While the new Hulu project introduces a fresh cast of FBI investigators, Anderson believes it still captures the spirit that made the original a television phenomenon.
Gillian Anderson Gives Ryan Coogler’s ‘X-Files’ Reboot a Major Endorsement
Years after wrapping her run as Dana Scully, Anderson has offered one of the clearest signs yet that Coogler’s vision respects the legacy of “The X-Files” while charting a new course. Speaking with Entertainment Tonight, the Emmy-winning actress described the pilot script as “brilliant” and praised the filmmaker leading the revival.
“I cannot think of a better person to take the helm,” Anderson said, before adding that she was “impressed by how different and yet how quintessentially like an X-File it was.” The comments arrive as anticipation continues to build around the reboot, which has already completed production on its pilot.
Rather than bringing back Mulder and Scully as the central investigators, the new series follows two accomplished FBI agents assigned to a reopened division dedicated to unexplained cases. Danielle Deadwyler and Himesh Patel headline the project, while original show creator Chris Carter serves as an executive producer.
Coogler already has plenty of goodwill behind him, having demonstrated his range with pictures such as “Fruitvale Station,” “Creed,” “Black Panther,” “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” and the Oscar-winning “Sinners.” The production also stands out for being filmed on large-format 65mm, an unusual choice for a television title.
For Hulu, the reboot represents a fresh chapter for one of television’s defining sci-fi franchises. Premiering in 1993, “The X-Files” followed FBI agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully as they investigated paranormal cases that blended conspiracy, horror, and science fiction. Over 11 seasons, two feature movies, and multiple revivals, the show became a pop culture landmark, making Anderson’s enthusiastic reaction to the new pilot especially significant.