The anticipated ‘Hocus Pocus 3’ is on the horizon, sparking fervent fan discussions about the return of beloved original characters after ‘Hocus Pocus 2′ largely excluded them. While key figures like Omri Katz, Vinessa Shaw, and Tobias Jelinek express enthusiasm for reprising their roles, director Anne Fletcher and writer Jen D’Angelo have shed light on the creative challenges and potential storylines for the next installment, promising a deeper dive into the Sanderson Sisters’ lore.
The original Hocus Pocus, released in 1993, quickly cemented itself as a Halloween classic, enchanting audiences with the mischievous Sanderson Sisters and the brave teens who faced them. Nearly three decades later, the highly anticipated sequel, Hocus Pocus 2, brought back the iconic witches, but notably omitted many of the original film’s beloved human characters, sparking both delight and debate among fans. As talks of a third installment, Hocus Pocus 3, gain momentum, the burning question remains: will Max, Allison, Dani, and even the bullies Jay and Ice finally make their triumphant return?
The Absence in ‘Hocus Pocus 2’: A Creative Decision Explained
The 2022 sequel introduced a new group of teenagers – Becca, Izzy, and Cassie – to confront the resurrected Sanderson Sisters. While the film was a hit, many fans felt the absence of Omri Katz (Max Dennison), Vinessa Shaw (Allison Watts), and Thora Birch (Dani Dennison) acutely. Director Anne Fletcher addressed this decision, explaining to Entertainment Weekly that bringing back the original leads, even for a cameo, presented significant story challenges.
Fletcher elaborated that the team meticulously considered weaving in all the fan-favorite characters. However, she noted that placing the original film’s leads in background roles would likely lead to fan dissatisfaction rather than appreciation. The focus for Hocus Pocus 2 remained firmly on the Sanderson Sisters and their dynamic with the new generation of Salem kids.
Who Returned for ‘Hocus Pocus 2’?
Despite the absence of the original human protagonists, Hocus Pocus 2 did successfully bring back several key figures from the first film, much to the delight of the fanbase.
- Bette Midler as Winifred Sanderson
- Kathy Najimy as Mary Sanderson
- Sarah Jessica Parker as Sarah Sanderson
- Doug Jones as Billy Butcherson
Doug Jones‘ return as the zombified ex-boyfriend Billy Butcherson was particularly celebrated, with the sequel delving deeper into his backstory and relationship with Winifred. Jones noted that stepping back into the role felt seamless, praising the sequel for preserving the original’s nostalgia while modernizing it for a new audience. His costume, including the exact same wig from 1993, further enhanced the sense of continuity and authenticity.
The Call for ‘Hocus Pocus 3’: Original Characters Ready for a Comeback
The ending of Hocus Pocus 2 strongly hinted at the possibility of another sequel, with the reveal of a second Black Flame Candle and the lingering threat of the Mother Witch. This potential Hocus Pocus 3 has reignited discussions about finally reuniting the original human cast with the Sanderson Sisters.
Tobias Jelinek’s Enthusiasm for ‘Hocus Pocus 3’
Tobias Jelinek, who played bully Jay in the original film, recently shared his hopes for a return in a third movie. In an exclusive interview with Entertainment Weekly, Jelinek confirmed he has not yet been asked to join Hocus Pocus 3 but expressed immense curiosity about the direction the story would take. He stressed that his return would ideally involve a reunion with his on-screen partner Larry Bagby (Ice), as well as Omri Katz, Vinessa Shaw, and Jason Marsden (the voice of Thackery Binx).
Jelinek also reacted to the revelation of a cut scene from the Hocus Pocus 2 script that would have featured Jay and Ice. Writer Jen D’Angelo had envisioned a moment where the bullies, now humbled, would hide from the flying Sanderson Sisters, showcasing their cowardly nature. Jelinek found the idea hilarious, even suggesting a post-credits scene of them still singing in their cages.
The Original Trio’s Openness to Return
The desire for a full reunion isn’t one-sided. Omri Katz, Vinessa Shaw, and Jason Marsden have all previously expressed their willingness to return for a third Hocus Pocus film. Shaw noted that reminiscing about the original film only strengthens their fondness for the story, while Katz stated he’d be “100 percent down to do it” if Disney extended the invitation. Their commitment underscores the strong bond they feel to the franchise and its dedicated fanbase.
How Original Characters Could Re-Enter the ‘Hocus Pocus’ Universe
While Hocus Pocus 2 chose a new path, the possibility of Hocus Pocus 3 offers a fresh opportunity to bring back the original characters in meaningful adult roles.
- Parental Figures: Max and Allison could appear as the parents of new Salem teens, perhaps even connecting them to the new trio of Becca, Izzy, and Cassie.
- Community Leaders: Given their past experience, they could serve as knowledgeable adults in Salem who understand the supernatural threats, acting as mentors or even witch-hunters.
- Direct Involvement: Dani, having grown up with a firsthand encounter with the Sanderson Sisters, could be a formidable ally or even a proactive force against dark magic.
Writer Jen D’Angelo, who is also working on Hocus Pocus 3, has indicated that expanding the storyline of Hannah Waddingham’s Mother Witch is a possibility, suggesting a broader mythological scope. This could create new avenues for the original characters to fit into an overarching narrative, perhaps even having a family history connected to the witch lore.
As Sarah Jessica Parker confirmed that discussions for Hocus Pocus 3 are ongoing, the anticipation among fans continues to build. The return of the original characters would not only satisfy nostalgic desires but also offer a rich, multi-generational story, uniting the past and present of Salem’s ongoing struggle against the Sanderson Sisters. For many, a true Hocus Pocus reunion would be the ultimate magic trick.
