The X-Files: Walter Skinner will return in rebooted series, actor Mitch Pileggi confirms

Skinner is expected to be back on our screens later this year

The X-Files Walter Skinner (Rex Features)

The X-Files' grumpiest FBI assistant director is back.

Walter Skinner will be returning in the upcoming rebooted series, it has been confirmed.

Actor Mitch Pileggi tweeted the news to say he was thrilled to be returning to the drama.

David Duchovny hinted at Pileggi’s return last month on the Late Show with David Letterman.

Skinner became a fan favourite after changing from a grumpy, unlikeable boss who supervised Mulder and Scully, to become a close friend of the two special agents over the show’s nine series.

He was last seen giving a brief appearance in the X Files feature film I Want to Believe in 2008.

The rebooted series was commissioned in March after FOX ordered a six-episode ‘event series’ that will see Mulder and Scully investigate new supernatural mysteries.

The rebooted show is expected to debut later this year on FOX and will be helmed by original X-Files writer Chris Carter.

The original X-Files series, which began in 1993, won 16 Emmys and five Golden Globe Award.