Kumail Nanjiani is stepping into the world of mad science and monster mayhem with his latest role in FX’s upcoming comedy pilot Very Young Frankenstein. Inspired by Mel Brooks’ 1974 cult classic Young Frankenstein, the new series reimagines the iconic parody for a modern audience—and Nanjiani’s casting adds a sharp comedic edge to an already stacked ensemble.
While exact plot and character details remain under wraps, Very Young Frankenstein is described as a fresh take on the original film’s premise, which followed Dr. Frederick Frankenstein as he inherited his infamous grandfather’s Transylvanian estate and attempted to reanimate the dead. The pilot draws heavily from the original’s satirical tone, blending gothic horror tropes with absurdist humor.
Nanjiani joins a cast that includes:
- Zach Galifianakis (rumored to play Dr. Frankenstein)
- Cary Elwes (reportedly cast as the President of the United States)
- Dolly Wells
- Spencer House
- Nikki Crawford
The pilot is written by Stefani Robinson (What We Do in the Shadows), who also serves as showrunner and executive producer. Taika Waititi is set to direct, bringing his signature irreverent style to the project. Mel Brooks himself returns as executive producer, alongside Kevin Salter and Michael Gruskoff, who produced the original Young Frankenstein. The series is being developed by 20th Television and, if picked up, will stream on Hulu.
Kumail Nanjiani has built a reputation for balancing sharp wit with emotional depth, from his breakout role in Silicon Valley to his Oscar-nominated screenplay for The Big Sick. He’s recently appeared in Only Murders in the Building and is set to star in The Wrong Girls and The Breadwinner. His addition to Very Young Frankenstein signals a continuation of his genre-hopping career, now venturing into classic horror-comedy territory.
With a dream team of creatives and a cast full of comedic heavyweights, Very Young Frankenstein is shaping up to be a hilarious resurrection of one of cinema’s most beloved parodies. Stay tuned—this monster might just come to life.
