McKenna Grace Officially Cast as Daphne Blake in Netflix's Live-Action Scooby-Doo Series
In a major casting announcement, actor McKenna Grace has officially secured the role of Daphne Blake in Netflix's upcoming live-action adaptation of the beloved children's cartoon, 'Scooby-Doo'. This marks a significant step for the streaming giant's reimagining of the classic franchise.
From Voice to Live-Action: Grace's Journey as Daphne
Grace, who previously voiced a young Daphne in the 2020 animated film 'Scoob!', will now portray the character in an eight-episode series. Netflix picked up the project in March 2025, signaling a fresh take on the iconic mystery-solving gang. The transition from voice work to live-action performance highlights Grace's growing prominence in the entertainment industry.
Reacting to the casting news, Grace expressed overwhelming excitement in a social media post, writing, "Oh my jeeper... I can’t believe life is real I could cry all over again just looking at this announcement. So thankful, SO excited." Her heartfelt response quickly garnered attention from fans and colleagues alike.
Fan Reactions and Manifestation Theories
The announcement sparked a wave of reactions, including from Grace's 'Five Nights At Freddy's 2' co-star August Maturo, who commented, "your ability to manifest needs to be studied." This remark led fans to revisit a 2024 Halloween post where Grace dressed up as Daphne, fueling speculation about her long-term connection to the role. Many fans questioned whether she had prior knowledge of the casting, adding a layer of intrigue to the story.
Plot Details: A Modern Reimagining of Mystery Inc.
According to reports, the Netflix series is described as a modern reimagining of the beloved cartoon franchise, focusing on how the members of Mystery Inc. first met. The official logline reveals that the story unfolds during the gang's final summer at camp.
The description reads: "During their final summer at camp, old friends Shaggy and Daphne (Grace) get embroiled in a haunting mystery surrounding a lonely lost Great Dane puppy that may have been a witness to a supernatural murder. Together with the pragmatic and scientific townie, Velma, and the strange, but ever so handsome new kid, Freddy, they set out to solve the case that is pulling each of them into a creepy nightmare that threatens to expose all of their secrets."
McKenna Grace's Career Highlights and Previous Roles
Grace's casting follows a notable career trajectory. She was previously scheduled to reprise her role as Daphne in the 'Scoob! Holiday Haunt', but the film was ultimately shelved. Her performance in 'The Handmaid's Tale' earned her an Emmy nomination for outstanding guest actress in a drama series in 2021, showcasing her dramatic range.
Her filmography includes a variety of television series such as 'The Young and the Restless', 'The Haunting of Hill House', and 'Young Sheldon'. On the film front, she has credits in projects like 'Gifted', 'Ghostbusters: Afterlife', 'Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire', and 'Five Nights at Freddy's 2'. This diverse background positions her well for the lead role in the Scooby-Doo series.
The Netflix adaptation promises to bring a fresh perspective to the classic characters, with Grace's involvement adding a layer of authenticity and excitement for fans. As production details emerge, anticipation continues to build for this modern take on a timeless franchise.
