diff --git a/zellij-utils/src/input/options.rs b/zellij-utils/src/input/options.rs
index 64256976..04bca612 100644
--- a/zellij-utils/src/input/options.rs
+++ b/zellij-utils/src/input/options.rs
@@ -11,6 +11,7 @@ pub struct Options {
     /// Allow plugins to use a more simplified layout
     /// that is compatible with more fonts
     #[structopt(long)]
+    #[serde(default)]
     pub simplified_ui: bool,
     /// Set the default theme
     #[structopt(long)]