Mason Gooding on Sidestepping the "Scream King" Label and Co-Starring in James Van Der Beek's Emotional Farewell Film, "King James"

You know, in Hollywood, sometimes a label just sticks, whether you like it or not. For Mason Gooding, fresh off his standout roles in the recent "Scream" installments, that label has become "Scream King." It’s a flattering title, sure, but one he’s playfully — and quite thoughtfully — pushing back against. He’s grateful for the opportunities the horror franchise has given him, absolutely, but he's also acutely aware of the perils of typecasting. "I love the movies, I love the genre, I love the fans," he explained recently. "But I think I'm more of a 'supporting Scream dude' than a 'Scream King.' It feels... more accurate, somehow."

There's a genuine humility there, a desire to be seen for a broader range of talent than just his ability to flee masked killers. Gooding is, after all, an actor with depth and versatility, eager to explore different narratives and characters. And it's precisely this ambition that led him to his latest project, a film titled "King James." This isn't just any role; it's a unique buddy comedy/thriller that sees him sharing the screen with none other than James Van Der Beek – in what is poised to be Van Der Beek's final acting performance.

The premise of "King James" sounds utterly fascinating. Gooding and Van Der Beek essentially play exaggerated versions of themselves. Picture this: Gooding as a burgeoning actor on the cusp of his big break, full of youthful ambition, and Van Der Beek as a seasoned, perhaps slightly jaded, former teen idol. Their paths cross in a truly unexpected way, sparking a story that delves into the often-brutal realities of fame, the relentless grind of Hollywood, and the quiet indignity of ageism in an industry obsessed with the new. It's a film that, by all accounts, has a sharp wit and a surprising amount of heart.

What truly elevates "King James" beyond a mere industry satire, however, is the profound personal significance for its co-star. James Van Der Beek, known globally for iconic roles like Dawson Leery and his memorable turn in "Varsity Blues," is making a deliberate exit from the acting world. After decades in front of the camera, he's choosing to pivot, to dedicate his time to his family, his writing, and even a life on the farm. It's a courageous decision, one that speaks volumes about re-evaluating priorities and finding fulfillment beyond the spotlight. And to mark such a pivotal life change with a film that so directly addresses his own journey? Well, that's just incredibly poignant.

Gooding himself admits that working with Van Der Beek was a "full-circle moment." Like so many of us, he grew up watching Van Der Beek's performances, witnessing the highs and lows of a career lived very publicly. To now collaborate with him on a project that essentially closes that chapter for Van Der Beek, and opens a new one for Gooding, feels particularly special. It's almost a passing of the torch, if you will, but with a deeply respectful and personal touch.

For Gooding, this collaboration underlines his own measured approach to his career. He's not chasing every shiny role; instead, he's looking for scripts that resonate, projects that challenge him, and stories that have something meaningful to say. "King James" clearly fits that bill. It’s a testament to the power of a strong script, and a compelling concept, that it could draw both a rising star like Gooding and a veteran like Van Der Beek, convincing the latter to give one final, memorable performance before gracefully bowing out. It seems some stories are just too good to pass up, even when you're ready to start a whole new act.