What began as a book sequel to one of our favorite Disney movies has since evolved into not just another film, but one potentially featuring multiple members of the original cast. Yes, thanks to Sarah Jessica Parker, we now have confirmation that all three Sanderson sisters are very much on board for reprising their roles for Hocus Pocus 2.
The actress discussed the project in a recent interview on SiriusXM's Radio Andy. “I think that it is something Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy and I are all very hospitable to the idea,” Parker told listeners. “I think for a long time, people were talking about it as if people were moving forward with it in a real way but we were unaware of it.” If we think back, we realize of course she’s right—other than the fact that Disney+ announced Jen D’Angleo (Workaholics) would write the script and that Adam Shankman (A Walk to Remember and Hairspray) has agreed to direct, we haven’t heard much about about the project. Until now.
Parker continued, “We’ve agreed publicly to the right people, yes, that would be a very, very fun idea, so we’ll see what the future holds.” Before now it wasn’t entirely clear whether the sequel would continue the story of the wicked Sanderson sisters or their misadventures at the hands of Max and Dani Dennison, the lovely Allison and boy-turned-talking cat Thackery Binx, or feature a new set of characters living in Salem, MA. Now, however, we think it’s fairly safe to say the Sandersons will live to see another glorious morning (and, of course, be made sick by the idea of it).
While many Disney Channel original movies have developed cult followings, none has reached the same level of fandom as Hocus Pocus, which first hit the small screen in 1993. Chalk it up to Midler’s spectacular rendition of “I Put a Spell on You,” Najimy’s ridiculous facial expressions, Parker’s delightfully dimwitted Sarah Sanderson or even Thora Birch’s precocious performance as little Dani—whatever the root, Hocus Pocus achieved that rare, magical mix of comedy and horror, with a very quotable script to boot. And fans are itching to find out what the cast of characters has been up to the past 27 years.
