Danielle Deadwyler in Talks for Lead Role in Ryan Coogler’s Bold X-Files Reboot

Move over Mulder and Scully, there’s a new pair of truth seekers on the horizon, and one of them may just be played by Danielle Deadwyler. Reports are swirling that Deadwyler is in talks to join Ryan Coogler’s highly anticipated reboot of The X-Files as a lead paranormal investigator. Already, fans are buzzing and speculative synapses are firing: could this be the X-Files reimagined for a bold new era?

The reboot has been longtime whispered about, but momentum appears to be building. Coogler, fresh from the critical buzz surrounding Sinners, has publicly stated that The X-Files is “what’s immediately next.” His passion for the project is clear, he’s expressed ambition for episodes that are genuinely eerie, rather than leaning into camp. The vibe: serious chills. The goals: honor the original, but push it forward.

With Chris Carter, the original creator, back in the mix and weighing in on this revival, the foundations are solid. Carter has reportedly encouraged Coogler’s vision of a more diverse cast, and he has spoken with original X-Files star Gillian Anderson about the project. While Anderson has not officially committed to reprising Agent Dana Scully, she has responded warmly to the idea, even offering Coogler an open invitation to “call me” should the script feel right.

Enter Danielle Deadwyler into this mix of legacy and reinvention. Her credits are already impressive: The Harder They Fall, Till, The Piano Lesson, and more. If she lands the role, she would be one half of the new investigative team, tapping into unexplained phenomena, strange signals, and conspiracies. Alongside her male counterpart (unnamed at this stage), she would form the centerpiece of the reboot’s new narrative thrust.

Deadwyler’s involvement would send a strong signal: that this version of The X-Files intends to amplify fresh voices, deep emotional stakes, and maybe even break new ground in genre storytelling. Meanwhile, the reboot’s balancing act begins: preserving the eerie mystery and paranoia that made the original iconic, while making it feel contemporary, inclusive, and bold.

We shouldn’t assume Mulder (David Duchovny) and Scully (Gillian Anderson) will return as leads, if they reappear, it may be in cameo or legacy-echo roles. But their legacy looms large, and the reboot would have to reckon with it. And if Deadwyler signs on, she might be the perfect torchbearer for the show’s next chapter.

Official casting announcements are still pending. But if Deadwyler joins, Coogler’s X-Files could emerge as one of the most exciting television reboots in years, a series that respects its roots while daring to break new cosmic boundaries. For fans of the weird, the unexplained, and the downright spooky, the truth may soon have new faces after all.