The Magic Continues: Everything We Know (So Far!) About Hocus Pocus 3

Okay, so Hocus Pocus 3! Can you even believe it? For years, fans like us just dreamed of one sequel, and then boom, Hocus Pocus 2 swooped in and totally delivered. And now, the magic just keeps on coming because Disney has officially confirmed that a third installment is indeed brewing. I mean, what a time to be a witchy movie lover, right?

It's all still super early days, so don't go clearing your calendars just yet for a premiere party. We're talking about a project that's currently in active development, with a script still being conjured up. Sean Bailey, the President of Walt Disney Pictures, spilled the beans himself, confirming the news that had many of us cackling with glee. It really felt like a massive vote of confidence after the second film just absolutely smashed it on Disney+, becoming their most-watched movie premiere ever!

Now, onto the burning question: will our beloved Sanderson Sisters be back? Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, the iconic trio, have all expressed interest, which, let's be honest, is probably the most crucial ingredient for Hocus Pocus 3 to truly feel right. Sarah Jessica Parker, who brings Winifred's cunning to life, mentioned, "Yes, I mean, we’ve all been very public about our interest in the third." Kathy Najimy echoed that sentiment, teasing us with a "never say never." So, while no contracts are signed in blood just yet (pun intended!), it certainly sounds promising. Can you imagine a Hocus Pocus without them? Sacrilege!

And what about Billy Butcherson? Our favorite zombie, Doug Jones, also seems keen to reprise his role. He told Entertainment Weekly that "Billy could come back" and he'd love to "go for a number three." Honestly, who wouldn't want more of his endearing, slightly confused antics?

As for the younger generation of Salem witches – Becca (Whitney Peak), Izzy (Belissa Escobedo), and Cassie (Lilia Buckingham) – their return hasn't been officially announced, but it feels like a natural progression. Hocus Pocus 2 introduced us to a whole new coven-in-training, and it would be fascinating to see their powers develop further, perhaps even facing off against or joining forces with the legendary sisters once more. Director Anne Fletcher, who helmed the second film, is set to return, which is fantastic news for continuity and maintaining that magical vibe we all adore.

Plot details? Ha! Those are under lock and key, probably hidden away in a dusty spellbook somewhere. But one can speculate, right? Given the ending of Hocus Pocus 2, which saw the Sanderson Sisters seemingly vanish, but with a new "mother" appearing, it leaves the door wide open for all sorts of magical mischief. Will a new threat emerge that requires the sisters to be brought back yet again? Or will the new generation of witches be the focus, perhaps stumbling upon a way to accidentally resurrect them (again!)? The possibilities are endless, and that's part of the fun!

When can we expect this cinematic treat? Well, with the script still being written and all the casting T's to cross and I's to dot, it's safe to say we're looking at a few years down the line. A 2025 or even 2026 release wouldn't surprise me. Good things, especially magical things, take time. But knowing it's on the way? That's enough to keep the spirit of Halloween alive in our hearts, year-round!