X-Files Star David Duchovny Tackles Government Secrets in New History Channel Series

The truth is out there, and David Duchovny is determined to find it.

The actor, best known for his role as FBI Agent Mulder in "The X-Files," is back in the spotlight, this time as the host and producer of the History Channel’s new series, "Secrets Declassified with David Duchovny." This 10-part series delves into the government’s most jaw-dropping declassified activities, blending intrigue, skepticism, and a dash of humor.

"Secrets and the Skies," the debut episode airing Friday, kicks off with a chilling tale: a plane crash in North Carolina that nearly pushed the world to the brink of nuclear catastrophe. And, as if any deep-dive into government secrets would be complete without it, there's also the ever-enigmatic Area 51, the legendary military base steeped in UFO lore.

Duchovny promises a balanced approach, aiming to dispel myths while highlighting expert insights. "These are true stories," he emphasized, "coming straight from declassified government files. That’s way better than it coming from me." Point taken, Mulder.

But the actor isn’t diving headlong into conspiracy rabbit holes. Despite his role on "The X-Files," Duchovny leans toward skepticism. When mysterious drones were spotted over New Jersey and the eastern U.S. in late 2024, he brushed aside wild theories, saying, "I think they were drones." Occam’s razor, anyone?

Still, the series isn’t all laughs. Duchovny candidly acknowledges the darker side of government actions. "Some of these stories are absolutely ridiculous," he said, "but others have caused real harm. That’s not so funny." The show aims to navigate this delicate balance, offering viewers both the bizarre and the sobering.

The JFK assassination files also make an appearance, with Duchovny firmly stating his belief that there’s no grand conspiracy. "There are bad actors, sure, but no overarching plot," he said. His pragmatic take might not satisfy die-hard conspiracy theorists, but Duchovny seems content to let the evidence—and the series—speak for itself.

As for extraterrestrials? Duchovny isn’t losing sleep over alien invasions, even if he does admit the vastness of the universe leaves room for possibilities. "There’s no grand conspiracy," he reiterated. "These are just small groups of flawed humans trying some weird stuff to achieve their goals." Think less "shadowy cabal" and more "government improv gone wrong."

Ultimately, Duchovny was drawn to "Secrets Declassified" for its focus on truth. "Truth is stranger than fiction," he noted, "and it’s sometimes even stranger than conspiracy theories." That’s a fitting mantra for both Mulder and Duchovny in this new chapter of his career.

As for his own secrets? Duchovny, unsurprisingly, isn’t spilling. "All those secrets are classified until after my death," he joked. "Maybe 60 years after." Mulder would approve.