Excitement Builds for Hocus Pocus 3 as Script Progresses

Bette Midler, one of the stars of the beloved Halloween film franchise, has confirmed that a script for *Hocus Pocus 3* has been submitted and is currently under review. During an appearance on *Watch What Happens Live*, Midler expressed her excitement about the script, stating, “They sent a script and a lot of it was brilliant.” This development follows the success of *Hocus Pocus 2*, which set a record on Disney+ with over 2.7 billion minutes viewed in its debut week, solidifying the franchise's popularity and demand for further installments.

Bette Midler Offers an Update on the Status of Hocus Pocus 3Hocus Pocus 3 script called ‘brilliant’ by Bette Midler as Thora Birch opens door to returnOriginal Hocus Pocus Star Is 'Super Open' to Return to Possible ThreequelThora Birch ‘Super Open’ to returning as Dani Dennison in Hocus Pocus 3Variety Magazine

Thora Birch, who portrayed young Dani Dennison in the original 1993 film, has also expressed her willingness to reprise her role. In an interview with *Entertainment Tonight*, Birch stated, “Yeah, I’d like to know what they land on for how Dani wound up. I’m super open to the idea.” Birch's interest adds to the momentum for *Hocus Pocus 3*, especially since she and her original co-stars were absent from the sequel, which focused on the Sanderson sisters, played by Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy.

Variety MagazineThora Birch ‘Super Open’ to returning as Dani Dennison in Hocus Pocus 3Deadline HollywoodHocus Pocus 3 script called ‘brilliant’ by Bette Midler as Thora Birch opens door to returnOriginal Hocus Pocus Star Is 'Super Open' to Return to Possible ThreequelOriginal Hocus Pocus star is open to return for Hocus Pocus 3: "I’d like to know what they land on for how Dani wound up."Just Jared

The *Hocus Pocus* franchise has evolved significantly since its initial release, which was met with mixed reviews and moderate box office success. Over the years, it has gained a cult following, becoming a Halloween staple celebrated for its family-friendly charm. The success of *Hocus Pocus 2* has prompted Disney to expedite the development of a third film, with Sean Bailey, President of Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production, confirming that the project is underway.

Bette Midler Offers an Update on the Status of Hocus Pocus 3Original Hocus Pocus Star Is 'Super Open' to Return to Possible ThreequelHocus Pocus 3 script called ‘brilliant’ by Bette Midler as Thora Birch opens door to returnThora Birch ‘Super Open’ to returning as Dani Dennison in Hocus Pocus 3Deadline Hollywood

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the script and cast interest, several logistical challenges remain before production can commence. Midler noted that the team is still “trying to figure out what it is and where it’s going to be and how much it’s going to cost.” Additionally, the production schedule will need to accommodate the existing commitments of the cast, and budget approvals from Disney leadership are still pending.

Hocus Pocus 3 script called ‘brilliant’ by Bette Midler as Thora Birch opens door to return

While no official release date has been announced, there is speculation that *Hocus Pocus 3* could premiere around Halloween 2026. This timeline would allow sufficient time for production logistics to be sorted out and for promotional campaigns to ramp up in the lead-up to the holiday season. Fans are hopeful that the film will not only reunite the Sanderson sisters but also bring back original characters like Dani Dennison, creating a nostalgic experience for audiences.

Hocus Pocus 3 script called ‘brilliant’ by Bette Midler as Thora Birch opens door to return

• “In her words, "They sent a script and a lot of it was brilliant.” — Bette Midler, Actress

Bette Midler Offers an Update on the Status of Hocus Pocus 3

• “Yeah, I’d like to know what they land on for how Dani wound up. I’m super open to the idea.” — Thora Birch, Actress

Variety Magazine

As the anticipation for *Hocus Pocus 3* grows, the combination of a promising script and the potential return of original cast members signals a bright future for this beloved franchise.

Bette Midler Offers an Update on the Status of Hocus Pocus 3