TV reboots have become a popular trend lately, from “Scrubs” to “Malcolm in the Middle” to “Baywatch.” While fans are excited to reconnect with their favorite characters, not all reboots make it to the small screen. Here are a dozen planned reboots that never came to fruition, despite star power and audience anticipation.
The most recent disappointment in the world of reboots comes from the planned revival of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” Hulu had set up a series entitled “New Sunnydale,” with Sarah Michelle Gellar reprising her iconic role as Buffy Summers. Although the pilot had been filmed, Hulu decided to cancel the revival, much to Gellar’s surprise. Oscar-winning filmmaker Chloé Zhao, attached to direct the pilot, remains hopeful for the reboot’s future.
Another highly anticipated reboot that didn’t make it to TV screens was a revival of the beloved Disney Channel sitcom “Lizzie McGuire.” The reboot was canceled due to creative differences, with Disney wanting a family-friendly revival while the creative team, led by Hilary Duff and series creator Terri Minsky, aimed for a more adult focus.
In the wake of James Van Der Beek’s death, “Dawson’s Creek” creator Kevin Williamson revealed that the actor had plans to write a reboot of the beloved ’90s series. Despite a great idea for the show, the reboot never came to fruition.
One of the most influential dramas of the 1980s, “Murder, She Wrote,” was also set for a reboot in 2013, starring Octavia Spencer. However, the network ended up killing the reboot, with original star Angela Lansbury relieved that her legacy was left untouched.
Although not all reboots make it to the small screen, there is still hope for the future. TV fans eagerly await the next wave of nostalgic revivals, hoping to see their favorite characters brought back to life.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.