Buffy the Vampire Slayer reboot casts Ryan Kiera Armstrong as new lead on Hulu

Hulu’s Buffy the Vampire Slayer reboot pilot has found its next chosen one — Ryan Kiera Armstrong.

The young actress has been cast in the lead role, stepping into the world of slayers alongside original series star Sarah Michelle Gellar, who returns in a recurring role as Buffy Summers.

Originally announced in February, the upcoming pilot will introduce a new generation of slayer mythology. While full plot details remain under wraps, the creative team behind the reboot includes Nora Zuckerman and Lila Zuckerman as writers, showrunners, and executive producers. Oscar-winning director Chloé Zhao will direct and executive produce under her Book of Shadows banner.

Sarah Michelle Gellar, who starred in the iconic 1997-2003 series, also serves as executive producer. Joining her are original producers Gail Berman, Fran Kuzui, Kaz Kuzui, and music legend Dolly Parton, through their respective banners. 20th Television and Searchlight Television are producing the project.

Gellar praised Armstrong, saying, “To have that kind of emotional intelligence and talent at such a young age is truly a gift.” The announcement was made via Gellar’s Instagram, where she surprised Armstrong with the casting news.

Armstrong’s recent credits include Skeleton Crew (Disney+), Anne with an E, American Horror Story, and Firestarter. Represented by Linden Entertainment and Innovative Artists, she’s poised to bring fresh energy to the beloved franchise.

The original Buffy the Vampire Slayer began as a 1992 film before becoming a cult hit TV series.