The X-Files Reboot Confirmation & Everything We Know
After a 14-year hiatus, the truth is out there once again. The X-Files, the beloved and iconic sci-fi horror franchise, is set to return to our television screens in 2016. In January 2015, it was announced that the show would be revived for a limited 6-episode season, with original creator Chris Carter and stars David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson returning to reprise their roles as FBI Special Agents Dana Scully and Fox Mulder.
Confirmation and Premiere Date
In May 2015, Fox officially confirmed the revival, and in October 2015, the network announced that the new season would premiere on January 24, 2016. The limited season, which consists of 6 episodes, will air over the course of three weeks, with two episodes premiering each night.
Casting and New Characters
While David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson will reprise their iconic roles, the new season will also introduce some fresh faces. New cast members include:
- Founding members of the conspiracy theory group known as "Thepany," played by:
- Joel McHale (Community) as TunnCEL
- Annet Mahendran (The Impossible-a and Black Sails) as Dr. Jamil
*iddy (Seattle PD), played by Lucius Pierce (The 100)
- Tye, a "paranoid and obsessive time-keeper," played by Devon Gray (Atlanta)
- Ed Winston, a "charismatic and intimidating" figure, played by rapper and actor, William B. Davis (Black-ish)
Storyline and Plot Details
While the official plot details are still under wraps, it’s been confirmed that the new season will explore more of the mythology surrounding the Black Oil, the alien abduction cases, and the mysterious syndicate, Thepany. The premiere episode, "My Struggle," will focus on Mulder’s efforts to uncover the truth about his sister’s disappearance and the conspiracy surrounding the X-Files.
Behind-the-Scenes
Chris Carter, the creator of The X-Files, will return as an executive producer on the new season, alongside co-creator Vince Gilligan (Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul). The show will be produced by 20th Century Fox Television and Ten Thirteen Productions. James Wong (The L Word, The Haunting in Connecticut) will direct the premiere episode.
Marketing and Promotions
To promote the reboot, Fox launched an extensive marketing campaign, including:
- A "Say No to the Truth" social media campaign, asking fans to share their own conspiracy theories and experiences.
- A "Rewind" promotional campaign, which re-aired classic episodes of the original series, with new commentary from David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson.
- The "X-Files: The Event" fan experience, a pop-up event in New York City, featuring a mock FBI headquarters, artifacts, and a mini-maze inspired by the show’s themes.
Conclusion
The X-Files reboot is set to bring back the excitement and intrigue of the original series, while introducing new characters and storylines to captivate a new generation of fans. With the return of David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson, the classic duo that made the show a phenomenon, the stage is set for an unforgettable ride. Get ready to "Trust No One" and dive back into the world ofMulder and Scully on January 24, 2016.