Modesto’s James Marsters back as Spike in new take on ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’

Modesto native James Marsters has returned to his role as Spike in a new audio spin on the iconic “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” TV show.

“Slayers: A Buffyverse Story” is available as an Audible series.

Marsters, a Davis High School graduate, spoke in a Collider story about his return as Spike.

“It was easy, as it should be,” Marsters said. “Like they say in acting, ‘If it’s working, it’s easy.’ And if it’s not working, it’s either because you don’t really understand the writing, or, if the writing, frankly is not that good, then it’s really hard.”

The new audio series was co-written by “Buffy” actress Amber Benson and Christopher Golden. Golden has been writing “Buffy” comic books and novels, according to the Collider story.

Set 20 years after the series finale, the Audible version also reunites original cast members Charisma Carpenter, Anthony Head, Juliet Landau, Emma Caulfield Ford, Benson, James Charles Leary and Danny Strong, according to an Entertainment Weekly story.

“The series sets the stage for a multiverse adventure in which Spike ... and his old demon pal Clem (James C. Leary) have been keeping an eye on the underbelly of Los Angeles,” the Collider story said. “When their paths cross with a brand-new slayer (Laya DeLeon Hayes), Spike has no choice but to take her under his wing.”

Marsters, 61, played Spike in both the original “Buffy” series, from 1997 to 2003, and in its spinoff series, “Angel,” from 1999-2004.

“I’m ecstatic to be back with my dear friends for this next chapter in the Buffyverse, as we take listeners on a familiar but unexpected journey chock full of horror, passion and mischief,” Marsters said in the Entertainment Weekly story. “I’m excited for old and new fans to experience this beloved world of vampire slaying like never before, brought to life through immersive audio storytelling.”