TL;DR
Disney has confirmed that ‘Hocus Pocus 3’ is officially in development after a lengthy delay. The franchise’s return has been confirmed by former Disney executives, with production resuming following contract negotiations. Fans are eager to see how the witches will return and what new adventures await.
Disney has officially confirmed that ‘Hocus Pocus 3’ is in development, marking the franchise’s return after years of fan demand and speculation. This development comes after a period of stalled negotiations, now resolved, paving the way for new production. The confirmation is significant for fans eager to see the iconic witches reprise their roles in a new story.
Former Walt Disney president Sean Bailey confirmed in 2023 that ‘Hocus Pocus 3’ was in development. According to Deadline, recent reports indicate that the project is now moving forward after a halt caused by contract negotiations has been resolved. The original stars, including Bette Midler, have expressed enthusiasm about returning, with Midler stating she would love to continue playing Winifred Sanderson.
Details about the plot remain under wraps, but Midler has noted that the story’s direction will be a surprise even to her. The franchise’s success, including the popularity of ‘Hocus Pocus 2’ released in 2022, has made a third film a logical next step. There is speculation about bringing back other original stars, such as Thora Birch, and integrating characters like Max and Dani Dennison into the new installment.
Why It Matters
The confirmation of ‘Hocus Pocus 3’ is notable because it signals the franchise’s enduring popularity and Disney’s willingness to invest in a beloved cult classic. The return of the witches could attract a broad audience, including new viewers and nostalgic fans, potentially boosting Disney’s Halloween programming and franchise portfolio. The development also indicates ongoing interest in expanding the ‘Hocus Pocus’ universe beyond its current films.
Hocus Pocus
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Background
The original ‘Hocus Pocus’ film debuted in 1993 and gained cult status over the years, especially after Disney’s 2022 sequel, which became the most-watched original film on Disney+ within three days of release. The sequel introduced a new generation of fans and revived interest in the franchise. Despite initial enthusiasm, progress on a third film stalled due to contract negotiations and scheduling conflicts, but recent updates suggest these issues have now been resolved.
“Yes, Hocus Pocus 3 is happening.”
— Sean Bailey, former Walt Disney president
“I’m envious of other actors who have franchises, and I was hoping for a sequel to First Wives Club, but we never got that. After 30 years with no sequel to Hocus Pocus, I’ve always been envious of people who get to do their favorite character more than once. The fact that we got to do this finally, after 30 years of promoting the idea, I’m glad we got to do it. I’d love to have a franchise — especially a character I love playing.”
— Bette Midler, actress
“We tried so hard to get the original cast back for cameos and then it just kept not working out for one reason or the other. But I’m hoping in Hocus Pocus 3, we’ll see Max and Alison living in California.”
— Jen D’Angelo, screenwriter
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What Remains Unclear
Details about the plot, cast, and specific storylines remain undisclosed. It is unclear whether all original cast members will return, or what new elements the story will introduce. The timeline for production and release has not been officially confirmed beyond the current development status.
![Hocus Pocus [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51Z6SCEWN4L._SL500_.jpg)
Hocus Pocus [Blu-ray]
25th Anniversary Edition
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What’s Next
Next steps include finalizing the script, confirming cast members, and beginning official production. Fans can expect updates on casting and release dates in the coming months, with a potential premiere possibly in late 2026 or early 2027.
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Key Questions
When will ‘Hocus Pocus 3’ be released?
There is no official release date yet, but production is expected to start soon, with a potential release in late 2026 or early 2027.
Will the original cast return for ‘Hocus Pocus 3’?
It has not been confirmed, but there is hope and ongoing efforts to include original stars like Bette Midler and possibly Thora Birch, depending on scheduling and negotiations.
What will the story of ‘Hocus Pocus 3’ be about?
Details are being kept under wraps, but the story is expected to explore new adventures for the witches, possibly involving new characters and locations, with the franchise aiming to go beyond rehashing past plots.
Will there be new characters or returning favorites?
While specifics are unknown, there is speculation about bringing back original characters like Max and Dani, and introducing new ones to expand the story.
Why did it take so long for ‘Hocus Pocus 3’ to be confirmed?
Initial delays were caused by contract negotiations and scheduling conflicts, which have now been resolved, allowing the project to move forward.
