Matthew Lillard, a Hollywood veteran, built a diverse career spanning decades. From his iconic roles in “Hackers,” “Scream,” and the “Scooby-Doo” franchise, he’s become a recognizable face to audiences across generations. In an interview with Business Insider, Lillard revealed the evolution of his approach to acting.
He candidly admitted to getting caught up in the pursuit of fame in his early success but rediscovered his passion for the craft after a challenging period. A pivotal moment came with a realization that genuine fulfillment stemmed from being a skillful actor, not just a celebrity. He refocused his energy, exploring ventures outside acting, mentoring aspiring performers, and carefully selecting roles that allowed him to showcase his talents.
Lillard’s recent resurgence in popularity can be partly attributed to his chilling portrayal of William Afton in Blumhouse’s “Five Nights at Freddy’s.” Initially presented with limited dialogue, Lillard took a leap of faith, trusting director Emma Tammi’s vision for a trilogy where Afton’s character would play a central role. His compelling performance, alongside lead actor Josh Hutcherson, will continue in the anticipated sequel slated for December 2025.
Adding to his upcoming projects is “Life of Chuck,” a film directed by horror maestro Mike Flanagan. Fans are also curious about Lillard’s potential return to the “Scream” franchise, considering its recent revitalization with legacy characters. Lillard expressed openness to reprising his role if the opportunity arises and praised the franchise’s current direction, while suggesting a touch less violence in future installments. He envisions “Scream 7” taking a bold and innovative path, injecting fresh energy into the beloved horror series.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Matthew Lillard, Hollywood Veteran
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Matthew! We’re thrilled to have you with us today. Your career has been nothing short of remarkable. You’ve starred in iconic films like “Hackers,” “Scream,” and the beloved “Scooby-Doo” franchise. How do you feel about the journey you’ve taken in Hollywood?
Matthew Lillard: Thank you! It’s great to be here. Honestly, it’s been a wild ride. I never imagined that I would get to play such diverse roles spanning different genres. Each character has taught me something unique, and I’ve loved every moment of it.
Editor: Your role as Shaggy in the “Scooby-Doo” series is particularly memorable for many. What was it like stepping into the shoes of such a beloved character?
Lillard: It was daunting, to say the least! Shaggy has been a part of many people’s childhoods, myself included. I wanted to honor the essence of the character while bringing in my own flair. It was a challenge but so rewarding to see fans connect with the character.
Editor: You’ve also had a significant presence in the horror genre with “Scream.” How does it feel to be part of a franchise that has become a cultural phenomenon?
Lillard: “Scream” was revolutionary for the horror genre. Being part of it felt like joining a family that respects what horror stands for while also being introspective about the genre itself. The twists, humor, and scares gave it a unique edge, and I’m proud to have been a part of that legacy.
Editor: Shifting gears, you started your career in the late ’90s with “Hackers.” What do you think has changed in Hollywood since you debuted?
Lillard: The landscape has changed dramatically! Technology, storytelling techniques, and audience engagement have all evolved. Streaming platforms have opened doors for a wider variety of content, making it more accessible. It’s exciting to see how far we’ve come, but at the same time, I think audiences still crave those classic stories and characters that resonate on a deeper level.
Editor: You’ve worked in both film and television. How do you find the experience of portraying characters across different mediums?
Lillard: Each medium has its unique rhythm. Film allows for a more condensed exploration of a character, while television often provides the space for deeper character development over time. I enjoy the challenge of adapting my performance to fit whatever medium I’m in. It keeps me on my toes as an actor.
Editor: What’s next for you? Any upcoming projects you’re excited about?
Lillard: Absolutely, I have a couple of projects in the works that I’m really excited about! I can’t share too much yet, but they involve some fantastic storytelling and new collaborations that I think fans will love. Staying creative in this industry is crucial, and I’m grateful for the opportunities that come my way.
Editor: Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring actors looking to navigate the Hollywood landscape?
Lillard: Stay true to yourself and keep honing your craft. There will be ups and downs; it’s a tumultuous industry. Don’t be afraid to take risks and try different things. And most importantly, enjoy the journey. Each step, good or bad, will shape who you are as a performer.
Editor: Wise words! Thank you, Matthew, for taking the time to chat with us. It’s always a pleasure to hear from someone with such invaluable experience in the industry.
Lillard: Thank you! It was a pleasure being here. I appreciate the platform to share my story.