The return of Glee is official: after months of rumors, statements, and speculation, the musical series that has captured millions of viewers is gearing up to return to the small screen with a new project branded by Disney+ and Hulu. More than fifteen years after its debut in 2009, the phenomenon created by Ryan Murphy, Brad Falchuk, and Ian Brennan will have a fresh opportunity to win over audiences, but in what form and through what format?
The Glee reboot is official: what we know
The news comes on the heels of months of previews, when Murphy had confirmed he was developing a new script alongside his longtime collaborators. Now, with the official series order, the project is a reality. There are still many questions about the plot, the cast, and a potential release window, but one thing is certain: the Gleeks, as the show’s fans are affectionately called, finally have a reason to celebrate. Murphy had spoken of a possible Glee return just a month earlier and had noted that he was surprised by renewed interest from younger generations in the series. Although the show concluded in 2015 after six seasons, the musical comedy continued to attract new viewers even among those who had not known it before. At that time, he explained that the project was still in its early stages and that the script had not yet been read by the original cast.
Today, however, the situation has changed rapidly: Disney+ and Hulu have given the green light to the new series. The project is entrusted to 20th Television, the studio that had produced the original version as well. No production details have been announced, nor a release window, but the series order marks a turning point we surely would not have anticipated so soon.
The plot: A new generation of students at McKinley High?
The main question concerns the direction the reboot will take. The most intriguing hypothesis is a sequel—that is, a story capable of introducing new characters without abandoning the old ones (who could return as guest stars) and the elements that made Glee so recognizable: the music, the friendships, the rivalries, the first loves, and the challenges of growing up feeling like an outsider. Lima, Ohio’s McKinley High School could return to be the heart of the story, with a new group of students ready to carry on the legacy of New Directions, the school choir that was central to the series. It is not yet clear, however, whether the new series will follow the direct arcs of the familiar characters or take a different path, introducing a new generation of aspiring singers. For the moment, these are hypotheses, because the official plot has not yet been revealed. Ryan Murphy’s involvement, though, remains one of the central and most important elements of the new project.
Will the original cast return? Early rumors
Another major question concerns the possible return of the original performers. Before the official announcement, Murphy had said he had already been in contact with around ten members of the original cast. The initial conversations, according to the creator, were met with enthusiasm and curiosity, even though at the time no one had officially confirmed participation. Among the most anticipated names is naturally Lea Michele, unforgettable performer of Rachel Berry. The actress had already publicly expressed affection for the series and openness to considering a return, reaffirming the special bond she shares with Ryan Murphy and the world of Glee. In the original cast, we also had Chris Colfer, Jane Lynch, Kevin McHale, Matthew Morrison, Dianna Agron, Amber Riley, and Darren Criss, among others. The return would also have to contend with the absence of several cast members who have passed away in recent years, including Cory Monteith, who died in 2013, Mark Salling, who died in 2018, and Naya Rivera, who tragically disappeared in 2020. Chris Colfer, who portrayed Kurt Hummel, spoke about the possibility of a Glee return in an interview with Bustle, acknowledging that resuming the series would be complicated also due to Naya Rivera’s absence. “It was a really difficult show to make, and it would be very hard to do today, now that Naya isn’t here,” the actor said. Colfer acknowledged how fans are attached to the show, adding with irony: “I know Glee fans would probably come after me with torches if I said no.”
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