The X Files set for 'limited run' of comeback episodes with Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny

Fox bosses are reportedly in discussions for 10 new episodes of the sci-fi series

Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny may reunite for another series of The X Files (Getty Images)

The X Files’ big television comeback is moving ever closer with new reports suggesting a limited run of episodes is on the cards.

FBI Special Agents Mulder and Scully, played by David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson, are rumoured to be returning for a “short stack” of shows that will resolve plotlines from the cult Nineties series and spin-off movies.

With both lead actors having busy schedules, fewer than 10 episodes are believed to have been ordered so far, according to TVWise.

Update: New season now confirmed!

Fox bosses hinted that The X Files could get a revival earlier this year, sparking great excitement among sci-fi fans hoping for more UFO mysteries.

TV executives Dana Walden and Gary Newman have been in talks with The X Files creator Chris Carter since, with all involved said to be “hopeful” about plans for a comeback.

Duchovny said recently he would be “more than happy” to reprise the role of Mulder, but not for a full 20-episode season, while Anderson admitted to being “f**king overjoyed” at the idea.

The X Files, which became the longest-running sci-fi series in the US, ended in May 2002. It spawned two films, Resist or Serve in 2004 and I Want To Believe in 2008.