Deadline reports that Fox is trying to put all the pieces in place for a revival of The X-Files, the long-running sci-fi series (and occasional rom-com) following the adventures of Fox Mulder and Dr. Dana Scully. The biggest challenge, apparently, is not interest from all the key parties — Mulder's David Duchovny, Scully's Gillian Anderson, and series creator Chris Carter would participate — but rather scheduling problems: everyone is wrapped up in other projects, and Duchovny and Anderson are both presently starring in shows on other networks.

The problem is getting everyone's time

The original series ran for nine seasons (several without Duchovny's participation) and led to two films, the most recent of which was released in 2008. It's unclear exactly what form a new X-Files could take, but Fox may simply be riding high off the success of 24's recent return.

For fans of the show, I think we can all agree that the most recent movie, I Want to Believe, was not the best way to tie a bow on the franchise. Another season or two with Carter's guiding hand — hopefully with The Lone Gunmen* — could help atone for that film's misses.

*Vox Media support manager Chao Li reminds me that The Lone Gunmen died, but they're The Lone Gunmen — anything is possible.