New slayer alert: Ryan Kiera Armstrong joins the 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' reboot

Ryan Kiera Armstrong has been cast as the lead character in the highly anticipated "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" reboot.

Starring opposite the beloved Sarah Michelle Gellar, who will reprise her iconic role as Buffy Summers and serve as an executive producer, Armstrong is set to forge a new chapter in the Buffyverse.

The new series, which has received a pilot order from Hulu, promises to delve deeper into the world established by the original series, bringing fresh perspectives and stories to the forefront.

While specific plot details remain under wraps, Armstrong’s character is described by casting materials as an introverted high-school student.

Set to be directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Chloé Zhao, the pilot is penned by the dynamic sibling duo, Nora and Lilla Zuckerman. 

Gellar expressed her admiration, stating: "From the moment I saw Ryan’s audition, I knew there was only one girl that I wanted by my side. To have that kind of emotional intelligence and talent at such a young age is truly a gift. The bonus is that her smile lights up even the darkest room."

The heartfelt moment was captured on video when Gellar revealed the news to Armstrong, a clip which has already garnered much attention and excitement on social media.

Armstrong voiced her gratitude, saying: “I’m so honored, thank you for trusting me,” as she celebrated the news with her father, Canadian actor-producer Dean Armstrong. 

The pilot will be executive produced by Gellar and the Zuckermans, alongside several others including Dolly Parton’s Sandollar, which famously was involved in the production of the original series.

Armstrong took to Instagram to write: "I’m so beyond thankful and excited to share that I am going to be apart of the BTVS universe!!! I am so excited for this journey with you @sarahmgellar I am in awe of you. Thank you so much @joannecolonna_official and @abbybluestone for believing in me. 

"Would never ever be here without you guys. Thank you, Chloe Zhao, for trusting me. I'm such a fan. I’m still in so much shock and disbelief. @noralzee and @lillazuck I’m so so excited to work with you both.

"Finally, thank you to my amazing parents that have allowed me to do my dream, love uuuu. I WONT LET YOU GUYS DOWN!! 💘💘."

The 15-year-old Canadian has quickly carved a niche for herself in the entertainment industry since her breakout role in "The Art of Racing in the Rain".

She has made significant strides in both film and television, having appeared in notable projects like "IT: Part Two", "The Tomorrow War" and "Black Widow".

Her recent work includes a starring role alongside Jude Law in Disney+’s "Star Wars: Skeleton Crew".

Fans of the series have high hopes that Armstrong will breathe new life into the iconic role while honouring the legacy that Gellar established.

@slayerfestx98 commented: "Can’t wait to see you save the world - welcome to the Buffy fandom fam💪✨💜."

@nathanwyburnart said: "Welcome to the crazy world that shaped my life! The Buffyverse is excited, and I’m so thrilled for you!!! ❤️🙌🔥 so much love for this @sarahmgellar." 

@its_ats wrote: "Girl, if a person who gave light to so many people welcomes you ... That means you're full of light too. Welcome to the universe of one of my favourite shows ❤️ I'm sure I will be happy with you on my screen."