C.W. Morgan, Actor Who Played Hank Loomis in Scream, Dies at 74

Morgan’s character served as a pivotal link in the franchise’s origin, cast as the father of Billy Loomis. His performance in the police station scene underscored the family secrets that fueled the plot, specifically Hank’s extramarital affair with Maureen Prescott, which ultimately triggered the series of murders central to the film. Beyond his contribution to the Woodsboro saga, Morgan appeared in a flashback for Scream 3.

His career spanned diverse formats, including roles in Metro and Nash Bridges, as well as voice work for the animated series Æon Flux and the video game The Last Express. Following the news, his daughter shared a tribute reflecting on their personal traditions, such as trips to Starbucks and drives along Mulholland, noting that she inherited his penchant for poorly timed humor. The actor’s passing comes as the franchise continues to expand, with an eighth installment currently in development.