Robert Patrick’s Nostalgic X-Files Throwback Sparks Hope for Doggett’s Return!

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Generally speaking, many people associate “The X-Files” with the moment they developed a fondness for Gillian Anderson as Agent Scully, David Duchovny as Agent Mulder, or even Mitch Pileggi’s Assistant Director Skinner. Some might argue that The Lone Gunmen deserved more than just one season of a spinoff. However, focusing on the 2025 TV lineup and being a devoted fan of Fox’s classic series myself, I would like to bring attention to Robert Patrick’s character, Special Agent John Doggett, who deserves another chance in the upcoming show “1923”.

Robert Patrick’s Warm Memories Of The X-Files Are Contagious

Would you be interested in a double-dose of nostalgia? Then, I invite you to check out the photos that Mr. Patrick recently shared on his personal Instagram account. From what appears to be a promotional image from Season 9, to candid moments sharing laughter with David Duchovny himself, these snapshots offer a glimpse into another era.

Let’s consider a time when you absolutely had to be glued to the television set, or have the VHS player running, to keep yourself updated:

A post shared by Robert Patrick (@ripfighter)

A photo posted by on

I find it particularly appealing that Robert Patrick, who once terrified me as the T-1000 in Terminator 2: Judgment Day, now confesses John Doggett as his favorite role. This transformation, from a fearsome figure to a beloved character on The X-Files during its final seasons, introduced me to one of today’s impressive actors, who is also starring in Reacher as another captivating hero.

It seems to me that fellow sci-fi enthusiasts would likely concur with my line of reasoning, plus I’d like to bring up an issue from Fox’s brief reboot of The X-Files, and regardless of what comparisons between Robert Patrick’s character and Arnold Schwarzenegger or Michael Ritchson may evoke, I believe there was a chance that went unexploited which could be capitalized on in the future.

I’m Still Bummed Special Agent John Doggett Never Got To Return For The Revival

Assuming the role of the new male lead on “The X-Files” after David Duchovny’s departure wasn’t an easy feat, but he managed it successfully in Season 8. In Season 9, Annabeth Gish joined full-time as Agent Monica Reyes, while Gillian Anderson took a step back from the action, although she remained a regular series character. Duchovny made a comeback in the Season 9 finale for Mulder and Scully’s farewell, setting off into the horizon before “I Want to Believe” was released, leaving Doggett and Reyes to carry on with “The X-Files”.

Indeed, Fox discontinued the series following its ninth season in 2002, but later brought back David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson, and to some extent Mitch Pileggi for the revival that ran from 2016 to 2018. Among the characters that should have been part of this revival, Special Agents Doggett and Reyes stood out. Now you can watch all nine original seasons and the two revival seasons with a Hulu subscription.

As a dedicated fan of “The X-Files,” I was thrilled to see Gillian Anderson rejoin the cast for its comeback on Fox. However, Robert Patrick’s character, the lawman, was noticeably absent. In a 2017 interview with TVLine and the series creator, Chris Carter, the rationale behind this decision was explained. Though I can understand the reasoning and it avoids unnecessary drama, personally, it doesn’t sit well with me.

Initially, I included him in a Season 11 episode, but later discovered he wouldn’t be free for us due to commitments with Scorpion. As a result, I had to remove his character from the episode… His duties on Scorpion come first. However, it doesn’t mean you won’t encounter him this season.

Did you know? Robert Patrick didn’t come back to The X-Files, and what’s more, after Gillian Anderson decided to leave after Season 11, the show itself didn’t return either. Some people thought that her decision made sense following the revival, as it left some fans puzzled.

Explore the mysteries of “The X-Files” and more with the Hulu Bundle! For just $10.99 a month (or $19.99 for an ad-free experience), delve into the complete series, including the revival seasons, but note that the films are not included in this offer. It’s a great way to keep up with these FBI case files! Check out the deal here.

Yet, the main point to consider here is Robert Patrick’s deep affection for this property. Despite Ryan Coogler’s proposed X-Files reboot being underway, I can’t help but yearn for Special Agent Doggett and Monica Reyes to reunite in a Halloween (2018) style revival.

Despite the passing of those two revival seasons, the idea of reuniting the team to uncover “The Truth” continues to captivate me even after all these years. It may seem eccentric, but considering the numerous unexplained cases that Mulder, Scully, and their fellow X-Files associates tackled throughout the show’s run, is it really so far-fetched to wonder if there’s still truth out there waiting to be uncovered?

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2025-03-29 08:39