Warner Bros. is reportedly moving forward with a new film adaptation of the classic television series Get Smart, and comedian‑actor John Mulaney is in discussions to star as the bumbling secret agent Maxwell Smart, sources say.
Project Development
The studio has engaged screenwriter Seth Grahame‑Smith, known for his work on Snow White and the Huntsman and The Disaster Artist, to pen the reboot's script. According to Variety, Mulaney is "circling" the lead role, indicating that negotiations are underway but not yet finalized. The Hollywood Reporter and Deadline similarly report that the comedian is "in talks" to assume the iconic part.
"John Mulaney is circling the role of Agent Maxwell Smart in Warner Bros.' upcoming movie reboot of ‘Get Smart,’" — Variety
The project is described as being in "very early stages" by the same source, meaning that casting, budgeting and a production schedule have yet to be confirmed. No official release date or attached director has been announced, and Warner Bros. has not released a public statement.
Cultural Context
Originally created by Mel Brooks and Buck Henry, Get Smart debuted in 1965 as a satirical take on the spy craze of the Cold War era, blending slapstick humor with witty wordplay. The series introduced audiences to the hapless but endearing Agent 86, whose catchphrase "Would you believe..." became a cultural touchstone. Over the decades, the franchise has seen a 2008 film starring Steve Carell and Anne Hathaway, as well numerous television revivals, underscoring its lasting appeal.
John Mulaney, a four‑time Emmy‑winning writer for "Saturday Night Live" and creator of the critically acclaimed stand‑up special Kid Gorgeous, has become one of the most recognizable voices in contemporary American comedy. His potential casting signals Warner Bros.' intent to blend the series' classic absurdist tone with a modern comedic sensibility that resonates with younger audiences.
Industry observers note that reviving legacy properties with fresh talent is a prevailing trend in Hollywood, aiming to capitalize on nostalgia while attracting new demographics. Mulaney's involvement could bring a distinctively dry, self‑referential humor to the role, aligning with the original series' parody of espionage tropes.
While the reboot's tone—whether it will lean more toward a family‑friendly adventure or a sharper, adult-oriented satire—remains unclear, the combination of Grahame‑Smith's screenplay experience and Mulaney's comedic pedigree suggests a balance of homage and innovation.
Until Warner Bros. confirms further details, the project's progress will be monitored closely by both fans of the original series and followers of Mulaney's expanding filmography. The entertainment press will likely continue to report on casting developments, production milestones, and potential release strategies as the film moves beyond its nascent stage.
