Yesterday, just in time for Halloween, author Claudia Gray and Disney Books announced the continuation of one of science-fiction television’s most beloved properties, in novel form! The X-Files: Perihelion is due out next summer, and it will take place after the events that concluded the series. Find out more below.
What’s happening:
- Disney Books has announced a new novel entitled The X-Files: Perihelion, written by acclaimed author Claudia Gray (Star Wars: Lost Stars, Constellation series, Evernight series, Star Wars: The High Republic – Fallen Star).
- The X-Files ran on FOX for nine seasons from 1993 through 2002. It was then revived for two additional abbreviated seasons in 2016 and 2018. There were also two The X-Files theatrical movies released in 1998 and 2008.
- This new novel will take place after the 11th season of the show.
- There have been a number of official The X-Files novels and comic books released previously, though none have come out within the last five years.
- In 2019, The Walt Disney Company purchased 21st Century Fox and its holdings, which is when it acquired The X-Files.
What they’re saying:
- Disney Books: “The Truth Is Out There…But So Are Lies. #1 New York Times best-selling author Claudia Gray extends the story of The X-Files beyond its eleventh season in this thrilling–and romantic–original novel.”
- Official Synopsis: “Fox Mulder and Dana Scully are still reeling from the death of their son William, but cautiously joyous about Scully’s unexpected pregnancy. Determined to raise this child together, Mulder and Scully struggle to find meaning away from the X-Files as they navigate the uncertain waters of their relationship. Then the FBI asks for their help tracking down two mysterious serial killers: one who seems to be able to control electricity, and another who disappears from the scene of the crime in what witnesses describe as a puff of smoke. It’s enough for the Bureau to re-open the X-Files—if Mulder and Scully are willing. They reluctantly agree, cautious about what it might mean for them and their unborn child but determined to find justice for the killers’ victims. But their return to the X-Files sparks the interest of a shadowy cabal, the heirs to the now-dead Syndicate, and Mulder and Scully soon discover that their investigation is connected to a worldwide threat on an unprecedented scale . . . one with their own future at its heart.”
- Author Claudia Gray: “This is a real labor of love for me; many of you will have heard me talking about how my very first fiction was XF fanfic. So I couldn’t resist this chance! It’s set after the final TV seasons, as Mulder and Scully are reeling from those huge revelations, the defeat of the Syndicate, and the highly unexpected news of Scully’s pregnancy. They’re trying to figure out how to build a new life, and whether that’s something they can do together. But when the FBI contacts them about two serial murderers—each apparently employing paranormal powers—the X-Files beckons again. Mulder and Scully soon realize their investigation is tied to a sinister, far-reaching plan, one with their future at its very heart.”
The X-Files: Perihelion will be released on July 30th, 2024, but is already available for pre-order.