The X-Files Reboot: Ryan Coogler Opens Up on His Mom’s Influence and Casting Rumors

When Ryan Coogler announced he was taking on “The X-Files,” our first thought was “please don’t screw this up.” But after diving deep into what the “Black Panther” director has been saying about his upcoming X-Files reboot, we’re cautiously optimistic. And truly? The fact that his mom is his biggest critic might be exactly what this franchise needs.

Why Ryan Coogler’s Personal Connection Matters for the X-Files Reboot

Here’s something that caught our attention: Coogler isn’t just making this X-Files reboot for the studios or the fans (don’t fret – he definitely cares about both). He’s making it for his mother, Joselyn. During a recent Cinespia screening, Coogler got real about his motivation. He stated to Variety:

Like my relationship with ‘Rocky’ with my dad, ‘The X-Files’ is one of those things with my mom… 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.

And get this – his mom has already read some of his material. Her verdict? “She’s fired up.” Woohoo! If that doesn’t give you confidence in this project, we don’t know what will. There’s something beautifully real about a director who’s actually worried about disappointing his mother. It suggests he’s approaching this with the kind of care and respect that reboots desperately need.

The Casting Mystery That Has Everyone Talking

Now, let’s address the UFO in the room – or should we say, the agents in the room? The casting rumors surrounding this X-Files reboot are driving fans absolutely wild, and Coogler is playing his cards frustratingly close to his vest.

When pressed about Danielle Deadwyler potentially joining the cast, Coogler just laughed and gave the most infuriating non-answer possible: “I can neither confirm or deny.” Seriously? We’re doing government conspiracy responses about casting? Yep. It’s thematically appropriate for “The X-Files,” but come on, throw us a bone.

The same cryptic response applies to the big question everyone’s asking: will stars David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson return? Coogler’s keeping that information locked down tighter than Area 51.

What Gillian Anderson Really Thinks About the X-Files Reboot

Gillian Anderson herself has been surprisingly open about the possibility of returning. During a 2024 NBC TODAY appearance, she praised Coogler’s work and called his approach “an interesting way to bring the franchise back.”

More importantly, Anderson revealed something significant that this was the first time she’d been asked about a return since she had finished with the franchise, and now she may consider it, because of Coogler’s involvement.

Previously, Anderson has been saying “absolutely not” to an “X-Files” return for years. But Coogler? He’s now got her attention. That’s not just impressive; it’s practically miraculous.

In a more recent interview on ITV1’s This Morning, Anderson elaborated:

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, call me.’ At some point, if the phone rings, it’s good, and it feels like the right time, perhaps.

A definite maybe.

Chris Carter’s Blessing and Concerns

Series creator Chris Carter has been surprisingly gracious about stepping aside for this X-Files reboot. He’s confirmed that while he won’t be directly involved, he’s given Coogler his full blessing. He stated:

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.

Carter has also confirmed that Coogler “likes to go with a diverse cast” and “he’s got some good ideas.” However, Carter hasn’t been entirely without concerns. In April 2024, he suggested that Coogler’s reboot might face some challenges, though he kept those concerns vague.

What Makes This X-Files Reboot Different

Coogler has been clear about his vision for the X-Files reboot – he wants to honor longtime fans while making the universe accessible to newcomers. He said during a recent podcast interview:

You know, some of those episodes, if we do our jobs right, will be really f***ing scary,

This isn’t just another money-grabbing reboot. Coogler understands that The X-Files plot works best when it truly unsettles viewers. The fact that he’s prioritizing the horror elements suggests he gets what made the original series special.

He’s also been transparent about his approach to legacy characters. While he’s spoken with both Anderson and Duchovny, he’s taking a “fingers crossed” approach rather than banking everything on their involvement. Smart move – build something that can stand on its own, then let legacy characters enhance rather than carry the show.

The Timeline and What’s Next

This X-Files reboot has been in development since at least March 2023, when Carter first revealed Ryan Coogler’s involvement. Coogler has confirmed that the work on “The X-Files” is “immediately next” for him, and he’s “fired up to get back to it.” The man clearly has passion for the project, which matters more than most people realize.

Why This X-Files Reboot Could Actually Work

We’ve seen enough beloved franchises get butchered by well-meaning but misguided reboots. What gives us hope about Coogler’s approach is that he’s not trying to recreate the original – he’s trying to honor its spirit while bringing something new to the table.

The diversity aspect that Carter mentioned isn’t just box-checking; it’s smart storytelling. The “X-Files” has always worked best when it reflected contemporary anxieties and social issues.

A Few Last Thoughts on the X-Files Reboot

Coogler’s personal investment, (and his mom’s approval), Anderson’s cautious optimism, and Carter’s blessing suggest this isn’t just another soulless reboot. Will it recapture the magic of the original nine seasons? Probably not – that’s an impossibly high bar. But can it create something worthy of the “X-Files” name while bringing the franchise to a new generation? Based on everything we’ve heard so far, there’s reason for hope. The truth is out there.