The Creator of ‘The Burbs’ Shares Insights on Its Connection to the 1989 Movie, Finale Cameo, and Exciting Season 2 Plans
As Keke Palmer and Jack Whitehall settle into their roles in The ‘Burbs, series creator Celeste Hughey expresses hope for a second season, eager to revisit the fictional Hinkley Hills.
“I would love a Season 2, and we really wrote to continue the story,” Hughey stated. “I think you’ll find that there’s a really compelling cliffhanger at the end. People will really attach to these characters and want to come back and hang out with them.”
Now streaming, The ‘Burbs follows new parents Samira (Palmer) and Rob (Whitehall) as they move into Rob’s family’s suburban home. There, Samira develops a bond with her neighbors as they unravel the mystery of a missing girl from the eerie Victorian house across the street.
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Though the series serves as a spiritual sequel to the Joe Dante-directed original film—which featured Tom Hanks, Carrie Fisher, Bruce Dern, and Corey Feldman—it is not a direct continuation of the movie’s storyline.
“Initially, I thought about tying it in by considering whether Carrie Fisher and Tom Hanks’ characters could have kids of the same age in the modern context,” Hughey explained. “Ultimately, I decided it was best to create an entirely new world with new characters while retaining some elements—like the name Hinkley Hills—repurposed for a fresh narrative.”
The series includes a cameo from Wendy Schaal, who portrayed Bonnie Rumsfield in the original film. Hughey emphasized her desire to honor the legacy of the movie, stating, “Having her cameo is amazing. There’s even a nod to Tom Hanks in the first episode, and there’s another surprise cameo in the finale that I won’t spoil.”
Jack Whitehall as Rob and Keke Palmer as Samira in ‘The Burbs‘
Elizabeth Morris/Peacock
Hughey discussed her vision for updating suburban horror in The ‘Burbs for 2026, now available to stream on Peacock.
DEADLINE: I was a huge fan of the original movie. I watched it with my dad all the time when I was a kid. What was your association with the original and what made you want to update it for a new generation?
CELESTE HUGHEY: I hope fans of the movie notice the Easter eggs we included. It came out when I was quite young, so I watched it before I completely understood its commentary and humor. Watching it as an adult revealed a wealth of potential for exploration. Brian Grazer, who produced the original, and Seth MacFarlane wanted to revamp it during COVID, and discussions evolved into the idea of making it a series. I quickly envisioned adapting it, focusing on the outsider’s perspective about finding their place within a neighborhood. I aimed to infuse the original DNA of the film while creating a new story with unique characters. Keke Palmer was an immediate choice for the lead. In 2022, my best friend and I both texted each other suggesting Keke for the role simultaneously. She embodies the charisma we love Tom Hanks for and is perfect for this project.
DEADLINE: I love how the idea of suburbia has changed over the years, especially the notion of moving into a parent’s house due to financial constraints. Can you elaborate on that update?
HUGHEY: Traditionally, suburbs represented the idealized dream of space, safety, and a nice environment for raising children. However, in my experience, many friends in their late 30s have had to relocate closer to family for support or even move back home because they cannot afford housing. This shift highlights the practicality of raising children in a community rather than the city.
Keke Palmer as Samira in ‘The Burbs’
Elizabeth Morris/Peacock
DEADLINE: You mentioned Keke was your first choice. How was the casting process for her and Jack Whitehall?
HUGHEY: Keke’s involvement was almost instinctive. During discussions with the studio, there was immediate support for my vision to cast her. We have a mutual friend; I saw her at a birthday party, and I had this thought that in a year, she’d read a script I had not yet written. Fast forward, a year later, I shared the script with her, and she immediately grasped the character. She was excited about portraying a new mom, especially with her own 2-year-old son, Leo. When casting Rob, I initially knew little about Jack, but during the chemistry read, their natural rapport sold us. Their dynamic was so infectious that we adjusted the story to reflect their fresh chemistry as a newly established couple. Our casting process also brought in several talented comedic character actors who enhance the ensemble’s humor and pathos.
Paula Pell as Dana, Keke Palmer as Samira, Julia Duffy as Lynn and Mark Proksch as Tod in ‘The Burbs’
Elizabeth Morris/Peacock
DEADLINE: Wendy Schaal’s cameo was a fantastic nod to the original film.
HUGHEY: Absolutely, we aimed to celebrate that legacy. The inclusion of her cameo was important, as was incorporating a nod to H. Horace Hinckley, the founder of Hinkley Hills, in the first episode, along with another exciting cameo in the finale that I won’t reveal.
DEADLINE: Does the show connect to the original at all? Could Judy [Schaal] be presented as Bonnie’s twin sister?
HUGHEY: Initially, I did explore connections, but ultimately chose to create a different world and new characters. While Hinkley Hills retains its core essence, the physical structures differ. We considered the librarian as Bonnie Rumsfield all grown up, but opted for a distinct character instead.
DEADLINE: The series hints that Rob and Naveen might know more about the mystery across the street. Can you elaborate?
HUGHEY: Crafting this narrative was enjoyable, with each character possessing their own secrets. At any given point, viewers will find themselves wondering about each character’s involvement. While the trope of “the husband did it” is popular, the unfolding story will lead to surprising revelations.
Julia Duffy as Lynn, Mark Proksch as Tod, Paula Pell as Dana, Jack Whitehall as Rob and Keke Palmer as Samira in ‘The Burbs’
Elizabeth Morris/Peacock
DEADLINE: Justin Kirk plays the creepy neighbor, reminiscent of the original film’s family dynamic. Can you discuss that casting choice?
HUGHEY: I’ve known Justin for 14 years, and I always envisioned him as Gary. I told myself that in a year, he’d receive the script. Justin possesses a suave yet unsettling charm, akin to the doctor from the original movie. Upon reading the script, he emphasized his commitment to the story beyond our friendship, expressing appreciation for the narrative. He adds gravitas to the character, and everyone involved in the production was thrilled to work with him.
DEADLINE: Is a second season possible?
HUGHEY: I would love a Season 2, and we designed the ending to continue the narrative. The series concludes with a compelling cliffhanger that I believe will keep audiences invested in these characters. With many more mysteries to explore, there’s no shortage of material to draw from for future seasons. Everyone has an interesting neighbor story, and I often ask people about their experiences. Collectively, there’s much more to tell, and I sincerely hope Peacock supports a second season.
