Glee reboot confirmed by Ryan Murphy puts the original cast in limbo

Disney+ and Hulu have officially handed a formal series order to a reboot of the musical comedy-drama series Glee, produced by 20th Television. The green light was confirmed on Wednesday, October 21, according to reports from Variety and Deadline, as well as the official Glee account on X.

The show’s official X account celebrated the news by writing, “Currently gleeking out!”

What Ryan Murphy revealed about the script

The reboot script was developed and written by original series co-creators Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, and Ian Brennan. Murphy first discussed the project during an interview with Entertainment Tonight in late September 2026, explaining that the writing trio had crafted a new script together after writing the first two seasons of the original show.

Murphy also revealed in the interview that he had been in contact with around 10 members of the original series cast. He shared that the conversations were sweet, noting that while the actors had many questions, they were all enthusiastic about the idea of the reboot.

How the original cast reacted

Reactions from original cast members began emerging in the weeks leading up to the official green light. In a September 2026 interview with E! News, Lea Michele voiced her support for Murphy following early reports of the script, stating that she would follow him wherever he goes.

Original star Chris Colfer gave a different perspective in an interview with BroadwayWorld in early October 2026. “I know nothing and have heard absolutely nothing,” Colfer stated, explaining that he had not yet received details directly about the reboot project and hoped to have more information before thinking about it.

Harry Shum Jr., who is competing on Season 35 of Dancing with the Stars in 2026, also addressed the reboot buzz during an interview with Entertainment Tonight on September 30, 2026.

The McKinley High legacy

Created by Murphy, Falchuk, and Brennan, Glee originally aired on Fox for six seasons between 2009 and 2015. The series followed the New Directions glee club at William McKinley High School in Lima, Ohio, winning six Primetime Emmy Awards and four Golden Globe Awards while spawning chart-topping singles and soundtracks.

The series was also marked by loss over the years. Three of its lead cast members passed away during or after the show’s run: Cory Monteith in 2013, Mark Salling in 2018, and Naya Rivera in 2020.

What we do not know yet

Although Disney+ and Hulu have officially placed the order, several key details remain unannounced. The networks have not confirmed how many episodes were ordered, when production will start, or what the target premiere date is.

It is also unconfirmed whether any original cast members will return as series regulars, recurring characters, or guest stars, as no casting agreements have been announced. Additionally, it remains unknown whether the new storyline will focus on an entirely new high school choir, continue the stories of original characters, or use a hybrid format.