Hocus Pocus stars set to return for sequel

Bette Midler and Sarah Jessica Parker are about to cast a new spell on audiences, with news that they're both set to return in the Hocus Pocus sequel.

In separate interviews, Midler and Jessica Parker confirmed that they'll be reprising their roles as the wickedly entertaining Sanderson sisters.

"I think that is something that Bette, Kathy, and I are very hospitable to the idea," Jessica Parker told Radio Andy, "and I think for a long time people had been talking about it as if people were moving forward with it in a real way but we were unaware of it. I think now we have gotten to the point where we all have agreed publicly to the right people that 'Yes, that would be a very, very fun idea.' So we'll see what the future holds."

Last October, Midler said she was keen to return: "Oh my goodness me. Oh I hope they get to me before I'm a corpse. We wanna fly again. I hope Disney+ is a big success and I hope we get to do it, because [Winifred Sanderson] is, of course, one of my favorite characters. I mean she's, in the zeitgeist. I have met people ⁠- I've met grownup people, like 40-year-olds, 50-year-olds ⁠- who say, 'Oh I remember that! Hocus Pocus! I was brought up on that.' It's so mortifying 'cause I still look 35."

However, their co-star, Kathy Najimy, strikes a somewhat more cautious note: "I heard about it online the same time as [everyone else]... Sarah [Jessica Parker] and Bette and I all have a million projects and things that we're into, so I don't know if they're gonna offer us [roles]."

Released in 1993 by Disney, Hocus Pocus was only a moderate hit on initial release, but soon developed a cult following. Midler, Jessica Parker and Najimy are the undead villains who seek to bring havoc on 20th century Salem, the very town where they were hanged for witchcraft.

The movie is famous for Midler's cackling take on 'I'll Put a Spell on You', and also features an early appearance from Guillermo del Toro favourite Doug Jones. He portrays the zombified Billy Butcherson, introduced as a villain, but who later becomes a good guy.

Jones has expressed enthusiasm for returning in the sequel. Back in March, Variety confirmed that director Adam Shankman will helm the project for Disney+.

Excited about the return of the Sanderson sisters? Let us know @Cineworld.