MST3K RiffTrax Experiments: The Gang Returns to the Satellite of Love

It feels like just yesterday that I was sitting cross-legged on my living room floor, adjusting the rabbit ears on a tiny TV to catch the static-filled glory of “Mystery Science Theater 3000.” For a certain generation of comedy nerds, there’s no silhouette more iconic than a man and his two robots, doomed to watch terrible movies in space.

If you’ve been missing the specific chemistry of Mike Nelson, Kevin Murphy, and Bill Corbett riffing together on the Satellite of Love, I have some news that might just make your head spin like a possessed owl. The classic crew is officially reuniting for “Mystery Science Theater 3000: The RiffTrax Experiments.”

In a move that feels like the ultimate fan service (in the best way possible), RiffTrax has partnered with Shout! Studios to produce four brand-new episodes of “MST3K.” Yes, you read that right. New episodes. Old crew. Same jumpsuit.

What is The RiffTrax Experiments?

Footage from “Mystery Science Theater 3000: The RiffTrax Experiments,” Couresty of Rifftrax|SHOUT! Studios

So, what exactly is happening here? For the uninitiated, let’s rewind the tape. MST3K is the legendary cult show where a host and his robot pals mock cheesy B-movies. RiffTrax is the company founded by former MST3K stars Mike Nelson, Kevin Murphy, and Bill Corbett, where they’ve been riffing on everything from Twilight to educational shorts since 2006.

While the trio has been working together for two decades under the RiffTrax banner, they haven’t actually stepped back into the MST3K universe as their original characters since the show ended its run on the Sci-Fi Channel (now Syfy) in 1999.

The RiffTrax Experiments bridges that gap. It’s a four-episode special event where Mike will once again don the jumpsuit as host Mike Nelson. Kevin Murphy returns to hoist Tom Servo (and play the blustering Professor Bobo), and Bill Corbett will be operating Crow T. Robot (and the omnipotent Brain Guy). Even the brilliant Mary Jo Pehl is returning as the delightfully evil Pearl Forrester.

It’s essentially the band getting back together for a reunion tour, but instead of playing greatest hits, they’re writing a whole new album.

The Kickstarter Campaign That Smashed Records

To fund this ambitious return to the Satellite of Love, the team turned to where the MST3K fandom lives and breathes: Kickstarter. They launched a campaign with a modest goal of $20,000 to help cover the costs of building sets, creating props, and sprucing up the ‘bots.

But “modest” isn’t a word that applies to this fanbase. The response was immediate and overwhelming. As of right now, the campaign has already raised over $1.4 million. It turns out, people really, really missed seeing Mike and the bots in their natural habitat.

The campaign runs through March 16, 2026, so there’s still time to jump in. The funds are going toward practical effects (because CGI just wouldn’t feel right on the SOL), licensing the movies they’ll be riffing, and ensuring the production quality matches the nostalgic charm we all remember.

Returning to Their Roots in Minneapolis

One of the most heartwarming details about this announcement is the location. The production is heading back to Minneapolis, the spiritual and literal home of MST3K.

The original show launched on a Minneapolis UHF station back in 1988 before making the jump to Comedy Central and eventually the Sci-Fi Channel. Returning to the Twin Cities to film these new episodes feels like a full-circle moment. It’s not just about recreating the set; it’s about recapturing the vibe.

The producers have promised to stick to the show’s “cowtown puppet show” aesthetic. We’re talking cheap, practical sets and handcrafted props. In an era where everything is green-screened to death, the commitment to hot glue and cardboard is practically revolutionary.

Why This Reunion Matters

You might be asking, “Haven’t they been riffing movies this whole time?” Technically, yes. RiffTrax has an incredible library of commentary tracks and has even done live shows in theaters. But there is a distinct difference between “Mike, Kevin, and Bill watching a movie” and “Mike, Tom Servo, and Crow trapped on a spaceship.”

The characters add a layer of chaotic energy that pure commentary sometimes lacks. There’s the sketches, the invention exchanges, the antagonistic relationship with the “Mads” (Mad Scientists). Seeing Mike interact with the puppets again brings a specific kind of joy that hits right in the nostalgia center of the brain.

Mike Nelson put it best in the announcement: “Getting a chance to revisit MST after all this time has really energized all of us at RiffTrax. And for my part, hey, I truly did miss standing next to plastic puppets. It’s been too long.”

What Movies Will They Riff?

This is the big question mark. The specific titles for the four new episodes haven’t been released yet. The team plans to reveal the movies over the course of the Kickstarter campaign, adding a layer of suspense to the fundraising.

Given their history, we can probably expect a mix of genres. RiffTrax has tackled everything from major blockbusters like Star Wars to obscure oddities like The Room. However, MST3K traditionally thrives on a specific kind of “cheesy” movie—think low-budget sci-fi, accidental horror, and bewildered monster flicks.

Whatever they choose, you can bet the riffs will be sharp. These guys have had 20 years of practice since leaving the show, and their comedic timing is tighter than ever.

Fan Reaction and What’s Next

If you scroll through the comments on the Kickstarter page or any entertainment news site, the vibe is electric. Fans are clamoring for this. There’s a lot of love for the recent MST3K revival seasons on Netflix and The Gizmoplex, but for many, the Mike/Kevin/Bill era is their era.

Seeing the original trio back in character feels like coming home. It’s a validation of the enduring power of this weird little puppet show.

The plan is to release the four episodes later in 2026 on the RiffTrax website. There’s also mention of a theatrical release via Fathom Events, which would be an absolute riot to experience with a crowd.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

When will the new MST3K episodes be released?

The target release window is late 2026. Production is scheduled for the spring and summer in Minneapolis.

Is Joel Hodgson involved?

While Joel Hodgson (the original creator and host) spearheaded the previous revivals, this specific project is a collaboration between RiffTrax and Shout! Studios. Joel sold his interest in the property to Shout! Studios’ parent company, but the spirit of the show remains intact.

Can I still back the Kickstarter?

Yes! The campaign is live until March 16, 2026. Even though they’ve smashed their initial goal, backing the project can get you digital downloads, exclusive updates, and other cool rewards.

Where can I watch the new episodes?

Once released, the episodes will be available on the RiffTrax website. Keep an eye out for potential theatrical screenings as well.

The Final Verdict

In a landscape of reboots and remakes that often feel cynical or hollow, “Mystery Science Theater 3000: The RiffTrax Experiments” feels genuinely special. It’s a labor of love from the guys who helped define the show’s golden era.

So, push the button, Frank. We’ve got movie sign!