Ryan Coogler Confirms ‘X-Files’ Reboot Is Next – Hints at Gillian Anderson’s Involvement

With Sinners making waves in cinemas, director Ryan Coogler has set his sights on his next big project; a reboot of The X-Files. After months of speculation, the filmmaker behind Black Panther and Creed confirmed on Last Podcast on the Left that the revival of the iconic sci-fi series is officially in the works and it’s up next on his to-do list.

Long-Expected ‘X-Files’ Reboot

“I’m working on X-Files. That’s what’s immediately next,” Coogler said during the podcast appearance. “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.”

The original X-Files, created by Chris Carter, ran for nine seasons from 1993 to 2002, earning cult status with its mix of paranormal cases and unforgettable characters in Fox Mulder and Dana Scully, played by David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson. Two revival seasons followed in 2016 and 2018, along with two feature films.

Coogler, who is developing the reboot through his overall deal with Walt Disney Television, has already proven he knows how to handle legacy properties. From reviving the Rocky universe with Creed to redefining the superhero genre with Black Panther, his track record speaks for itself. Sinners, his latest original project (a Southern gothic vampire thriller) is earning praise for its originality and tension, qualities that could translate well to an X-Files reboot.

Reports suggested that the reboot might veer away from Mulder and Scully, potentially exploring new characters and storylines within the same paranormal framework. But there’s now a hint that at least one original cast member may return.

Coogler confirmed that he has been in contact with Gillian Anderson, who portrayed Agent Scully in the original series. “She’s incredible and fingers crossed there,” he said, noting that Anderson was working on Tron: Ares when they last spoke. While there’s no official confirmation of her involvement, the door appears open.

“We’re going to try to make something really great, bro, and make something for the real X-Files fans and maybe find some new ones,” Coogler added.

The reboot has the backing of original creator Chris Carter, who revealed in a 2024 interview that he supports the new direction, even if he isn’t directly involved. “I’m looking forward to seeing what somebody else does with it,” he said.

Coogler’s involvement brings fresh energy to the project, along with a deep respect for genre and storytelling. Whether or not Duchovny or Anderson reprise their roles, fans can expect a modern take on The X-Files that stays true to its eerie roots while pushing the show into new territory.