Two weeks ago it was revealed that Disney+ would begin developing a proper sequel to Hocus Pocus, one of the best kid-friendly Halloween-themed films ever made.
The Kenny Ortega-directed 1993 movie starred Omri Katz as a curious youngster who moves to Salem, where he struggles to fit in before awakening a trio of diabolical witches (played by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy) that were executed in the 17th century. The film also starred Thora Birch.
The initial report shared hopes that the sequel would resurrect all three witches, with Jen D’Angelo hired to write the screenplay. Sources said that D’Angelo has been tasked with finding a way to bring back the original cast of Bette Midler as Winifred, Sarah Jessica Parker as Sarah, and Kathy Najimy as Mary. It was then noted that none of them are attached at the moment, but the studio is hopeful that they’ll be involved with the sequel in some capacity.
Cue Sarah Jessica Parker, who took to Instagram to share her excitement. Within the post, she was asked, “Any chance of a sequel?” Her reply: “We have all said yes. Now we wait.”
While many have been quick to “confirm” the trio’s return, we need to pump the breaks quite a bit. Who did they say “yes” to? It’s possible that Disney execs, before moving forward with a direct sequel, checked to see if Jessica Parker, Midler, and Najimy would even entertain the idea. Even if the trio are interested in returning, a lot has to happen from the screenplay being written to contracts being signed.
While far from confirmed, this broomstick is at least flying in the right direction.