Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy are set to officially return for Disney’s live-action Hocus Pocus 3, which is currently in very early development, The Wrap has learned.
Hocus Pocus 2 director Anne Fletcher and writer Jen D’Angelo will also return to the witchy franchise.
According to Deadline, which first reported the news, “We understand there are plans for a theatrical distribution component this time around.”
Jessica Virtue, EVP of Production at Disney Live Action, will oversee the project.
The Original Film’s Legacy
The original Hocus Pocus, directed by Kenny Ortega and cowritten by Mick Garris, follows a trio of witches resurrected in modern-day Salem. Released in the summer of 1993, the film initially underperformed at the box office but later gained cult status through home video, streaming, and repeated airings on The Disney Channel and Freeform.
Today, the 1993 classic is a Halloween staple, and its enduring popularity led to the development of a sequel, which was finalized with the launch of Disney+.
Other Disney+ sequels and franchise extensions include Zombies 3, Disenchanted, Night at the Museum: Kahmunrah Rises Again, and The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild.
Announcement Details
The news of a third Hocus Pocus film was revealed during a New York Times profile of former Walt Disney Studios president Sean Bailey.
Cast Profiles
Bette Midler has earned 4 Grammy Awards, 2 Academy Award nominations, 3 Emmy Awards, 2 Tony Awards, 3 Golden Globe Awards, and 9 American Comedy Awards. Her notable film roles include The Rose, Down and Out in Beverly Hills, Beaches, The First Wives Club, and Hocus Pocus.
Sarah Jessica Parker is best known for leading the Sex and the City franchise and its film sequels. Her filmography also includes Ed Wood, The Family Stone, and The First Wives Club.
Kathy Najimy is recognized for her roles in Sister Act, Rat Race, The Wedding Planner, and most recently, Hoppers.
Midler is represented by CAA. Parker is represented by CAA and Schreck Rose Dapello Adams LLP. Najimy is represented by Independent Artist Group.
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