David Duchovny on Ryan Coogler’s ‘The X-Files’ Reboot, and Why He Doubts UFO Stories

Actor David Duchovny, best known for his role as FBI Agent Fox Mulder, addressed the potential for his involvement in filmmaker Ryan Coogler's planned reboot of 'The X-Files' during a recent interview, while also expressing personal skepticism about modern UFO narratives. The conversation, which took place in the context of promoting the second season of the History Channel series 'Secrets Declassified,' revealed Duchovny's nuanced perspective on the franchise that defined his career and the cultural phenomena it explored. Regarding the highly anticipated reboot, Duchovny was characteristically coy, stating his potential participation is a 'maybe?' He emphasized that the project is firmly in Coogler's creative hands, suggesting a respectful distance from the new vision. This reflects a significant shift from the original series, which was famously helmed by creator Chris Carter. Duchovny's comments highlight the delicate balance for original cast members when iconic properties are reimagined by a new generation of filmmakers, especially one with Coogler's acclaimed track record ('Black Panther,' 'Creed'). Beyond the reboot, Duchovny delved into the core subject matter of 'The X-Files,' sharing his personal doubts about the current wave of UFO and UAP (Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena) stories circulating in government hearings and media. He contrasted today's discourse with the show's 1990s-era 'mythology,' suggesting a cultural difference in how the unknown is framed and consumed. His skepticism grounds the interview, separating the actor from his eternally believing character. The discussion also served to promote his ongoing work on 'Secrets Declassified,' a series that investigates historical mysteries, thereby keeping him professionally linked to themes of inquiry and the unexplained, albeit in a more reality-based format.