Los Angeles, CA – October 19, 2025 – Fans of the halloween classic ‘Hocus Pocus’ received a promising update today: Bette Midler has confirmed she has read a script for the long-awaited third installment. The Actress, who famously portrayed Winifred Sanderson in the 1993 original and its 2022 sequel, shared the news during an appearance on the talk show ‘Watch What Happens Live.’
Script Details and Production Hurdles
Table of Contents
- 1. Script Details and Production Hurdles
- 2. A Race Against Time
- 3. The Enduring Legacy of ‘Hocus Pocus’
- 4. Frequently Asked Questions About ‘Hocus Pocus 3’
- 5. How does Bette Midler’s description of the “Hocus Pocus 3” script as “brilliant” impact audience expectations for the film?
- 6. Bette Midler Calls “Hocus Pocus 3” Script “Brilliant” – what we certainly know So Far
- 7. The Sanderson Sisters Are Brewing Again: Development Updates
- 8. Bette Midler’s Comments: A Closer Look
- 9. The Journey to “hocus Pocus 3”: A Brief History
- 10. Why the “Hocus Pocus” Franchise Resonates with Audiences
- 11. Potential Themes and Story Arcs for the Sequel
- 12. Disney+ and the Future of the Franchise
Midler Described the script as “brilliant,” fueling excitement among fans eager to see the Sanderson sisters return to the screen. However, she also indicated that the project is still in the planning stages, with logistical considerations, including location and budget, currently under discussion. Two years ago, Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production president Sean Bailey affirmed that a third film was in development.
The original ‘Hocus Pocus,’ released in 1993,starred Midler alongside Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy as the mischievous Sanderson sisters. Despite initially being a box office disappointment, the film gained a dedicated following over the years, becoming a beloved Halloween tradition for many. The 2022 sequel proved a notable success, reigniting interest in the franchise.
A Race Against Time
Midler has previously expressed a sense of urgency regarding the production of ‘hocus Pocus 3,’ stating the need to film while the original cast remains available. Speaking on Busy Philipps’ show ‘Busy This Week’, the veteran actress urged Disney to proceed quickly, emphasizing the limited window to capitalize on the cast’s continued involvement. “Get us while we’re still breathing,” she remarked.
The Actress also revealed a surprising reflection on the initial reception of the first film, admitting she initially believed it would be a “dud” before it achieved “cult classic” status. She further highlighted the uniqueness of her ‘Hocus Pocus’ character, Winifred Sanderson, calling her “probably the least like me of any character” she has ever portrayed, but also acknowledging the role’s Shakespearean qualities and compelling villainous traits.
| Film | Release Date | Key Cast |
|---|---|---|
| Hocus Pocus | 1993 | Bette Midler,Sarah jessica Parker,Kathy najimy |
| Hocus Pocus 2 | 2022 | Bette Midler,Sarah Jessica Parker,Kathy Najimy |
| Hocus Pocus 3 | TBD | TBD |
Did You Know? The enduring popularity of ‘Hocus Pocus’ is evidenced by its consistent streaming numbers every Halloween season,regularly ranking among the most-watched films on Disney+.
Pro Tip: To relive the magic, consider hosting a ‘Hocus Pocus’ themed movie night with friends and family this Halloween!
The Enduring Legacy of ‘Hocus Pocus’
The continued interest in the ‘Hocus Pocus’ franchise speaks to the power of nostalgic entertainment and the enduring appeal of the Halloween season. the original film tapped into a unique blend of comedy, fantasy, and spooky fun, establishing a formula that resonated with audiences across generations. The success of the sequel demonstrated that the story had plenty of life left, invigorating a fanbase eager for more adventures with the Sanderson sisters. Disney’s willingness to revisit this property underscores the value of established intellectual property in today’s entertainment landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions About ‘Hocus Pocus 3’
What is the current status of ‘Hocus pocus 3’?
Bette Midler has confirmed a script exists and she finds it “brilliant,” but the film is still in the early stages of pre-production, with logistical details being worked out.
Will the original cast return for ‘Hocus Pocus 3’?
While not officially confirmed, Bette Midler has expressed a desire to film the sequel quickly while the original cast are still available.
When might ‘Hocus Pocus 3’ be released?
