Disney+ and Hulu Greenlight 'Glee' Reboot After Murphy Finalizes Script

Key points

• Disney+ and Hulu have issued a series order for a 'Glee' reboot, with 20th Television handling production.
• Ryan Murphy, along with co-creators Brad Falchuk and Ian Brennan, has completed a script for the new version of the series.
• Murphy has been in contact with around ten original cast members, who reportedly expressed enthusiasm for the project despite unanswered questions.
• The original series ran for six seasons on Fox from 2009 to 2015 and won six Emmy Awards.
• No specific casting details or premiere dates have been released, though Disney noted the original show’s music averages 4 million monthly listeners on Spotify.

Background

The original 'Glee' series, which debuted in 2009, became a cultural phenomenon known for its musical performances and social commentary. It concluded in 2015 after six seasons. In recent months, Ryan Murphy had publicly discussed the possibility of a reboot, citing the show's continued relevance among younger audiences. This development follows other high-profile reboots on the same platforms, such as the recently ordered 'X-Files' revival on Hulu, indicating a broader industry trend toward reviving legacy properties for streaming audiences.

How outlets are covering it

All four outlets—Deadline, Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, and TVLine—confirm the series order and the involvement of 20th Television. Deadline and Variety emphasize Murphy's recent script completion and his outreach to original cast members, noting the enthusiasm of those contacted. The Hollywood Reporter highlights the lack of public details in Disney's press release, noting that creative team deals are still being finalized. TVLine provides additional context on the original cast's legacy, mentioning specific actors like Melissa Benoist and Finneas O'Connell, and notes the tragic deaths of several original stars, including Naya Rivera and Cory Monteith, which may complicate the reboot's narrative. All sources agree that the show's continued popularity on Spotify and streaming platforms is a key driver for the revival.

Why it matters

The 'Glee' reboot signals a continued appetite for nostalgic, high-concept musical dramas in the streaming era. It reflects Disney's strategy to leverage legacy intellectual property to drive subscription engagement on Hulu and Disney+. The involvement of original creators and potential cast returns suggests an attempt to maintain the show's cultural authenticity while adapting it for a new generation of viewers.

What to watch

Expect announcements regarding specific cast members and the creative team in the coming weeks. Production details, including a potential premiere date and the extent of the original cast's involvement, will likely be revealed as deals are finalized. The show's reception will depend on how it handles the legacy of the original series and the absence of several deceased cast members.