The highly anticipated revival pilot of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” at Hulu is progressing swiftly as it finalizes its main cast. Fans of the franchise are eager to see how this beloved story will be reimagined for a new generation.
According to Selection, the production has successfully added five new series regulars to the cast, complementing the previously announced stars, Sarah Michelle Gellar and Ryan Kiera Armstrong. This expansion of the cast indicates a commitment to developing rich, diverse characters in the reimagined universe.
The exciting new cast members include Faly Rakotohavana (“Unprisoned,” “Secret Society of Second Born Royals”) taking on the role of Hugo, Ava Jean (“A Week Away,” “Law & Order: SVU”) as Larkin, Sarah Bock (“Severance”) portraying Gracie, Daniel di Tomasso (“Witches of East End,” “Major Crimes”) as Abe, and Jack Cutmore-Scott (“Oppenheimer,” “Frasier”) as Mr. Burke. Each actor brings unique talents and perspectives that enrich the narrative landscape of this revival.
First reported back in February, the pilot is shrouded in mystery regarding its specific plot details. However, insider sources suggest that the storyline will center around a new slayer, played by Armstrong, with Gellar reprising her iconic role as Buffy in a recurring capacity. This continuation of the original story arc promises to attract both devoted fans and newcomers alike.
Faly Rakotohavana is represented by Media Artists Group, The ESI Network, and Katz Public Relations. Ava Jean is represented by Thruline Entertainment, Evolve Artists Agency, and Yorn Levine Barnes. Sarah Bock is represented by Kutalent Agency, Amplified, and Hansen Jacobson. Daniel di Tomasso is represented by Authentic Talent & Literary Management. Jack Cutmore-Scott is represented by UTA, Independent Talent Group, Entertainment 360, and Hansen Jacobson. This diverse representation highlights the growing talent pool in the industry.
Nora Zuckerman and Lila Zuckerman are onboard as writers, showrunners, and executive producers for the pilot. The talented Chloé Zhao is set to direct and executive produce under her Book of Shadows production banner. Gellar will also serve as an executive producer, alongside Gail Berman. The original producers, Fran Kuzui and Kaz Kuzui, will also return to executive produce through Suite B, while Dolly Parton will join as an executive producer through her Sandollar production company. The involvement of these industry veterans ensures a high-quality revival that honors the legacy of the original “Buffy” series.
Production on the pilot is currently underway, with Gellar recently sharing behind-the-scenes images from the first table read of the script. This glimpse into the production process has generated excitement and anticipation among fans who are eager to see the direction of the new series.
The original “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” began as a film featuring Kristy Swanson in the titular role. Written by Joss Whedon and directed by Fran Kuzui, the film debuted in 1992. Five years later, the television adaptation starring Gellar premiered on The WB. The show ran for its first five seasons on The WB before concluding its final two seasons on UPN. The cast included notable actors such as Nicholas Brendon, Alyson Hannigan, Charisma Carpenter, Anthony Stewart Head, David Boreanaz, Seth Green, and James Marsters, contributing to its lasting appeal. Following the series, Boreanaz starred in the spinoff series “Angel” on The WB for five successful seasons.
