Gillian Anderson Addresses Ryan Coogler’s X-Files Reboot And Whether She Will Return For It

With Ryan Coogler set to dive into the unbelievable mysteries of The X-Files universe, original series star Gillian Anderson weighed in on whether she could see herself having a role in the upcoming reboot. The original series focused on a duo of FBI agents ran from 1993 to 2002 originally across 202 episodes for nine seasons, before returning in 2016 with a six-episode continuation. In The X-Files, Anderson played Dana Scully, the skeptical partner of David Duchovny’s more open-minded Fox Mulder.

While appearing on ITV’s This Morning, Anderson addressed whether she is playing any part in Coogler’s long-in-development X-Files reboot. She did confirm that she had spoken to the Sinners director to wish him her best in reimagining the series, while also stating that she would be willing to return if Coogler reached out and if she personally felt that the role was right. Check out Anderson’s full response below:

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 and it’s good and it feels like the right time — perhaps.

What Anderson’s Response Means For The X-Files Reboot

The Series May Not Reunite The Leading Pair

Previously, Coogler weighed in on whether Anderson would be involved in an interview with Last Podcast on the Left where he stated that he hopes to potentially work with the original series star and was optimistic about what the series may be. As such, while neither Coogler nor Anderson have explicitly confirmed the star’s involvement, it is clear that both creatives are open to the possibility if development progresses in a direction where Scully could return. However, while Scully may return, the other half of the FBI duo coming back is less certain.

While he has not outright stated that he would return to the role of Mulder, Duchovny stated in a 2024 interview that he was less committed to making a return and that the possibility didn’t weigh too heavily on his mind. Though he did state that he was certain that the writers on the series could create a worthy continuation in a modern context, he also stated that he was more focused on seeing the show unfold as an outsider. As such, it is unclear whether the series could return to the status quo of Mulder and Scully as leads.

Our Take On Anderson’s Potential The X-Files Return

Mulder’s Potential Return May Be In A Different Role

In the wake of Sinners‘ success with critics and audiences, many viewers are even more eager to see Coogler’s reimagining of The X-Files, especially as Anderson and original creator Chris Carter have given the director glowing support and praise. However, it remains unclear just how the series will approach its connections to the series’ past. However, with Anderson leaving room open for a Scully return despite Duchovny’s uncertainty, it is likely that the series could focus on a new generation diving into the unknown, with Scully potentially offering some guidance.

Source: This Morning, Last Podcast on the Left,