The Buffy the Vampire Slayer reboot at Hulu is gaining momentum, and fans of the iconic supernatural drama just got some exciting casting news. Three new actors — Merrin Dungey, Audrey Hsieh, and Audrey Grace Marshall — have officially joined the pilot episode, which could potentially lead to a full series.
This marks the first official revival of Joss Whedon’s 1997 cult classic, with Sarah Michelle Gellar reprising her legendary role as Buffy Summers while also serving as an executive producer.
New Faces Joining the Buffy Reboot
Hulu’s Buffy Reboot is introducing a blend of fresh talent and returning fan favorites. The newly announced guest stars could become recurring characters if Hulu gives the green light for a full season after the pilot premiere.
- Merrin Dungey will portray Ms. LaDuca, the college counselor at New Sunnydale Academy. Dungey’s notable credits include The Lincoln Lawyer, Shining Vale, American Horror Stories, and The Resident.
- Audrey Hsieh joins as a high school student and member of the school’s Evangelical Christian group. She’s best known for her roles in Found, Criminal Minds, and Medalist.
- Audrey Grace Marshall will play another student in the same group. She has appeared in The Fairly OddParents: Fairly Odder, The Flight Attendant, and Echo Valley.
These new additions will appear alongside previously announced series regulars Faly Rakotohavana, Ava Jean, Sarah Bock, Daniel Di Tomasso, and Jack Cutmore-Scott. Actor Kingston Vernes has also joined as a guest star and the lead love interest.
Returning Legends and New Slayer
The biggest draw for long-time fans is undoubtedly Sarah Michelle Gellar’s return as Buffy Summers. Gellar’s involvement adds a nostalgic connection to the original Buffy the Vampire Slayer, which aired from 1997 to 2003 and became a cornerstone of supernatural television.
In the reboot, the focus will shift to a new slayer named Nova, played by Ryan Kiera Armstrong. Nova is described as an introverted high school girl who will train under Buffy’s guidance. This mentorship dynamic promises a blend of familiar lore and fresh storytelling.
Creative Team Behind the Pilot
The Buffy Reboot pilot is directed by Chloé Zhao, the Academy Award-winning filmmaker behind Nomadland and Eternals. The script comes from Nora and Lilla Zuckerman, whose previous credits include Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and Prodigal Son.
With Zhao’s cinematic vision and the Zuckermans’ television expertise, fans can expect a polished mix of supernatural action, coming-of-age drama, and character-driven storytelling.
Guest Appearance by Chase Sui Wonders
In addition to the three new faces, Gellar will reunite with her I Know What You Did Last Summer co-star Chase Sui Wonders. Wonders will make a one-off guest appearance in the pilot, playing a character named Shirley. Her scenes were filmed in Los Angeles, and while details about her role remain under wraps, her involvement adds another layer of star power to the project.
Speaking to Deadline, Wonders shared her excitement about working with Gellar again, hinting at the warm chemistry and professionalism that fans might see translated on screen.
Storyline of Hulu’s Buffy Reboot
While the pilot’s plot remains mostly under wraps, here’s what we know: the story will introduce Nova, a new slayer who’s navigating high school life while preparing to take on the mantle of vampire slayer. Under Buffy’s mentorship, Nova will learn about the dangers lurking in the shadows — and the responsibility that comes with the role.
The setting, New Sunnydale Academy, suggests that the series will retain ties to the original show’s Hellmouth-laden location, with fresh threats and a new generation of characters stepping into the spotlight.
No Release Date Yet
Hulu has not yet announced a release date for the Buffy Reboot pilot. Its future as a full-fledged series will likely depend on the pilot’s reception from both fans and executives. Given the passionate fanbase of the original Buffy the Vampire Slayer, anticipation is already high.
Final Thoughts
The addition of Merrin Dungey, Audrey Hsieh, and Audrey Grace Marshall to Hulu’s Buffy Reboot brings exciting new energy to the project. With Sarah Michelle Gellar returning as Buffy Summers, Ryan Kiera Armstrong stepping in as the new slayer, and Chloé Zhao at the helm, this revival has the potential to blend nostalgia with a bold new chapter in the Buffyverse.
Are you excited to see Buffy Summers return to train a new generation of slayers? Share your thoughts in the comments and keep following Trending News Buzz for the latest updates on the Buffy Reboot release date, cast, and behind-the-scenes news.
