Chloé Zhao Is ‘Not Surprised’ Her ‘Buffy’ Reboot Got Staked at Hulu

buffy the vampire fans We’ve been excitedly awaiting more updates on the remake announced a year ago – but the latest word was far from happy. Hulu is not moving forward Buffy: New SunnydaleWhich will see Sarah Michelle Gellar returning to slay vampires with a new character played by Ryan Kiara Armstrong.

Oscar-winning filmmaker and renowned buffy Fan Chloé Zhao was brought on board to executive produce and direct the pilot, and since she was at the Oscars last night (nominated for it this time) Hamnett), he was asked on the red carpet buffyRecent cancellation of.

Speaking to Variety, Zhao was quick to clarify that her funeral attire was themed HamnettNot there. buffy news. But she seems to have taken the news in stride, saying she was “not surprised” that Hulu wasn’t moving forward with the reboot.

Chloé Zhao says she’s “not surprised” #buffy Reboot canceled at Hulu.

The CNN and Variety Red Carpet Afterparty is now live on the CNN app and YouTube. #Oscar pic.twitter.com/BxGA31LpPl

– Diversity (@Diversity) 16 March 2026

“I had an incredible, incredible time with Sarah, the entire cast and crew doing this and we, first and foremost, see ourselves as custodians of the original show,” Zhao said. “Our priority has always been to stay true to the show and be true to our fans. So things happen for a reason, and we keep our hearts open, and we welcome the mystery of where it might take us.”

Variety asked if she would shop it to another network or streamer, and Zhao reiterated, “The mystery is welcome.”

Deadline’s piece reporting on the cancellation states that “Sources have described [the pilot] As for ‘not perfect’, there may not be a perfect match for a reboot considering Zhao’s sensitivities. Additionally, “As recently as earlier this week there were discussions about re-picking the pilot. Ultimately, Hulu opted not to move forward with it but it remains buffy plans to reimagine and consider the IP and potential new incarnation of the beloved franchise.”

This suggests that the “mystery” may not be whether Zhao’s version takes off elsewhere, but rather whether Hulu can find a new creative team to try again. Hopefully if that happens, Geller will be front and center once again.

Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.