The shocking news has come that the 'Buffy' reboot project, which had thrilled fans worldwide with the return of legendary 'Vampire Slayer' lead and teen idol Sarah Michelle Gellar, has been canceled. In particular, lead actress Sarah Michelle Gellar spoke out directly about the situation and revealed behind-the-scenes details, causing a stir.
In an exclusive interview with People on the 16th (local time), Sarah Michelle Gellar confessed her feelings about Hulu's sudden decision to cancel the reboot, saying, "No one expected this outcome."
For Sarah Michelle Gellar, the 13th was a celebratory day as her first screen return in 20 years, Ready or Not 2, premiered at the SXSW Film Festival. But just before going on stage, she received a phone call notifying her that the 'Buffy' reboot project was being halted.
What made it more baffling was the timing. Chloe Zhao, who had been set to direct the reboot, had been nominated for the Oscar for best director for the film Hamnet and was about to attend the awards ceremony. Gellar said, "The fact that they made that call on the world premiere weekend of a film we worked so hard on, when it should have been the director's triumphant moment, speaks volumes," and could not hide her bitterness.
Sarah Michelle Gellar pointed to a specific executive as the decisive reason the project collapsed. She revealed, "One executive on our show not only wasn't a fan of the original, but proudly boasted that they had never watched the entire series."
She added, "It was an uphill battle from the start that someone who hadn't even watched the original was leading a work that is precious to fans around the world, to me and to director Chloe Zhao." The internal conflicts that arose from someone who didn't love the beloved IP handling it ultimately led to disaster.
The reboot was to mark a generational shift with Sarah Michelle Gellar's return and new slayer Ryan Kiera Armstrong starring. The pilot episode had already finished filming, making the disappointment greater. Gellar said, "Ryan is a superstar. My heart is torn that no one will get to see her as the slayer," expressing affection for the younger actress.
When the news broke, all of her fellow original 'Buffy' cast members, including David Boreanaz, reached out to offer comfort. Sarah Michelle Gellar told disappointed fans, "This decision does not tarnish Buffy's legacy. Buffy is a timeless figure, and that legacy is still beside you, the fans."
Currently, the copyright to 'Buffy' is held by Disney, making an immediate move to another platform difficult. But sources say Hulu still has affection for this IP and is considering other ways to develop it in the future.
It is clear that this news has left a deep wound for fans who were anticipating Buffy's return.<
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