Filmmaker Ryan Coogler’s upcoming reboot of The X-Files, recently ordered for a pilot by Hulu, has rekindled enthusiasm for the legendary sci-fi series. Announced last month, the project features Danielle Deadwyler in a leading role, with Jennifer Yale serving as showrunner. This Ryan Coogler X-Files reboot has prompted prominent figures like video game designer Hideo Kojima to revisit key episodes from the original show, sparking fresh conversations about its legacy.
Hideo Kojima Reflects on The X-Files and Highlights Vince Gilligan’s Work
Kojima, known for his influential video games such as Metal Gear and Death Stranding, took to social media to share his deep connection to The X-Files and how Coogler’s new project inspired him to rewatch pivotal episodes. He reminisced about discovering the series during its early days through VHS rentals, recalling the excitement of following U.S. websites to stay updated when the internet was still in its infancy.
I saw the news that ‘The X-Files’ is being rebooted by Ryan Coogler. It was a show I absolutely loved back then. At the time, there were no DVDs yet, so I watched it through VHS rentals. The internet was just starting to spread in those days, and I would check U.S. websites for the latest information, which also helped me learn how to use the internet. I even bought the soundtrack and trading cards. Still, I had only watched up to around Season 2,
Kojima shared in a weekend post.
With the series now accessible on streaming platforms, Kojima revisited classic episodes, reigniting his appreciation for the show’s storytelling. He specifically praised two episodes penned by Vince Gilligan, a writer who has since become renowned for his work on Breaking Bad, for their innovative narrative style and memorable characters.
Tonight I first watched ‘Bad Blood,’ Season 5, Episode 12 of ‘The X-Files,’ written by none other than Vince Gilligan. The case is revisited from Mulder and Scully’s differing perspectives in a ‘Rashomon’-style structure. It even offers a fresh take on vampires. Gilligan’s signature comedic humor is on full display as well. A masterpiece! 🦇,
Kojima wrote.
Then I followed it with ‘Drive,’ Season 6, Episode 2, also written by Vince Gilligan and featuring a guest appearance by Bryan Cranston. Mulder goes on the run with a man who claims that ‘if he slows down, his head will explode,’ in a chase that brings to mind ‘The Bullet Train’ and ‘Speed.’ Meanwhile, Scully investigates the truth on the ground. You can already see that Gilligan was a genius even back then. No one else could come up with a plot like this. Incredible. 🚗
The Evolution of the X-Files Reboot: Insights from Chris Carter and Ryan Coogler
Discussions about a new The X-Files series under Ryan Coogler’s creative direction date back to March 2023, when series creator Chris Carter revealed that Coogler intended to revisit the franchise with a diverse cast. Carter acknowledged the challenges ahead, given the show’s rich history, but expressed respect for Coogler’s vision.
I just spoke to a young man… Ryan Coogler… who is going to remount ‘The X-Files’ with a diverse cast. So he’s got his work cut out for him because we covered so much territory.
By February 2024, Carter clarified that he would not take an active role in the reboot but continued to offer his blessing to the team managing the series.
Only as a cheerleader. They don’t need my blessing. 20th Century Fox and Disney own the show. They are free to do with it what they believe. I’m honored that they came to me and asked me not for my permission but my blessing.
While confidentiality agreements kept specific details under wraps, Carter confirmed conversations with Coogler about the series’ direction, noting Coogler’s intent to balance respect for the original while incorporating fresh ideas.
I’m not supposed to be talking about it, according to Disney. But I’ll tell you, yes. I’ve had a conversation with him. Yes, he likes to go with a diverse cast. And he’s got some good ideas.
In April 2024, Gillian Anderson, who famously portrayed Dana Scully, spoke on NBC’s TODAY about Coogler’s involvement, calling it an intriguing approach to the franchise’s revival. Anderson expressed tentative interest in potentially returning to the series, remarking,
Maybe I’ll pop in for a little somethin’-somethin’.
Ryan Coogler’s Personal Connection and Creative Ambitions for the Reboot
Coogler has described this reboot as a deeply personal project, sharing that his late mother Joselyn holds a special place in his motivation for the show. The series was part of their shared viewing experience, and Coogler aims to honor that bond by delivering a faithful yet invigorated take on the franchise.
