Matthew Lillard, best known for his role in the iconic slasher film “Scream”, recently took centre stage at New York Comic Con (NYCC) to commemorate the movie’s 30th anniversary. The actor, who was just 25 when the film debuted in 1996, reflected on his early career and the laughs he shares with audiences today when revisiting his performance.
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During a panel discussion on October 9, Lillard expressed a mix of nostalgia and amusement at his younger self’s approach to acting in the horror classic. “Watching myself in ‘Scream’ is hilarious,” said Lillard, who portrayed the memorable character Stu Macher. “I look back at whatever young Matthew Lillard was doing, and I can’t help but think, ‘Oh my God, that boy was chewing the scenery in every single scene.’ He was trying so hard to win an Academy Award.”
This self-reflection revealed Lillard’s journey of striving for recognition in Hollywood. “I was trying to prove that I belonged,” he continued, adding that it’s amusing now to see just how hard he was pushing for respect as an actor. “Everything had deep meaning and layers,” he said with a chuckle, indicating that his eagerness sometimes led to exaggerated performances.
When asked by the panel’s moderator if he now feels he belongs in the industry, the seasoned actor responded affirmatively. “Yes. I do. After nearly 40 years in this business, if they didn’t want me, they would have let me know,” he asserted. Despite facing hurdles throughout his career, Lillard feels a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm.
He attributed much of his recent resurgence in the entertainment industry to perseverance and positive interactions with fans. “The conventions we attend and the way we connect with audiences have had a significant impact on our lives,” he remarked, acknowledging the importance of fan engagement in shaping his trajectory.
In a prior conversation with PEOPLE, Lillard stated that “Scream” holds a special place in his heart, being his favourite horror film due to its transformative impact on his life. “I don’t think anyone involved in that first film thought we would still be celebrating ‘Scream’ 30 years later,” he reflected.
At the time of the film’s release, Lillard noted that director Wes Craven was coming off a rough patch, and the slasher genre seemed to be on its last legs. “Back then, it was a little horror movie and felt like a fun project,” he said, reminiscing about the initial outlook. “Little did I know how much it would change my life and bring us all back together three decades later.”
“Scream” featured a star-studded cast, including Drew Barrymore, Neve Campbell, and Courteney Cox, among others. Lillard recalled working beside these talented actors and the unexpected longevity of the franchise. Since its initial release, there have been six sequels, with the latest hitting cinemas earlier this year, continuing to captivate a new generation of horror fans.
Overall, Lillard’s reflections at NYCC signify a celebration of not just “Scream”, but the resilience inherent in his career. As he looks back on his journey, Lillard embodies the spirit of perseverance, both in his art and in connecting with audiences who have cherished the film for decades. For those who adore the “Scream” franchise, Lillard’s journey from a fledgling actor to a seasoned veteran is a testament to the enduring nature of cinematic legacy.