Ryan Kiera Armstrong Cast as New Slayer in Hulu’s ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ Reboot

Sarah Michelle Gellar Returns to the Buffyverse, Welcoming Armstrong in a Heartfelt Casting Reveal

Hulu’s upcoming reboot of the iconic series Buffy the Vampire Slayer has found its new lead: 15-year-old actress Ryan Kiera Armstrong. Best known for her roles in Firestarter, Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, and Anne with an E, Armstrong will portray the next generation’s Slayer in the pilot episode. Original series star Sarah Michelle Gellar is set to reprise her role as Buffy Summers in a recurring capacity and will also serve as an executive producer.

The casting announcement was made via a touching video shared on Instagram, where Gellar personally offered Armstrong the role, referring to her as “the chosen one.” Gellar praised Armstrong’s audition, highlighting her emotional intelligence and talent at such a young age.

The reboot’s pilot is penned by Nora and Lilla Zuckerman (Poker Face) and will be directed by Academy Award-winner Chloé Zhao (Nomadland, Eternals). Executive producers include Gellar, Gail Berman, Fran Kuzui, Kaz Kuzui, and Dolly Parton, who also produced the original series.

While specific plot details remain under wraps, the series is described as a continuation of the Buffyverse, introducing a new Slayer navigating the challenges of her destiny. The original series creator, Joss Whedon, is not involved in the reboot.

Armstrong expressed her gratitude and excitement on social media, stating she is “beyond thankful” and “in awe” of the opportunity to join the Buffy legacy

The reboot aims to blend the beloved elements of the original series with fresh perspectives, appealing to both longtime fans and new audiences.