Chris Carter, the creator of the iconic science fiction series The X-Files, has expressed his strong desire to continue the story that began with the show's eleventh season. The Season 11 finale, "My Struggle IV," concluded with a significant reveal that Carter feels was intended for further exploration, despite dividing fans.
In a recent interview, Carter discussed The X-Files: I Want to Believe - Vrach Frankenshteyn, his director's cut of the franchise's second film. This new version aims to restore elements that were originally cut due to studio and rating restrictions, particularly a more horror-leaning tone. Carter explained that during the initial production of "I Want to Believe," the studio pushed for a PG-13 rating, leading to substantial edits that he felt compromised the film's X-Files ethos. The director's cut, however, allows for a more uncompromised vision, focusing on the horror aspects and streamlining the romantic subplot between Mulder and Scully to better align with the original series' core themes.
The inspiration for the film's central plot, a doctor transplanting a monkey's head, stemmed from Carter's research into actual scientific experiments. He also elaborated on the film's title, "I Want to Believe," and its connection to the series' enduring message of hope and perseverance, inspired by a profound statement from religious scholar Huston Smith: "Don't Give Up."
Carter believes The X-Files remains relevant today, attributing its continued appeal to the compelling relationship between its protagonists, Fox Mulder and Dana Scully. He highlighted their dynamic as respectful, combative, and ultimately a perfect model of a mutual relationship. The series' success, he noted, is also due to the talented writers, directors, and actors who contributed to its distinctive quality, including collaborators like Glen Morgan, James Wong, and Darin Morgan.
While acknowledging Ryan Coogler's upcoming X-Files reboot for Hulu, Carter emphasized his own intention to explore the storyline he carefully set up in the Season 11 finale. He has a "big reveal" planned and is eager to bring it to fruition, whether through a new TV series or a feature film. Carter stressed that he wants to support Coogler's project and avoid interfering with it, but he remains committed to continuing the main narrative thread of his original vision. The X-Files: I Want to Believe - Vrach Frankenshteyn is scheduled to premiere on Disney+ and Hulu on August 14, 2026.