The first main cast of Netflix’s upcoming live-action Scooby-Doo series has been unmasked: it’s none other than McKenna Grace, who will play Daphne Blake in the eight-episode origin story. The casting, confirmed this week, reunites Grace with a character she has voiced before; in 2020, she played young Daphne in the animated film “Scoob!”
The former child actress broke the news on her Instagram on February 17, posting a personal celebration alongside coverage of her casting and writing, “Oh my jeepers😭💜 I can’t believe life is real I could cry all over again just looking at this announcement. So thankful, SO excited.” In the same post, she also included a childhood pic of herself dressed in Daphne’s iconic purple dress, showcasing her lifelong connection with the character.
The live-action series is being developed by Midnight Radio, Berlanti Productions and Warner Bros. Television for Netflix, with Josh Appelbaum and Scott Rosenberg serving as showrunners and executive producers. The project — ordered in March 2025 — reimagines how Mystery Inc. first came together, following Daphne, Shaggy, Velma and Fred during their final summer at camp as they tackle a haunting mystery that leads to lifelong friendships and the formation of the iconic gang.
Grace’s casting has drawn praise from Scooby-Doo alumni, including former live-action Daphne Sarah Michelle Gellar, who wrote on her Instagram story, “You are going to be perfect!!” in response to the news.
Grace brings a robust résumé to the role — her credits include The Haunting of Hill House, Ghostbusters: Afterlife, Five Nights at Freddy’s 2, Regretting You and upcoming films Scream 7 and The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping.
Filming is expected to begin in late April 2026, with aims for a 2027 release.