Like my relationship with ‘Rocky’ with my dad, ‘The X-Files’ is one of those things with my mom,
Coogler explained during an October 2025 screening of his film Sinners. He emphasized,
My mom means the world to me — she’s actually here tonight — so this is a big one for me. I want to do right by her and the fans. My mom has read some of the stuff I wrote for it. She’s fired up.
Regarding casting rumors, including the involvement of Danielle Deadwyler and possible returns by Gillian Anderson or David Duchovny, Coogler maintained a cautious tone, commenting,
I can neither confirm nor deny.
Coogler has also shared on various podcast appearances how the reboot will respect the original’s format by blending standalone “monster of the week” episodes with the larger conspiracy narrative that fans cherish.
That show is what I used to watch with my mom, bro. It’s one of the most beautiful American television shows ever made, I think. It’s the story, because, you know, Chris Carter tells you he was trying to make ‘Kolchak the Night Stalker,’ you know what I’m saying? And for me, that’s what it’s all about. It’s like when you, as an artist, when you [try to] capture something that you were influenced by and you make something totally new. Anytime you watch a TV show or movie where there’s a skeptic paired with a believer and they’re trying to solve a case, like, you know, ‘True Detective’ season one, for instance,
Coogler remarked.
That’s the show that gave us Vince Gilligan, bro, you know what I’m saying? I got a chance to talk to Vince Gilligan, and get advice on how to make television, you know what I mean? I’m hyped, bro.
He added about the structure of the reboot,
“I mean, it wouldn’t be X-Files if we didn’t do both, you know? We intend on having both ‘monsters of the week’ and the overarching conspiracy.”
Creative Collaborations and Behind-the-Scenes Development Progress
Coogler has reunited with cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw, acclaimed for her work on his previous film Sinners. Arkapaw has expressed excitement about contributing to the reboot and revisiting The X-Files to capture its essence for both loyal fans and new audiences.
Speaking about her renewed engagement with the series, Arkapaw noted she was not a “super fan” but wanted to ensure the show honored its origins while embracing modern storytelling techniques.
In a February 2026 profile interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Coogler shared insights into his writing process, revealing his emotional investment and the challenges he faces as he pushes forward to meet deadlines.
I’m in deep now. Today’s a good day. Been a lot of days that weren’t so good.
He also revealed the value of advice received from Vince Gilligan, who offered guidance on transitioning to television writing during a Zoom meeting they had first arranged in 2013.
Vince gave me a couple hours of advice over Zoom and answered all the questions I had – I’ve got them all in my notebook, and I go back to it often.
This interaction underlines the connection between the new series and the franchise’s strong creative roots, where beloved writers and visionary talents continue to shape the narrative.
Looking Ahead: What the Reboot Means for The X-Files Legacy
With the upcoming Ryan Coogler X-Files reboot, the series is poised to attract both longtime fans and a new generation of viewers. Coogler’s intention to honor the original’s tone while introducing fresh stories aims to strike a delicate balance, preserving the franchise’s iconic elements alongside inclusive casting and modern sensibilities.
The involvement of key creative figures, including Deadwyler, Yale, and returning collaborators like Gilligan behind the scenes, signals a committed effort to respect the series’ heritage while innovating where possible. Meanwhile, ongoing talks with original cast members like Gillian Anderson suggest the potential for nostalgic moments that resonate with fans.
As Hulu prepares to showcase the pilot and advance the series, viewers can anticipate a blend of eerie mysteries and conspiracy-laden episodes true to the show’s DNA. This reboot represents a hopeful revival of a cultural cornerstone of science fiction television, reaffirming The X-Files’ enduring place in pop culture history under Coogler’s determined and passionate stewardship.
I Saw the news that “The X-Files” is being rebooted by Ryan Coogler. It was a show I absolutely loved back then. At the time there were no DVDs yet, so I watched it through VHS rentals. The internet was just starting to spread in those days, and I would check U.S. websites for… pic.twitter.com/8CB8EyfxaV
— HIDEO_KOJIMA (@HIDEO_KOJIMA_EN) March 8, 2026
Tonight I first watched “Bad Blood,” Season 5, Episode 12 of “The X-Files,” written by none other than Vince Gilligan. The case is revisited from Mulder and Scully’s differing perspectives in a “Rashomon”-style structure. It even offers a fresh take on vampires. Gilligan’s… pic.twitter.com/d6hkGLrofm
— HIDEO_KOJIMA (@HIDEO_KOJIMA_EN) March 9, 2026
