Whedon not involved in 'Buffy' re-do

LOS ANGELES, May 26 (UPI) -- The team that holds the rights to "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" said it hasn't reached out to Joss Whedon

as it prepares to make a new "Buffy" movie.

Whedon wrote the 1992 film that started the iconic supernatural franchise. He also created and produced the critically acclaimed TV series that ran for seven seasons afterward, writing and directing many of the show's episodes.

The Hollywood Reporter said Roy Lee and Doug Davison of Vertigo Entertainment are working with the original movie's director, Fran Rubel Kuzui, and her husband, Kaz Kuzui, on a remake, which doesn't include Whedon.

Kuzui and her Kuzui Enterprises have always owned the rights to "Buffy." Kuzui also served as executive producer on the TV show, which wrapped in 2003, and its spin-off "Angel," which ended its five-season run in 2004.

Both the "Buffy" and "Angel" sagas have since continued via popular comic books that Whedon oversees.

The Hollywood Reporter said the upcoming film is a new adventure and would have no connection to the TV series.

The movie also is not expected to include appearances by popular supporting characters from the show such as Angel, Willow, Xander or Spike, the entertainment industry trade newspaper said.