Ryan Coogler's 'X-Files' Reboot Gets Hulu Pilot Order with Danielle Deadwyler

The long-gestating reboot of the classic sci-fi series will be led by Coogler and feature Deadwyler as one of the FBI agents investigating unexplained phenomena.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Ryan Coogler's 'The X-Files' reboot has received a pilot order from Hulu, with Danielle Deadwyler set to co-star in the project from Onyx Collective and 20th Television. Jennifer Yale has joined as showrunner, and Coogler is writing and directing the pilot. The story follows two FBI agents, one played by Deadwyler, who form an unlikely bond while investigating unexplained phenomena.

Why it matters

The X-Files was a hugely popular and influential sci-fi series that ran for nine seasons in the 1990s, spawning two films and a revival in 2016. Coogler's involvement as writer and director, along with the casting of rising star Danielle Deadwyler, has generated significant anticipation and excitement among fans of the original series.

The details

Coogler, known for films like 'Black Panther' and 'Sinners', is writing and directing the pilot. The story follows two highly decorated but contrasting FBI agents, one played by Deadwyler, who form an unlikely bond when assigned to a dormant division investigating unexplained phenomena. Jennifer Yale will serve as showrunner and executive producer, alongside 'The X-Files' creator Chris Carter, Coogler, Sev Ohanian, and Zinzi Coogler of Proximity Media.

  • Coogler confirmed his involvement in the reboot in April 2025.
  • The original X-Files series premiered on Fox in 1993 and ran for nine seasons.

The players

Ryan Coogler

An acclaimed filmmaker known for directing films like 'Black Panther' and 'Sinners'. He is writing and directing the pilot for the 'X-Files' reboot.

Danielle Deadwyler

An up-and-coming actress who is set to co-star in the 'X-Files' reboot as one of the FBI agents investigating unexplained phenomena.

Jennifer Yale

The showrunner who has joined the 'X-Files' reboot project, with previous credits including 'The Copenhagen Test' and 'Your Friends and Neighbors'.

Chris Carter

The creator of the original 'X-Files' series, who is executive producing the reboot.

Onyx Collective

The production company behind the 'X-Files' reboot, in partnership with 20th Television.

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What they’re saying

“Coogler confirmed his involvement in April 2025, promising fans a series that honors the original while delivering 'really f*cking scary' episodes.”

— Ryan Coogler, Director and Writer (Deadline)

What’s next

The pilot for the 'X-Files' reboot is currently in production, with a target release date on Hulu to be announced.

The takeaway

The return of 'The X-Files' with Ryan Coogler at the helm and rising star Danielle Deadwyler in a lead role has generated significant excitement among fans of the original series. The reboot promises to honor the legacy of the show while delivering a fresh and terrifying take on the iconic sci-fi franchise.