AceShowbiz - A new sequel to Buffy the Vampire Slayer is in development at Hulu, featuring the return of Sarah Michelle Gellar as the iconic character. Director and co-executive producer Chloe Zhao recently shared her thoughts on the project, revealing that taking on such a cherished series has left her feeling more anxious than when she worked on the Steven Spielberg-produced drama, Hamnet.

Zhao expressed her concerns about tackling a show with a dedicated and passionate fanbase, stating, "I am always nervous when the fandom is massive, and very loyal, and passionate. And I am also a part of it. It's so much scarier than 'Hamnet,'" in an interview with Deadline. Having previously directed the acclaimed Marvel film, Eternals, Zhao recognizes the importance of meeting the expectations of devoted fans. She likened this to her own experiences with Japanese manga, highlighting how deeply people can connect with their favorite stories.

Despite her apprehensions, it’s clear that Zhao is a perfect fit for the role. In fact, it was her vision that convinced Gellar to reprise her role as Buffy after years of hesitation.

For years, Gellar resisted the idea of returning to Sunnydale, turning down numerous offers to dust off her stakes. However, after hearing Zhao's pitch for the reboot, she realized that a revival of Buffy the Vampire Slayer was more necessary now than ever. "Chloe had this idea in a world and the passion with which she spoke both about her idea and the show made me realize that now more than ever we need those heroes to believe in," Gellar told Variety.

In a separate discussion with Vanity Fair, Gellar praised Zhao's unique perspective, saying, "[She has] an international eye which broadens the scope of what we can achieve." While the upcoming revival will introduce a new Slayer, Gellar reassured fans that it aims to return to the familiar world they love, rather than completely reimagining it.