FX has officially picked up the pilot for 'Very Young Frankenstein,' a comedy series inspired by Mel Brooks' 1974 cult classic, to series for FX and Hulu. The announcement follows an initial pilot order in September 2025. The show features a notable cast, including Zach Galifianakis, Dolly Wells, and Spencer House, with their specific roles yet to be detailed.
The project, described as an "original take" and a potential prequel to the original film, is executive produced by Mel Brooks himself, alongside Stefani Robinson, Taika Waititi, and Garrett Basch. Robinson and Waititi, who previously collaborated on FX's 'What We Do in the Shadows,' are key creative forces behind the new series. Waititi is also slated to direct the pilot episode.
The series' development signals FX's ongoing engagement with established comedic intellectual property, building on their experience with Brooks' 'History of the World, Part 2' and the upcoming 'Spaceballs' sequel. 'Very Young Frankenstein' will be available for streaming on Hulu, should it be picked up to series.
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Expanded Cast and Creative Team
Joining the core trio in the pilot are Nikki Crawford and Kumail Nanjiani. Cary Elwes was also previously reported to star in the pilot. The involvement of Brooks, a celebrated filmmaker known for his distinctive parodies, alongside the 'What We Do in the Shadows' creative team, positions the series as a significant comedic venture. Kevin Salter, Brooks' producing partner on projects like 'History of the World, Part 2,' and Michael Gruskoff, a producer on the original 'Young Frankenstein,' are also executive producing.
Contextualizing the Legacy
Mel Brooks' 'Young Frankenstein,' starring Gene Wilder as Dr. Frederick Frankenstein (the grandson of Victor Frankenstein), remains a beloved parody of classic 1930s and '40s monster movies. The original film's cast included Cloris Leachman, Marty Feldman, Teri Garr, Madeline Kahn, Peter Boyle, and Kenneth Mars. The new series, with its title suggesting a prequel narrative, taps into the enduring appeal of this cinematic landmark, promising a fresh exploration of its established universe. No release date or further plot details have been announced.
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