Ryan Coogler’s X-Files reboot keeps adding to its new cast.
Himesh Patel has now joined the Hulu pilot opposite Danielle Deadwyler, with both actors playing new original characters rather than legacy roles tied to the classic series.
Deadline first reported Patel’s casting, and Variety also reported that he will star alongside Deadwyler in the pilot, which Hulu recently greenlit. The actor confirmed the news on Instagram.
Himesh Patel and Danielle Deadwyler play new FBI agents
Coogler is writing and directing the pilot for the new X-Files.
The story centers on two highly decorated but very different FBI agents who are assigned to a long-shuttered division focused on cases involving unexplained phenomena.
Deadwyler and Patel play those two agents, who form an unlikely bond as they take on the paranormal.
Ryan Coogler is putting his own stamp on The X-Files
Coogler has previously said the show is a personal project for him and that he wants to do right by both fans and his mother, who is a big fan of the original series.
He also previously teased that, if they do it right, some of the episodes will be “really f—ing scary,” signaling that horror remains a big part of the plan.
Jennifer Yale is attached as showrunner. Original X-Files creator Chris Carter is also executive producing alongside Coogler and Proximity Media.
A new duo, but questions remain about legacy cast
With Patel and Deadwyler confirmed as the new central pair, the reboot appears to be fully committed to original lead characters. That said, there is still no confirmation about whether Gillian Anderson or David Duchovny will appear.
Anderson recently did say good things about Coogler’s take: “He’s such a cool guy and so talented. The pilot script is really good.”
She added, “I would say, have an open mind and give it a chance because it’s gonna be f***ing cool. It’s something different. It’s different, and it’s special, so give it a break.”
