Full Breakdown
Bette Midler Confirms Development of Hocus Pocus 3
10/18/2025, 3:34:56 PM
Script Development and Excitement
Bette Midler, renowned for her role as Winifred Sanderson in the Hocus Pocus franchise, recently revealed that a third installment, Hocus Pocus 3, is officially in development. During an appearance on Bravo's *Watch What Happens Live* with Andy Cohen, Midler disclosed that she has read the script for the sequel, describing much of it as "brilliant." She expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I got very excited, and now we're trying to figure out what it is and where it's going to be and how much it's going to cost and all those logistical things.”
Background on the Franchise
The original Hocus Pocus film was released by Disney in 1993, followed by a sequel, Hocus Pocus 2, which premiered on Disney+ in 2022. The sequel was a significant success, becoming the #1 film premiere on the platform domestically, with 5.7 billion minutes viewed, making it the fifth most-streamed movie of 2022. The franchise features Midler alongside Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy as the iconic Sanderson Sisters.
Creative Team Insights
Jen D'Angelo, who penned the script for Hocus Pocus 2, is also involved in writing Hocus Pocus 3. In a recent interview, she expressed her hopes to explore various aspects of the Sanderson Sisters' stories and take the characters on new adventures. However, she noted that the project is still in its early stages, with many details yet to be finalized.
Challenges in Development
Midler reflected on the lengthy journey to bring Hocus Pocus 2 to fruition, highlighting that it took 30 years for the sequel to be made. She compared this experience to her attempts to create a sequel for another of her films, *The First Wives Club*, which faced numerous obstacles at Paramount Pictures. Midler stated, “We tried and tried and tried... but they just didn’t feel like it. We were really insulted.”
Potential Cast and Character Returns
Tobias Jelinek, who portrayed Jay in the original Hocus Pocus, has expressed interest in returning for the third film. He noted that while he has not been approached yet, he would be eager to reprise his role under the right circumstances. Jelinek mentioned the importance of including original cast members, stating, “If it was done right, I know for a fact Larry would make sure we both did it.”
Official Statements and Future Prospects
While no specific release date or production timeline has been announced for Hocus Pocus 3, the excitement surrounding its development is palpable. Midler's enthusiasm, combined with the success of the previous films, suggests a strong potential for the sequel to resonate with audiences. As the creative team continues to refine the script and logistics, fans await further updates on this beloved franchise.
Verbatim Quotes
- “ “They sent a script [for Hocus Pocus 3], and a lot of it was brilliant.” — Bette Midler, Actress
- “I'm hoping that we are able to explore every aspect of these stories and take these characters on a bunch of fun adventures,” — Jen D'Angelo, Screenwriter
- “They just didn’t feel like it. We were really insulted.” — Bette Midler, Actress
- “If it was done right, I know for a fact Larry would make sure we both did it,” — Tobias Jelinek, Actor
As the project progresses, fans of the Hocus Pocus franchise remain hopeful for the return of the Sanderson Sisters and the continuation of their enchanting story.
