleepy little towns (with no shortage of unsuspecting victims), Scream is the stuff of legends. Since the release of the first film in 1996, Wes Craven's wildly popular franchise has grown to include four films, a TV series, merchandise and even a video game. And now, it’s making a comeback — one that includes Courteney Cox.
First reported by Deadline on July 31, Courteney took to Instagram on Friday to confirm the news that she'll reprise her role as reporter Gale Weathers in the latest instalment of the Scream franchise.The post, a video of the iconic Ghostface mask with ominous music playing in the background, doesn't give much away, but also speaks volumes. After a few seconds, a message in red lettering appears: "I can’t wait to see this face again."
Honestly, neither can we. And it seems fans of the franchise agree.????? https://t.co/QH7CSI5oOl
— Danny Pellegrino (@DannyPellegrino) July 31, 2020
COURTENEY JUST CONFIRMED GALE WEATHERS IS COMING BACK TO US FOR SCREAM 5! I REPEAT GALE WEATHERS IS COMING BACK TO US FOR SCREAM 5! pic.twitter.com/F1H3UkYc4M
— sara (@alwayscourteney) July 31, 2020
The new Scream film will be directed by Ready or Not's Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, and will also mark the return of Cox’s ex-husband, David Arquette, to the franchise as Dewey Riley. Production of the film is set to begin later this year in Wilmington, North Carolina.
[video_embed id='-1']RELATED: Jen Aniston, Lisa Kudrow and Courteney Cox had a ‘Friends’ reunion encouraging fans to vote[/video_embed]Speaking enthusiastically to the The Hollywood Reporter back in May about his return, Arquette said, "I am thrilled to be playing Dewey again and to reunite with my Scream family, old and new. Scream has been such a big part of my life, and for both the fans and myself, I look forward to honouring Wes Craven’s legacy.” Craven, the franchise's creator and director of the first four films, passed away in 2015 at the age of 76.
For those who need a refresher, Scream follows protagonist Sidney Prescott (played by Neve Campbell), who becomes the target of a masked killer (or, more often than not, killers), later revealed as ‘Ghostface.' Donning a mask inspired by the Edvard Munch painting "The Scream,” Ghostface stalks and torments his or her victims, often exhibiting almost super-human strength and the ability to jump back to life when the victims least expect it. Prescott is joined by the town sheriff, Dewey Riley, tabloid reporter turned bestselling author Gale Weathers, and a variety of friends and acquaintances who, unfortunately, are pulled into the mix in each film.
With plenty of scares, unexpected laughs, iconic moments (and haircuts), and famous faces across all four films, fans are likely wondering — what is in store for the fifth instalment? Until then... what's your favourite scary movie?
[video_embed id='-1']BEFORE YOU GO: Paranormal activity: Is there something living in this person's attic[/video_embed]
