Babylon 5 Revival Hurdles Explained by Creator

Following the announcement of Netflix's proposed acquisition of Warner Bros., fans of the classic sci-fi series Babylon 5 have expressed renewed hope for a revival. However, series creator J. Michael Straczynski has publicly addressed the situation, cautioning that a return to the universe is far from guaranteed. Straczynski noted that while the acquisition could theoretically open doors, there are currently no active discussions or developments regarding a new series. He emphasized that the studio has not contacted him about any potential projects.

Straczynski also highlighted the immense competition within the Warner Bros. library, which includes major sci-fi properties like Blade Runner and Firefly. Furthermore, he revealed that a previously developed reboot for The CW is no longer moving forward in its original form due to network and industry challenges. Ultimately, while Straczynski remains optimistic about the franchise's future, he advises fans that any potential revival would require a lengthy process of legal and financial review following the acquisition's completion.

The proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. by Netflix has sparked speculation regarding the future of dormant intellectual properties. Babylon 5, which has remained largely inactive since its conclusion in 1998, is a primary target of fan interest. Despite this speculation, J. Michael Straczynski has clarified the current status of the franchise.

Straczynski stated that there is nothing currently in development regarding a continuation of the series. He confirmed that the studio is contractually obligated to notify him if any proposal regarding Babylon 5 is put forward, but noted that "No such call has come."

Even if the acquisition is finalized, Straczynski outlined a complex business process that must occur before any greenlighting. He explained that executives must review video sales, ratings, merchandise prospects, and profit reports. "It's not 'wouldn't it be cool if'... it's 'how do we make money and control the property?'" Straczynski tweeted. He summarized the situation by stating that more Babylon 5 is "a possibility, but that's all until the dust settles."

Should Netflix proceed with the acquisition, Babylon 5 would face significant competition for resources and development slots. J. Michael Straczynski pointed out that the Warner Bros. library is extensive and contains many established sci-fi franchises.

Straczynski listed several major properties that Netflix would also acquire, creating a crowded field for any potential sci-fi development slate. These include:

• V
• Flash Gordon
• 2001: A Space Odyssey
• Firefly
• Blade Runner
• Gravity
• Forbidden Planet
• Mad Max
• The DC catalog

Straczynski noted that while it is always good to have space and sci-fi shows, the sheer volume of existing intellectual property means that decisions will be based on strict financial metrics rather than fan enthusiasm alone.

Prior to the current acquisition news, there were reports of a Babylon 5 reboot in development for The CW. J. Michael Straczynski confirmed that this specific project is no longer moving forward in the form that was previously described.

Straczynski cited three main reasons for the project's failure to launch. First, it is rare for a network to pick up a show from another network unless it is a major hit or has significant talent attached; the project was just a script. Second, the industry was beginning to experience a slowdown in buying. Third, the project's origin at The CW was viewed as a liability by streamers, who felt a show intended for broadcast television would not work for their platforms.

Despite the failure of this specific iteration, Straczynski insisted that a reboot with another script is "absolutely" possible. He believes the Babylon 5 universe will continue in one fashion or another, likely sooner rather than later, and promised to break the news to fans honestly should it happen.