The beloved sci-fi series Quantum Leap is in the early process of making a return to NBC. Currently, the series is in the pilot stage. Reportedly set as a sequel, this new season will take place 30 years after the events of the original series finale when the lead character, Sam Becket, disappeared.
Originally airing from 1989-1993, Quantum Leap starred Scott Bakula as Dr. Sam Beckett, a physicist who, after experimenting with time travel, involuntarily leaps into the bodies of different people and must solve their problems before he can leave. The late Dean Stockwell played Sam's charming but humorous companion, Admiral Al Calavicci, who appeared to Sam only as a hologram and worked alongside him through his adventures.
Plans for a Quantum Leap reboot have been in talks for some time now and on the late Bob Saget's podcast last year, Bakula mentioned that while there were serious conversations about the potential of a reboot, “the rights were a mess for years.” However, it now seems that things are finally on track. The reboot will take the audience on a twisting ride of action and suspense as a team begins the search for Sam Beckett, years after he has vanished. While casting has yet to be confirmed, it has been said that Bakula will not be returning as a feature for this sequel, although there have been talks for some type of involvement from him.
However, the previous director, Don Bellisario, has already joined the project, along with the original producer, Deborah Pratt, who also provided the calming voice of Al's communicator, Ziggy. The show runners have been announced as Steven Lilien and Bryan Wynbrandt, who are both recognized for their work on Gotham and the short-lived show, Alcatraz. Clearly, with an ensemble like this, fans can expect an exciting and modernized version of the cherished '90s show that also stays true to its predecessor.
The ambiguous ending of Quantum Leap's series finale in 1993 has caused plenty of questions over the years and after decades of waiting, this sequel will at long last start to unlock some of the show's biggest mysteries. While the absence of Bakula and Stockwell may give a new atmosphere to the upcoming season, there is no doubt that the creators will work hard to provide their devoted audience with the drama, romance, and social commentary that was adored so much in the original series.
While some fans of Quantum Leap may be hesitant about a sequel that is so different from the original show, many would be excited to be pulled back into the adventures of a series that spoke boldly on suppressed societal issues while also providing entertainment that kept them hooked every week. Hopefully, this new reboot lives up to the legacy Quantum Leap created and produces an even more catchy theme song.
Source: CNet