Himesh Patel and Danielle Deadwyler to Star in Ryan Coogler’s ‘X-Files’ Reboot

The pilot for Ryan Coogler’s “X-Files” reboot is set to film from May through June in Vancouver — the same city where the original series shot its early seasons.

Here comes word (via Deadline) that the two leads will be Himesh Patel and Danielle Deadwyler, replacing the original’s David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson.

Speaking of Anderson, she recently told EW having had “a few conversations” with Coogler, and that fans of the original should have “an open mind and give it a chance” because “it’s gonna be f*cking cool.”

From the latest casting grids, it sounds like the story could revolve around an investigation connected to Indigenous communities, with characters including a Bureau of Indian Affairs officer, a former biker trying to leave gang life behind, and a missing woman tied to a young girl who may be at the center of the mystery.

The pilot was greenlit over at Hulu. Jennifer Yale (“The Copenhagen Test”) has come on board as showrunner. Coogler will write and direct the pilot

Deadwyler first gained widespread attention for her role in “The Harder They Fall” (2021). She followed that with a powerful turn in “Till” (2022), portraying Mamie Till-Mobley with a heartbreaking intensity that showcased her ability to inhabit complex work. Beyond her film work, she’s also appeared in acclaimed TV series such as “P-Valley” and “Watchmen.”

Patel first gained widespread attention for his breakout role in Danny Boyle’s “Yesterday” (2019). He followed that with appearances in major productions like “Tenet” (2020) and “Don’t Look Up” (2021). He will next be seen in Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey,” portraying Eurylochus. Beyond his film work, he’s also delivered performances in the limited series “Station Eleven,” and shows such as “Avenue 5” and “The Luminaries.”

Coogler has stated that after he finishes X-Files, he’s going to shoot “Black Panther 3,” which is rumored to have a summer 2028 release date.