Deleted ‘Scooby-Doo’ Scene Too Scary for Theaters, Left Test Audiences Shocked
When the live-action Scooby-Doo movie came out in 2002, it brought the classic cartoon characters into the real world with plenty of humor and spooky adventures.
The film, set at a horror-themed resort called Spooky Island, followed Scooby and the gang as they solved strange mysteries. While it wasn’t a critical hit, it performed well at the box office and has developed a loyal fanbase over the years.
What many fans may not know is that the original script included a scene that was considered too intense for children.
Written by James Gunn, who is now known for his bold and edgy storytelling, the scene took place in a locker room and was eventually cut from the theatrical release.
The scene featured Velma, played by Linda Cardellini, and Daphne, played by Sarah Michelle Gellar. In it, Daphne enters the locker room to find Velma acting strangely, apparently intoxicated and out of her element, dressed in a bikini.
It soon becomes clear that Velma is possessed. Velma begins cracking her neck and lets out a chilling scream as she starts chasing for Daphne’s soul.
This Scooby Doo scene was cut from the film because it was too scary.
— Emir Han (@RealEmirHan) November 4, 2025
When test audiences first watched it, they felt disturbed by the nature of this scene.
This scene depicted a possessed Velma chasing for Daphne's soul.
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It reflected James Gunn’s original vision for a more mature take on the series. Because of its intensity and adult tone, the studio decided it was not suitable for children, so it was removed before the film reached theaters.
Fans later got a chance to see the deleted scene when it was included in VHS and DVD releases. The clip has gained attention for its unusual and daring approach, showing a side of the movie that was darker and more irreverent than what audiences saw in theaters.
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