Robert Patrick, who played the tough but kind FBI Agent John Doggett, has spoken about his love for the character and his potential return in Ryan Coogler’s upcoming X-Files reboot. Patrick named Doggett his all-time favorite role and expressed interest in exploring what happened to the character after the original series ended. The new reboot, which will be set in the same universe as the original show, opens the door for past characters to make appearances.
Robert Patrick’s Connection to Agent Doggett
In a recent interview, Robert Patrick did not hold back his affection for the character of John Doggett, whom he played for two seasons. When asked about the role, he immediately replied, “That is my favourite character of all time!”
He went on to explain what makes the character so special to him, stating:
“It’d be interesting to see what’s happened to him in the elapsed time between him being there and wherever they pick up. They’ve never had me back before because of my schedule… But that’s the character that’s most dear to my heart, and what I loved about him was he was a very strong, tough guy, but had a heart of gold.”
Patrick joined The X-Files in its eighth season, stepping into a lead role after David Duchovny reduced his involvement. His character, a former Marine and police detective, was initially met with skepticism by fans. However, his performance as a dedicated agent with a hidden compassionate side eventually won over many viewers. Patrick was not part of the more recent revival seasons in 2016 and 2018, with scheduling conflicts being the reason he was never asked back.
Ryan Coogler’s Vision for the X-Files Reboot
Director Ryan Coogler, known for his work on Creed and Black Panther, is developing the new reboot through his deal with Disney Television. He has confirmed this project is his next big focus. After the success of his recent film Sinners, Coogler said on a podcast, “I’ve been excited about that for a long time and I’m fired up to get back to it.”
He also teased the tone of the new series, promising to deliver the scares that fans expect: “Some of those episodes, if we do our jobs right, will be really scary.”
While the reboot will introduce a new cast of characters, it will exist within the same world as the original series. This approach allows for the possibility of familiar faces to return. Coogler has already been in talks with original star Gillian Anderson about the project. He mentioned, “She’s incredible and fingers crossed there.” Anderson has also commented that she told Coogler he was the “perfect person” to reimagine the series and that she would consider returning if the timing and story were right.
Chris Carter, the original creator of The X-Files, has given Coogler his blessing for the new project, though he is not personally involved.
What John Doggett’s Return Could Mean
The potential return of Robert Patrick as John Doggett offers a chance to revisit a key part of the show’s history. Doggett was a central figure during a transitional period for the series, partnering first with Agent Scully and later with Agent Monica Reyes.
His character’s background as a grieving father who joined the FBI after the death of his son gave him a unique and grounded motivation. Exploring where life has taken him in the years since the original series ended would be a compelling storyline for both new and old fans.
Bringing back Patrick for the reboot would also allow the new production to honor the full legacy of the show, including the seasons that followed the departure of Mulder as a regular character. It would provide an opportunity to properly integrate Doggett’s story into the larger X-Files mythology under Coogler’s fresh creative direction.
Fan Reactions and Future Possibilities
Fans of the series have reacted positively to the news of Patrick’s openness to return. On social media, many have expressed excitement at the possibility of seeing Doggett again, noting that his performance was a highlight of the later seasons.
With the reboot still in early development, specific plot details and casting announcements are yet to be revealed. However, the commitment from Ryan Coogler and the willingness of original cast members like Robert Patrick and Gillian Anderson to be involved have generated significant optimism for the project. Coogler aims to “make something for the real X-Files fans and maybe find some new ones.”
Credits: Variety
