In just one week, Kevin Williamson unveils his latest creation: The Following. This dark, twisted TV series, starring Kevin Bacon, James Purefoy, and Nico Tortorella (Scream 4), dives into the writer’s fascination with serial killers in pop culture—a theme Williamson first explored in Scream (1996).

Though The Following isn’t directly tied to the Scream franchise, fans can’t help but notice the connections. Many believe the show’s premise aligns with what Scream 5 might have been, had creative differences between Williamson and The Weinstein Company not derailed those plans. While we may never see Williamson’s vision for a fifth Scream film with the original cast and Wes Craven at the helm, The Following offers an enticing glimpse of his wicked storytelling on the small screen.

Scream References in The Following

Williamson’s signature self-referential style is unmistakable, and The Following carries echoes of the Scream saga alongside its major inspiration, The Silence of the Lambs (1991). Here are some key connections:

• Familiar Locations: One of The Following’s filming locations is Agnes Scott College, better known to fans as Scream 2’s Windsor College. Williamson even tweeted about this nostalgic scouting trip to Wes Craven.
• Character Names: Adam Canto’s character is named Billy, bringing to mind Scream’s infamous Billy Loomis.
• Masked Killers: Just like Ghostface, members of the cult in The Following will don masks, adding a chilling visual parallel.
• Serial Killer Alliances: The series’ plot centers on a cult of killers communicating and working together, reminiscent of Mrs. Loomis’ (Laurie Metcalf) vengeful partnerships in Scream 2.
• Sidney’s Shadow: Maggie Grace’s character, Sarah Fuller, is a famous survivor, mirroring the indomitable Sidney Prescott. Whether Sarah shares Sidney’s toughness remains to be seen.

A Must-Watch for Fans

Though The Following stands on its own, Williamson’s Scream DNA is deeply embedded in its storytelling. From its homage-filled references to its dark exploration of the killer-victim dynamic, the show is a compelling treat for Scream fans craving more of Williamson’s signature twists.

The Following premieres Monday, January 21, at 9/8c on Fox. Don’t miss the chance to see how Williamson’s latest creation connects to the slasher saga that started it all.