Danielle Deadwyler has been announced as the new Scully in the upcoming New Gillian Anderson Reboot of the X-Files series. The reboot, directed by Ryan Coogler, will introduce a fresh take on the iconic FBI duo, with Deadwyler stepping into the role alongside a still-undisclosed actor cast as Fox Mulder. The new project will stream on Hulu and promises to revisit the unexplained phenomena investigated by the agents.
Ryan Coogler’s Creative Role and Vision for the Series
Renowned director Ryan Coogler, known for his film Sinners, will write and direct the pilot of this diverse iteration of the series. Coogler expressed his excitement about the project, emphasizing the intent to create episodes that will be genuinely chilling and appealing both to longstanding fans and new viewers. He shared in an interview,
“I’ve been excited about that for a long time, and I’m fired up to get back to it. Some of those episodes, if we do our jobs right, will be really f—ing scary. We’re gonna try to make something really great, bro, and really be something for the real X-Files fans, and maybe find some new ones,”
he said.
Danielle Deadwyler’s Previous Work and Acting Credentials
Deadwyler’s casting adds to her impressive body of work, which includes her acclaimed portrayal as the mother of Emmett Till in the 2022 film Till, as well as notable roles in Netflix’s The Harder They Fall and its adaptation of The Piano Lesson. Her involvement brings a fresh perspective to the determined and intelligent Scully character.
Connection and Support from Original Star Gillian Anderson
Coogler has already engaged with Gillian Anderson, the original Scully, about the reboot. He praised her, calling her “incredible,” and expressed hope she might participate in some capacity. Anderson confirmed her endorsement of Coogler to ITV’s This Morning, stating,
“I spoke to him, and what I said was, ‘If anyone were to do it, I think you are the perfect person, and best of luck.’”
She also hinted at the possibility of returning if the circumstances feel right, adding,
“At some point, if the phone rings and it’s good and it feels like the right time, then perhaps”
I could make an appearance.
Background on the X-Files and Anticipation for the Reboot
The original X-Files series, starring Anderson and David Duchovny, ran for nine seasons starting in 1993, with a brief revival in 2016 where both reprised their roles. The new series renews interest at a time when Coogler’s Sinners is gaining historic acclaim, dominating the 2026 awards season with record Oscar nominations. Recently, Coogler made history as the first Black winner of the Best Screenplay award at the BAFTAs, where Sinners also won accolades for Best Supporting Actress and Best Original Score.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the X-Files on Hulu
This reboot marks a significant moment for the franchise, bridging its legacy with a modern, inclusive approach under Coogler’s direction. Casting Danielle Deadwyler as Scully hints at a commitment to reimagining classic characters with fresh energy and depth. As production progresses, fans can anticipate a compelling blend of suspense, horror, and mystery rooted in the original’s spirit but shaped by contemporary storytelling.
