The Witches Are Back: Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman Begin Filming 'Practical Magic 2'
Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman have officially reunited to begin filming "Practical Magic 2," the highly anticipated sequel to the beloved 1998 film. Nicole Kidman shared a behind-the-scenes video on Instagram on Friday, July 18, 2025, featuring herself and Sandra Bullock embracing, confirming the commencement of principal photography. The official theatrical release date is set for September 18, 2026.
Nicole Kidman's Instagram Post Sparks Excitement
Kidman's Instagram post, captioned "The witches are back ✨ Owens sisters' first day on set! #PracticalMagic," quickly went viral, igniting excitement among fans of the original film. The post confirms that both actresses are reprising their iconic roles as sisters Sally and Gillian Owens.
Returning and New Cast Members Announced
In addition to Bullock and Kidman, Dianne Wiest and Stockard Channing are confirmed to return as the beloved Aunt Jet and Aunt Franny, completing the core quartet of the Owens family. Recent announcements have also revealed several new additions to the cast, expanding the magical world of "Practical Magic."
New Faces Join the Cast of 'Practical Magic 2'
The sequel will introduce fresh faces to the franchise, including Joey King, who is reportedly playing Sally's daughter. Other new cast members include Lee Pace, Maisie Williams, Xolo Maridueña, and Solly McLeod. These additions suggest that the sequel will explore new storylines and introduce a younger generation to the Owens family's legacy.
Evan Rachel Wood Not Returning: Role to Be Recast
However, not all original cast members are returning. Evan Rachel Wood, who played Kylie in the first film, announced around July 13, 2025, that she was not asked to reprise her role in the sequel. She expressed her disappointment, stating she would have "happily rejoined her sisters." The role of Kylie will be recast for "Practical Magic 2."
Behind-the-Scenes Team: Director and Writers
Susanne Bier, known for directing "Bird Box" (which also starred Sandra Bullock) and "The Undoing" (with Nicole Kidman), is at the helm of "Practical Magic 2." The script is being co-written by Akiva Goldsman, who co-wrote the original film, along with Georgia Pritchett ("Succession").
Production Team and Source Material
Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman, and Denise Di Novi, who produced the original film, are returning as producers for the sequel. According to reports, the film draws inspiration from Alice Hoffman's novel "The Book of Magic," which continues the story of the Owens family. This suggests that the sequel will delve deeper into the magical lore and family dynamics established in the first film and the book series.
Producer's Promise to Honor the Original
In August 2024, producer Denise Di Novi stated that the sequel aims to "honor" the original film's spirit and themes of sisterhood and family. The filmmaking team added in July 2025, "Twenty-five years ago, Sally, Gillian, Aunt Jet and Aunt Franny flew off the pages of Alice Hoffman's beloved novel and into theaters around the world, and we are thrilled to bring the Owens family back to the big screen... The enduring affection for these characters has been our inspiration to deliver the next installment in the Owens' story to new fans, and those who've been with us since the beginning."
Fan Reactions and Expectations
The news that Evan Rachel Wood was not invited back and her role is being recast has generated disappointment among some fans online, with discussions about potential reasons and whether it will impact the sequel's authenticity. There's a general sentiment among fans of both excitement for the return of beloved characters and a cautious hope that the sequel will capture the original's charm while offering a compelling new story. Given the original's cult classic status and the return of the lead actresses, there are high expectations for the sequel to deliver a film that lives up to its predecessor.
