The sequel Hocus Pocus 2 is now on Disney+, and while the follow-up film to the 1993 classic brings back many familiar faces, Thora Birch is not among them. A former child star, Birch appeared in the original Hocus Pocus as Dani, the younger sister of Omri Katz’s Max Dennison. It had previously been reported that Birch would not be in the new film despite efforts from the filmmakers to have her included.
In a new interview with Entertainment Tonight, Birch spoke more about her absence in Hocus Pocus 2. She confirms that there were plans to get her involved, revealing that the filmmakers had multiple concepts for how to bring Dani back. The issue was not with the creative plans for her character, which she loved, but with the timing, as Birch was busy working on another project when Hocus Pocus 2 was filming. With that said, Birch is leaving the door open for Dani’s return in Hocus Pocus 3, should that be something that ever comes to be.
MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY
In a separate chat with ET, Birch added that she was “dismayed” to miss out on Hocus Pocus 2 but is nevertheless excited to watch the movie on Disney+.
Hocus Pocus 2 Has Arrived on Disney+
Walt Disney Studios
There are some returning stars for Hocus Pocus 2, notably with the Sanderson Sisters returning with original actresses Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy, and Sarah Jessica Parker. There are other surprises for fans of the original movie, such as Doug Jones returning as Billy Butcherson. The film also stars Sam Richardson, Whitney Peak, Belissa Escobedo, Tony Hale, and Hannah Waddingham. Anne Fletcher directed the sequel using a screenplay written by Jen D’Angelo.
You can check out the official trailer and synopsis for Hocus Pocus 2 below. The movie is now streaming on Disney+.
