‘Difficult times,’ ‘screaming matches,’ and ‘abandonment’: David Duchovny and Chris Carter rehash th…

On his Fail Better podcast, David Duchovny recently reunited with The X-Files creator Chris Carter to revisit the highs and lows of working on the iconic sci-fi series that aired from 1993 to 2002, with two feature films (1998, 2008) and a two-season revival (2016, 2018).

Duchovny credited The X-Files with launching his career, calling it “obvious history” that the show made his entire career possible. He opened up about the behind-the-scenes difficulties when he left after Season 7, explaining feelings of both fatigue and a sense of abandonment from his perspective.

Carter acknowledged that by Season 7, the cast and crew were worn out, having moved production from Vancouver to Los Angeles, dealing with over 100 episodes, and navigating complex legal issues. He described the period as a “difficult time” with a temporary estrangement from Duchovny but called it a “forgettable part of the show.”

One memorable moment Duchovny recalled was being involved in a lawsuit with Fox over rerun compensation, which led him to have his trailer swept for bugs due to paranoia about being monitored. Despite tensions, Carter and Duchovny shared a genuine moment of reconciliation in Malibu.

The duo also reminisced about their “screaming matches” during Season 11 filming in Vancouver, highlighting the stress and misunderstandings that come with long-term collaboration. Carter humorously admitted he “had it” with Duchovny after 11 seasons.

Despite challenges, both praised the creative process behind The X-Files. Duchovny admired Carter’s dedication to plot structure and writing discipline, which he credits with influencing his own career choices. Carter shared insights into how the show used a bulletin board and 3×5 index cards for plotting episodes—a method that influenced later successful series like Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul.

Duchovny also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to write and direct episodes of the series, which he said “opened me up into another part of who I am.” He directed three episodes: “The Unnatural,” “Hollywood A.D.,” and “William,” earning respect for wanting to earn his producer credits rather than just be handed them.

Both recalled the positive work environment during the Vancouver years, emphasizing how the shared passion of the crew motivated them daily.

Exciting news from the podcast: Chris Carter revealed he’s been given the green light to create a director’s cut of the 2008 film The X-Files: I Want to Believe. Carter described it as a chance to finally make “the scary movie” he had originally envisioned, bringing to life scenes that never made it to the screen.

David Duchovny has earned four Emmy nominations throughout his career, including two for The X-Files. Chris Carter holds eight Emmy nominations for his work producing, writing, and directing the show.