{
  "id": 18497395,
  "title": "25 Years Later, Buffy's Riskiest Episode Is Still a Brilliant Masterpiece That Changed the Show Forever",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/06/25-years-later-buffys-riskiest-episode-is-still-a-brilliant",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-11-06T12:00:17.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Polygon",
    "slug": "polygon",
    "url": "https://www.polygon.com/buffy-vampire-slayer-once-more-with-feeling-musical-25-years-james-marsters/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "On November 6, 2001, Buffy the Vampire Slayer made history with a musical episode titled \"Once More, With Feeling.\" Created by Joss Whedon, the episode is considered a high point in the series and a fan favorite.\n\nThe episode features a demon's curse that forces everyone in Sunnydale to sing and dance as if in a Broadway play. This unique twist allows the show to advance its overarching plot in multiple ways. One notable aspect is the development of Buffy's (Sarah Michelle Gellar) relationship with Spike (James Marsters), who express their deepest emotions through their singing.\n\nJoss Whedon surprised the cast by delivering the script for the episode via cassette tape, as Whedon is not a vocalist, but his singing performance was not up to par. Initially, the cast was hesitant about performing a musical, with many lacking singing experience. However, they eventually embraced the challenge and worked hard to improve their skills, even seeking personal trainers for vocal and dance coaching.\n\nJames Marsters found it challenging to perform his big song \"Rest in Peace,\" but eventually, he discovered the right approach by experimenting with guitar chords. Marsters praises the song for capturing Spike's emotions effectively through the lyrics, which would have been difficult to convey through conventional dialogue.\n\nDespite the initial apprehension and doubts, the cast pushed through and delivered a remarkable performance. Marsters states that \"Once More, With Feeling\" was a risky decision but ultimately a brilliant masterpiece that changed the show forever. The episode remains a testament to the cast's dedication and willingness to take on a daunting challenge, resulting in a memorable and impactful addition to the series.",
  "summary": "'Once More With Feeling' at 25: How the Buffy musical came to be and why it still holds up, according to Spike actor James Marsters",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}