Mystery Science Theater 3000 Returns with Classic Cast for New Episodes

The cult classic show is coming back for a limited run of 4 new episodes.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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After a years-long hiatus, the beloved comedy series Mystery Science Theater 3000 is returning with a new reboot featuring the show's classic cast. Original host Mike Nelson will be joined by former co-stars Kevin Murphy and Bill Corbett, who will reprise their roles as the robot companions Tom Servo and Crow T. Robot. Other fan-favorite cast members like Mary Jo Pehl, Trace Beaulieu, and Frank Conniff are also set to make appearances.

Why it matters

Mystery Science Theater 3000 has a devoted fanbase that has kept the show alive through multiple reboots and revivals over the decades. The return of the classic cast is seen as a win for longtime fans who have been clamoring for a return to the show's roots. This new limited series also marks an exciting new chapter for the cult classic as it looks to build on its legacy of irreverent humor and movie riffing.

The details

The new 4-episode run, titled "MST3K: RiffTrax Experiments", will feature the classic trio of Nelson, Murphy, and Corbett providing their signature comedic commentary on intentionally cheesy films. The production is aiming for a DIY aesthetic reminiscent of the show's early days. A successful Kickstarter campaign has already raised nearly $2 million to fund the new episodes, though the production is not dependent on the crowdfunding.

  • The new Mystery Science Theater 3000 episodes were announced on February 2, 2026.
  • The Kickstarter campaign for the new episodes launched in early 2026 and quickly surpassed its $20,000 goal.

The players

Mike Nelson

The former host of Mystery Science Theater 3000 during seasons 5-10, who is returning to reprise his role.

Kevin Murphy

The puppeteer and voice actor who portrayed the robot character Tom Servo on the original series, and is returning for the new episodes.

Bill Corbett

The puppeteer and voice actor who portrayed the robot character Crow T. Robot on the original series, and is also returning for the new episodes.

Mary Jo Pehl

The actress who played the villainous Pearl Forrester during seasons 7-10 of the original Mystery Science Theater 3000 series.

Trace Beaulieu

The actor who portrayed Dr. Clayton Forrester, one of the main antagonists, on the original Mystery Science Theater 3000 series.

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What they’re saying

“We must return to the show's roots and deliver the classic MST3K experience that fans know and love.”

— Mike Nelson, Host (Variety)

What’s next

The new 4-episode run of "MST3K: RiffTrax Experiments" is expected to premiere later in 2026 once production is complete.

The takeaway

After years of uncertainty, Mystery Science Theater 3000 is back with its original cast, signaling a return to the show's beloved formula of irreverent movie riffing. This new limited series represents an exciting new chapter for the cult classic that should delight longtime fans.