Comedian John Mulaney is reportedly in negotiations to star as the iconic Agent 86 in a new movie reboot of the classic spy comedy series, Get Smart. The project, currently in its nascent stages at Warner Bros., aims to bring the beloved franchise back to the big screen. Mulaney, known for his sharp wit and distinctive comedic voice, is slated to embody the role of Maxwell Smart, the well-intentioned but often comically inept secret agent.
The Legacy of Get Smart
The original Get Smart television series, co-created by Mel Brooks and Buck Henry, first premiered in 1965. It captivated audiences for five seasons, airing 138 episodes until 1970. The show was a satirical take on the spy genre, lampooning the tropes of popular espionage dramas of the era. Don Adams famously portrayed Maxwell Smart, Agent 86, alongside Barbara Feldon as the capable Agent 99 and Edward Platt as the exasperated Chief of the CONTROL agency. The series’ blend of slapstick humor, witty dialogue, and clever parodies made it a cultural phenomenon and a benchmark for comedy television.
Get Smart has seen previous adaptations. A feature film was released in 2008, directed by Peter Segal, with Steve Carell taking on the lead role of Maxwell Smart. That ensemble cast also featured Anne Hathaway as Agent 99, Dwayne Johnson, Alan Arkin, and Terence Stamp, offering a modern interpretation of the classic characters.
John Mulaney’s Role in the Reboot
For the upcoming reboot, John Mulaney is being eyed to bring his unique comedic sensibilities to the character of Agent 86. Mulaney, who recently hosted Netflix’s Everybody’s Live with John Mulaney in 2025, has a prolific career in comedy, including stand-up specials and writing for television. His upcoming projects include a role as Electronic Arts founder Trip Hawkins in David O. Russell’s sports biopic, Madden.
The screenplay for the new Get Smart film is being penned by Seth Grahame-Smith, co-writer of Now You See Me: Now You Don’t. The production is being overseen by producers Andrew Lazar and Chuck Roven, who are tasked with reviving the franchise for a new generation.
Mulaney’s Personal Journey and Comedy
John Mulaney’s career has been marked by significant personal milestones that have also informed his comedic material. In his Netflix special, John Mulaney: Baby J, he candidly discussed his past struggles with addiction and his subsequent recovery. He humorously recounted a “star-studded intervention” that he described as a flattering, albeit unusual, gathering of fellow comedians.
Mulaney quipped about the experience, noting the impressive lineup of his peers: “It was, like, a good group. As mad as I was when I walked in there, I was like, this is a good line-up, this is really flattering in its own way. It was like a We Are the World of alternative comedians over the age of 40. All comedians. Yet no one said a funny thing the entire night.” This blend of personal vulnerability and sharp observational humor has become a hallmark of his stand-up and television appearances.
The Future of Get Smart
The announcement of a Get Smart reboot, with John Mulaney potentially at the helm, signals a renewed interest in the classic spy spoof. While the project is in its early stages, the involvement of established comedic talent and experienced producers suggests a commitment to crafting a faithful yet fresh adaptation. Fans of the original series and Mulaney’s work will be eagerly awaiting further details on this promising revival.
The original series’ enduring appeal lay in its clever satire of the Cold War-era spy craze, offering a lighthearted counterpoint to the more serious espionage thrillers of the time. Agent 86, with his signature catchphrases like “Missed it by that much!” and his reliance on absurd gadgets, became an instantly recognizable comedic figure. The reboot will face the challenge of capturing that same spirit of playful satire while resonating with contemporary audiences.
The casting of Mulaney, a comedian celebrated for his sophisticated writing and relatable storytelling, suggests an approach that could lean into the character’s inherent awkwardness and the absurdity of the spy world. His background as a writer for Saturday Night Live also indicates a strong understanding of sketch comedy and character development, which are crucial elements for a successful Get Smart adaptation.
As the project moves forward, details regarding the broader cast, directorial choices, and the specific narrative direction will be closely watched. The success of this reboot will likely depend on its ability to balance nostalgia for the original with fresh comedic perspectives and a compelling storyline that honors the legacy of Mel Brooks and Buck Henry’s creation.
