Fans hoping to see the original teenage heroes return to Salem may need to temper their expectations. A recent convention appearance by the core cast of the 1993 film has delivered a sobering update on the long-rumored third installment, revealing that Disney's new leadership hasn't made contact about bringing them back.
At MegaCon Orlando, actors Omri Katz (Max), Vinessa Shaw (Allison), Jason Marsden (voice of Binx), and Thora Birch (Dani) participated in a panel where the inevitable topic of a third film arose. While a script has been reported as ready and the project was officially greenlit years ago, the actors shared they are completely in the dark about any current developments. "As far as I know, there is a development deal, and that's all I think we know," Katz stated, with Marsden bluntly adding, "No one has contacted us."
The lack of communication comes during a period of significant transition at Disney. The studio confirmed 'Hocus Pocus 3' was in active development under former Walt Disney Pictures president Sean Bailey and CEO Bob Iger. Both executives have since departed, with Josh D'Amaro now leading the company and David Greenbaum overseeing the film division. This leadership shuffle appears to have left the magical sequel in a state of limbo.
"It was announced that it was greenlit. We have not been contacted, and then you all know this new CEO with Disney, which means things are going to change even more," Marsden explained to the audience. "We don't know the life of this. If they do it, and they invite us, absolutely. I think we'd all like to do it again, totally." All four actors have expressed strong interest in reprising their roles, which they did not play in the 2022 sequel 'Hocus Pocus 2.'
What Does the Leadership Change Mean for the Sequel?
The core issue seems to be timing and corporate strategy. The sequel was announced on the heels of the successful 'Hocus Pocus 2,' which introduced a new generation of characters while bringing back the iconic Sanderson Sisters—Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy. That film ended with a tease suggesting more story was possible, but the path forward has grown murky.
With a new CEO often comes a new vision for content. D'Amaro has yet to fully outline his film strategy, leaving projects announced under the previous regime, like 'Hocus Pocus 3,' in a precarious position. While writer Jen D'Angelo is still attached, the prolonged silence and lack of outreach to the original cast suggest the project may be on a back burner, if not shelved entirely for the time being.
This kind of production limbo is not unique in Hollywood. Just as fans await news on 'Peacemaker' Season 3, the fate of beloved franchises often hinges on executive decisions. The situation highlights how behind-the-scenes changes can directly impact what stories finally make it to the screen.
Looking Back at 'Hocus Pocus 2' and Forward
'Hocus Pocus 2' followed new teenagers Becca and Izzy as they accidentally resurrected the witches. The film expanded the lore with new characters like the Mother Witch (Hannah Waddingham) and magic shop owner Gilbert (Sam Richardson), while also providing more backstory for the Sandersons. Its post-credits scene, featuring a second Black Flame Candle, was clearly designed to set up a third chapter.
For now, the original cast members are in a holding pattern, waiting for a call that may never come. Their update underscores the unpredictable nature of franchise filmmaking, especially at a studio like Disney which is constantly evaluating its slate. As the company focuses on other streaming successes, like the recent surge for Guy Ritchie's 'Aladdin' remake on Disney+, the future of the Sanderson Sisters and their original foes remains one of Hollywood's unanswered spells.
Until Disney's new leadership provides clearer direction, the brooms of the Sanderson sisters may remain grounded. Fans of the classic film will have to keep their fingers crossed that the magic isn't gone for good.
