"Hocus Pocus 3" is officially in early development from Disney Live Action Studios, with stars Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy reprising their roles as the Sanderson sisters.
There are plans for a theatrical distribution component this time around, following the success of 2022’s straight-to-streaming "Hocus Pocus 2," available exclusively on Disney+.
News of a third installment of the bewitching films was announced in 2023 by Sean Bailey, former President of Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production.
After Bailey’s exit from Disney in 2024, the threequel was left in limbo.
It’s been just shy of three years since talk of the newest sequel reached a fever pitch, after Midler revealed a “brilliant” script was ready but “producers [were] working out ‘all those logistical things’ before they can return to complete the trilogy.”
The halt in negotiations came down to salary negotiations with Midler, Parker and Najimy, all of which have been worked out.
Plot details for "Hocus Pocus 3" are under wraps.
Released in 1993, "Hocus Pocus" is set on a Halloween Night when three 17th century witches — Winnie (Midler), Sarah (Parker), and Mary (Najimy) — are resurrected in Salem, Massachusetts, hundreds of years after their heyday.
Without missing a beat, the trio attempts to steal the life essence from the town’s children so they can have eternal life.
Directed by Kenny Ortega, the film also starred Omri Katz, Thora Birch, James Marsden, and Sean Murray.
In "Hocus Pocus 2," three high school students —Becca, Izzy, and Cassie— accidentally resurrect the Sanderson Sisters in modern-day Salem 29 years after the original film.
The trio must stop the witches from seeking revenge and causing havoc before dawn on All Hallows' Eve.
The sequel, directed by Anne Fletcher, also starred Hannah Waddingham, Belissa Escobedo, Tony Hale, and Whitney Peak.
Many former cast members mentioned above have spoken openly about wanting to return to the Sanderson coven, including Birch, and Marsden. If it indeed is the final installment of the "Hocus Pocus" franchise, it would be great fan service to bring back some familiar faces.
Across her lengthy career, Midler has received four Grammys, two Oscar nominations, three Emmy Awards and two Tony Awards. Along with Hocus Pocus, she has been recognized for standout roles in films including "The Rose," "Down and Out in Beverly Hills," "Beaches," and "The First Wives Club."
Two-time Emmy winner Parker led the "Sex and the City" TV franchise and its film sequels. Her film credits also include "Ed Wood," "The Family Stone," and "The First Wives Club".
Najimy is known for her roles in films including "Sister Act," "Rat Race," "The Wedding Planner," and most recently "Hoppers."
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