Gillian Anderson Praises Ryan Coogler’s ‘X-Files’ Reboot as Brilliant

Reboots of cherished sci-fi series often hinge on one crucial factor: the endorsement of the original creators. Fans have learned to approach vague, diplomatic praise from cast members with skepticism, especially when they are contractually obliged to be positive.

This is why Gillian Anderson’s recent comments about Ryan Coogler’s ‘X-Files’ reboot are creating such excitement. The actress, who first brought FBI Agent Dana Scully to life over thirty years ago, has been hinting at the project for months, but her latest remarks go further than any previous statements.

Anderson described the reboot’s pilot script as “brilliant,” commending its respect for the original series while also embracing innovative ideas. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, she expressed her confidence in Coogler’s vision for the next chapter of the franchise.

“I cannot wait to see it ’cause I think that he’s extraordinary,” Anderson said, referring to Coogler. “And I’ve read the script that he wrote and it’s brilliant. I was impressed by how different and yet how quintessentially [X-Files] it was.”

Her endorsement is significant, considering how protective ‘X-Files’ fans have historically been of the franchise. Anderson starred alongside David Duchovny in the original series, created by Chris Carter, which ran for nine seasons before returning for two additional revival seasons.

Coogler will write, direct, and executive produce the new pilot, with Jennifer Yale serving as showrunner and executive producer. The upcoming series will feature Himesh Patel and Danielle Deadwyler as new FBI agents, and the pilot has already completed filming in Vancouver, reminiscent of the original show’s 1990s production location.

Anderson’s recent comments build on months of increasingly positive signals about the project. Earlier this year, she referred to Coogler’s script as “really good” and “something different” during her appearance at Awesome Con, although she had not yet used the word “brilliant” until now.

She has also been somewhat coy about the possibility of reprising her role as Scully in the new series. While she has been non-committal about specifics, Anderson has indicated that she would be open to some form of involvement if the timing and role felt appropriate.

Coogler has expressed his desire for the reboot to honor long-time fans while attracting new viewers. Last year, he confirmed to Variety that he had spoken directly with Anderson about the project and expressed hope that she would eventually be part of it.

Duchovny has also commented on the reboot, telling The Hollywood Reporter in April that although he has not yet read the pilot script, there have been discussions about a potential cameo. This leaves the door open for both original leads to possibly interact with the new generation of agents.

The reboot arrives at a time when Coogler’s reputation in Hollywood is at an all-time high. His latest film, the vampire epic ‘Sinners,’ received widespread critical acclaim and box office success, heightening anticipation for his take on the paranormal FBI drama. Anderson has separately credited Coogler’s deep understanding of the source material as a reason for her confidence in the project.

Anderson also took the opportunity to manage expectations, encouraging long-time viewers to remain open-minded rather than assume the new series will simply revisit old themes. Her praise suggests that the pilot will explore fresh storytelling avenues while maintaining the essence that made the original show a cultural phenomenon in the 1990s.

With Coogler fresh off directing ‘Sinners,’ expectations for his interpretation of ‘X-Files’ have only intensified, and Anderson’s enthusiastic endorsement of the pilot script provides fans with yet another reason to feel optimistic.

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