Hocus Pocus 3 is now officially in the works, and Disney has dropped hints about the cast, story, and release date of the third installment. After a long 29-year wait, Disney released a sequel to the 1993 film Hocus Pocus, featuring Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy, and Sarah Jessica Parker as the Sanderson Sisters. Although not an immediate hit at the box office, Hocus Pocus gained popularity over the years, especially during Halloween broadcasts. The second installment, Hocus Pocus 2, came to Disney+ in 2022, and now Hocus Pocus 3 is in development, completing the Sanderson sister trilogy.
Hocus Pocus 3 Is Confirmed
Indeed, Hocus Pocus 3 is now in the works, as confirmed by Walt Disney Pictures President Sean Bailey in June 2023. Despite mixed reviews for Hocus Pocus 2, it became a massive success on Disney+, emerging as the most-viewed movie premiere on the platform. The decision to move forward with Hocus Pocus 3 was not unexpected. While Hocus Pocus 2 went directly to Disney+, it remains uncertain if the third installment will follow the same distribution approach.
Hocus Pocus 3 cast: Who will return?
The cast for Hocus Pocus 3 isn’t confirmed yet, but there’s optimism from various characters and the director of Hocus Pocus 2 that they might return for their roles.
Thinking about Hocus Pocus 3 without Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy reprising their roles as the Sanderson sisters feels just wrong. These three actresses made the first movie so special, and it’s hard to imagine the magic without them. Fans have a strong connection with the original trio, and not having them back in the potential third movie might not sit well with the audience. Their return seems crucial to keep the Hocus Pocus charm alive.
Katz expressed his desire to return for Hocus Pocus 3. Writer Jen D’Angelo wishes to see Katz and Vinessa Shaw (Allison) join the cast (via Variety). D’Angelo revealed, “We tried so hard to get the original cast back for cameos, and then it just kept not working out for one reason or the other. But I’m hoping in Hocus Pocus 3, we’ll see Max and Alison living in California.” Additionally, actor Sam Richardson, who portrayed the villain Gilbert in Hocus Pocus 2, has shown strong interest in returning to the franchise (via Twitter).
What Is the Third Movie Going To Be About?
The plot for Hocus Pocus 3 is still a mystery, but we can make some guesses based on the last movie. At the end of Hocus Pocus 2, when Winifred decides to rejoin her sisters, the magical spellbook, known as “Book,” gets a new owner in Becca, setting the stage for Hocus Pocus 3. Notably, Becca, who turns 16 on the same Halloween night, discovers that she possesses witch powers. The story in Hocus Pocus 3 might focus on her newfound abilities as the tale passes to a new group in Salem.
When Will Hocus Pocus 3 Release?
Considering the tradition of releasing Hocus Pocus films around the Halloween season, it’s unlikely for Hocus Pocus 3 to hit theaters in 2024. The anticipated release date would probably fall in September or October 2025, aligning with the spooky spirit of the Halloween festivities. While specific details about the release date are yet to be confirmed, fans can eagerly await another magical adventure with the Sanderson Sisters around the time of the witching hour.
