Bryan Fuller Urgently Wants Zendaya as Clarice in Hannibal Revival
BREAKING: Bryan Fuller has revealed his ambitious plans for a revival of NBC’s acclaimed series, Hannibal, and it involves star power that could reshape the franchise. In a stunning revelation during a recent interview at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), Fuller expressed his desire for Zendaya to take on the iconic role of Clarice Starling in a limited series adaptation of The Silence of the Lambs, alongside Mads Mikkelsen reprising his role as Hannibal Lecter.
Fuller stated, “My dream project is to do a limited series of Silence of the Lambs with Mads and Zendaya as Clarice Starling. If I could put anything out into the universe, I would put that into the universe.” This urgent announcement has sparked immediate interest among fans, eager for a fresh take on these beloved characters.
The original Hannibal series, which aired from 2013 to 2015, is based on the novels by Thomas Harris and introduced two of modern literature’s most recognized figures: Dr. Hannibal Lecter and Clarice Starling. Notably, Clarice never appeared in Fuller’s original series, making this potential revival even more significant.
Clarice Starling has been portrayed on screen by celebrated actresses including Jodie Foster, whose performance in the 1991 adaptation earned her an Academy Award, and Julianne Moore in Hannibal (2001). The most recent portrayal was by Rebecca Breeds in the CBS series Clarice (2021). However, fans are now buzzing at the prospect of a new interpretation from Zendaya, who is set to captivate audiences with her dynamic acting skills.
Mads Mikkelsen’s portrayal of Hannibal became a fan favorite, distinct from Anthony Hopkins’s Oscar-winning performance in the original 1991 film, which swept the Academy Awards, claiming accolades for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Adapted Screenplay.
Fuller’s vision not only aims to revive the franchise but also to bring back the intense psychological drama that captivated audiences. With Zendaya’s rising star power, the project could attract a new generation of viewers while retaining the franchise’s loyal fans.
As for Zendaya, her schedule for 2026 is packed, featuring roles in Euphoria season three, Dune: Part Three, and Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey. The potential collaboration with Fuller and Mikkelsen could be a game-changer in her career.
With Fuller’s recent debut of his feature film, Dust Bunny, at TIFF, the anticipation for a potential Hannibal revival is at an all-time high. Fans and industry insiders alike are watching closely for developments on this highly anticipated project.
Stay tuned as the situation develops, and the possibility of this dream casting becomes a reality. The revival of Hannibal with Zendaya as Clarice could redefine the landscape of psychological thrillers on television and reignite interest in a franchise that has left an indelible mark on horror and suspense.
