Actor Himesh Patel confirmed he and co-star Danielle Deadwyler will not play Mulder and Scully in Ryan Coogler’s upcoming X-Files reboot [1].
This clarification addresses fan speculation regarding the lead roles in the revival of the sci-fi franchise. The project represents a significant shift for the series under Coogler's direction, moving the story into a new era while maintaining the core essence of the original property.
Patel said to Entertainment Tonight that filming for the pilot episode was underway in Vancouver, Canada, in May 2026 [2]. While the specific nature of his and Deadwyler's roles remains undisclosed, the actor emphasized the physical demands of the production.
Patel said he intensified his gym routine to prepare for the physically demanding role in the reboot. This decision followed his experience working with Matt Damon on Christopher Nolan’s film, 'The Odyssey'. Patel said that the experience of filming alongside Damon motivated him to increase his fitness levels to meet the rigors of the X-Files set [1].
Beyond the reboot, Patel highlighted other recent projects. He said that Enola Holmes 3 began streaming on Netflix on July 1, 2026 [1]. The 35-year-old actor has balanced a diverse portfolio of work, transitioning from the lighthearted detective series to the intense physical requirements of Coogler's production [3].
Production in Vancouver continues to draw attention as the industry awaits further details on the plot, and the new dynamic between the lead characters. The reboot aims to modernize the paranormal investigation theme for a new generation of viewers while leveraging the creative vision of Ryan Coogler [2].
“Himesh Patel and Danielle Deadwyler will not be playing Mulder and Scully.”
By distancing the new leads from the iconic Mulder and Scully personas, Coogler is signaling a narrative departure rather than a direct replacement. This strategy allows the reboot to establish its own identity and avoid unfavorable comparisons to the original series' chemistry, while the casting of Patel and Deadwyler suggests a focus on fresh character dynamics.
