Buffy Reboot at Hulu Officially Canceled, Sarah Michelle Gellar Confirms
Hulu has decided to halt production on its planned reboot of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, star Sarah Michelle Gellar confirmed on Saturday, March 14, 2026. The news brings an end to a project that had generated significant buzz and anticipation among fans of the original series.
Gellar Announces the Cancellation
Gellar shared the news via an Instagram post, stating, “Unfortunately, Hulu has decided not to move forward.” She expressed sadness over the decision but thanked Oscar-winning director Chloé Zhao for the opportunity to revisit the role of Buffy Summers. People.com first reported the news.
What Was ‘Buffy: New Sunnydale’?
The reboot, tentatively titled Buffy: New Sunnydale, was envisioned as a continuation of the original series rather than a direct remake. It was set in a world that hadn’t seen Buffy in some time and would have featured a new slayer, played by Ryan Kiera Armstrong, alongside Gellar reprising her iconic role. MovieWeb details the project as a continuation of the Buffyverse.
Zhao’s Involvement and Pilot Concerns
Chloé Zhao, known for her work on films like Nomadland and Eternals, was attached to direct the pilot episode, written by Nora and Lilla Zuckerman (Poker Face). However, Deadline reports that the pilot was described as “not perfect,” with some sources suggesting Zhao’s creative sensibility may not have been the ideal fit for the reboot.
Hulu’s Future Plans for the ‘Buffy’ IP
Despite canceling the current iteration, Hulu remains interested in the Buffy the Vampire Slayer franchise. The studio plans to regroup and explore potential new approaches to bringing the beloved series back to the screen. US Magazine confirms Hulu will not be moving forward with the reboot despite fan demand.
Gellar’s Reflections
Gellar expressed gratitude for the experience, stating she was reminded of her love for the character. She jokingly offered to be contacted in the event of an actual apocalypse, referencing Buffy’s role as a protector.