Buffy the Vampire Slayer fans lose it as Sarah Michelle Gellar confirms major change in upcoming reboot

Sarah Michelle Gellar has given Buffy the Vampire Slayer fans a huge update on the well-loved series' reboot.

Earlier this year, it was reported that Gellar was in talks to reprise her role of Buffy Summers in the 90s cult classic TV show, which drew to a close in May 2003.

It's since been confirmed that Hulu is developing a reboot of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, which Gellar is indeed attached to.

But this time round Buffy will act as a mentor instead of the lead slayer, meaning producers were on the lookout for their new lead.

It's now been confirmed who will be cast as the front-woman of the reboot, and it's sent fans into a frenzy.

Taking to Instagram yesterday (May 15), Gellar — who has been happily married to fellow actor Freddie Prinze Jr. for 23 years — shared a video of a conversation she had with an actress called Ryan Kiera Armstrong.

While only 15 years old, Armstrong has already worked with some of the biggest names in the film industry including Zac Efron, Chris Pratt, Nicolas Cage, and Jude Law in projects such as Firestarter and Star Wars: Skeleton Crew.

In the video call between Armstrong and Gellar, the Buffy alum asks the up-and-coming actress: "How do you feel about helping me save the world? Do you want to be my chosen one?"

Armstrong then becomes overcome with emotion as she graciously accepts Gellar's offer.

"From the second we all saw your tape, there was nobody else in our eyes that could do it and that [we] wanted to do it with," she went on to tell Armstrong.

"I'm so excited to stand by your side and have you be my partner on this journey."

Gellar captioned the sweet video shared to social media: "I want to introduce you to @ryankarmstrong From the moment I saw Ryan’s audition, I knew there was only one girl that I wanted by my side.

"To have that kind of emotional intelligence , and talent, at such a young age is truly a gift. The bonus is that her smile lights up even the darkest room. Welcome to #NewSunnydale."

Buffy fans have since expressed their excitement at the huge news. One person replied to Gellar's post: "Crying! this is so exciting."

"Omggggg this is so real now and i'm so so excited," echoed another.

A third said: "This is heartwarming, Sarah you're so lovely and supportive. You made her and all of our days!"

Others were quick to congratulate Armstrong on her exciting new role.

It isn't thought that the Buffy reboot has started production yet.