Lea Michele Joins Talks for 'Glee' Reboot as Disney+ and Hulu Greenlight Series

Key points

• Lea Michele is in discussions to return as Rachel Berry in the 'Glee' reboot.
• Disney+ and Hulu have officially ordered the new series, produced by 20th Television.
• Co-creator Ryan Murphy has spoken with about ten original cast members, who are enthusiastic but have not yet read the script.
• Matthew Morrison is not currently in talks for the reboot, though sources indicate he remains hopeful for involvement.
• The original series ran for six seasons from 2009 to 2015, winning six Emmy Awards.

Background

In late September 2026, Ryan Murphy confirmed he had completed a reboot script with co-creators Brad Falchuk and Ian Brennan. At that time, no network had officially picked up the project, though Murphy reported that original cast members were enthusiastic about the concept. The original 'Glee' series aired on Fox from 2009 to 2015, becoming a cultural phenomenon known for its musical performances and social commentary. The show faced significant tragedy, including the deaths of cast members Cory Monteith, Naya Rivera, and Mark Salling between 2013 and 2020.

How outlets are covering it

Deadline reports that Lea Michele is in talks to reprise her role, noting that Matthew Morrison is not currently in discussions despite being hopeful. Variety confirms the series order from Disney+ and Hulu but emphasizes that casting details are currently scant, relying on Murphy's previous comments about cast enthusiasm. BBC provides broader context on the show's cultural impact and notes that former cast member Max George expressed interest in returning, while also highlighting the challenges of rebooting the series following the deaths of key cast members like Naya Rivera and Cory Monteith. All sources agree on the official greenlight but differ in the level of detail regarding specific casting negotiations.

Why it matters

The reboot of 'Glee' marks a significant return for a major cultural phenomenon that defined musical television in the 2010s. The involvement of Lea Michele and the official series order signal a renewed interest in the franchise, potentially revitalizing its music and fanbase. However, the project faces complex challenges due to the tragic deaths of several original cast members, which may influence how the new series handles legacy characters and storylines. The move to Disney+ and Hulu also reflects the streaming landscape's continued appetite for established IP reboots.

What to watch

Casting decisions for the 'Glee' reboot are expected to be announced in the coming weeks, with Lea Michele's participation likely to be confirmed soon. The production, led by 20th Television, will need to address how to handle the legacy of deceased cast members and the absence of certain original actors like Matthew Morrison. The series is expected to premiere on Disney+ and Hulu in 2027, following the completion of the script and finalization of the cast.