A release date has not yet been announced. Though, given the lead time typically required for film production, a release in late 2026 or 2027 seems probable.
Was the original ‘Hocus Pocus’ film initially successful?
No, the original film was not initially a box office success, but it gradually gained a cult following and became a Halloween staple.
What makes Winifred Sanderson a compelling villain?
Winifred Sanderson is a captivating villain because she is vicious, hilarious, and self-unaware, drawing inspiration from Shakespearean characters.
Will we see the Sanderson sisters stir up more trouble? As details emerge, Archyde.com will continue to provide updates on ‘Hocus Pocus 3.’ What are your hopes for the third installment? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
How does Bette Midler’s description of the “Hocus Pocus 3” script as “brilliant” impact audience expectations for the film?
Bette Midler Calls “Hocus Pocus 3” Script “Brilliant” – what we certainly know So Far
The Sanderson Sisters Are Brewing Again: Development Updates
Excitement is bubbling for Hocus Pocus 3 after Bette Midler, the iconic Winifred Sanderson, publicly praised the latest script. Film-News.co.uk initially reported on Midler’s keen reaction,describing it as “brilliant,” fueling already high anticipation for the Disney+ sequel. This news comes after years of speculation and fan demand for a continuation of the beloved Halloween franchise.
The original Hocus Pocus (1993) has become a cultural phenomenon,especially gaining traction with each passing October. hocus Pocus 2, released in 2022 on Disney+, proved the franchise’s enduring appeal, becoming one of the platform’s most-watched titles. The success of the second film paved the way for further installments, and now, with Midler’s positive feedback, the future looks bright for the Sanderson sisters.
Bette Midler’s Comments: A Closer Look
Midler’s comments,shared during a recent interview,weren’t just a polite nod to the project. She specifically highlighted the script’s quality, suggesting a significant step up from previous iterations. While details remain scarce, her praise indicates a story that honors the spirit of the original films while introducing fresh elements.
Here’s what we can glean from the available information:
* Script Quality: Midler’s “brilliant” assessment is a strong indicator of a well-developed narrative.
* Potential Storylines: While unconfirmed, rumors suggest the third film may explore the origins of the sanderson sisters, delving deeper into their backstory.
* Returning Cast: Sarah Jessica Parker (Sarah Sanderson) and Kathy Najimy (Mary Sanderson) are expected to reprise their roles alongside Midler.Confirmation from Disney is still pending.
The Journey to “hocus Pocus 3”: A Brief History
The path to a third Hocus Pocus film wasn’t straightforward. For years, a sequel seemed unlikely. However, the original film’s consistent popularity, especially through annual Halloween re-watches, kept the conversation alive.
Here’s a timeline of key events:
- 1993: Hocus Pocus is released, initially receiving mixed reviews but gaining a cult following over time.
- Early 2000s: Discussions about a sequel begin, but never materialize.
- 2018: Kenny Ortega, director of hocus Pocus 2, expresses interest in a third film.
- 2022: Hocus Pocus 2 is released on Disney+, reigniting franchise momentum.
- 2024: Script development intensifies, leading to Bette Midler’s recent praise.
- 2025: production is anticipated to begin, with a potential release date in late 2026 or 2027.
Why the “Hocus Pocus” Franchise Resonates with Audiences
The enduring appeal of Hocus Pocus lies in its unique blend of comedy, fantasy, and Halloween spirit. The film taps into a nostalgic fondness for classic Disney movies while offering a playfully spooky experience.
Key factors contributing to its success include:
* Iconic characters: The Sanderson sisters are instantly recognizable and beloved villains.
* Halloween Theme: The film perfectly captures the magic and excitement of Halloween.
* Family-Friendly Entertainment: Hocus Pocus is suitable for audiences of all ages.
* Nostalgia Factor: For many, the film evokes fond childhood memories.
Potential Themes and Story Arcs for the Sequel
Given Midler’s positive reaction to the script, speculation is rife about the direction Hocus pocus 3 will take.Several potential themes and story arcs are being discussed online:
* Exploring the Sisters’ Origins: A prequel-style narrative could reveal how the sanderson sisters became witches and the events that led to their initial downfall.
* New Generations: Introducing a new group of children who must confront the Sanderson sisters, mirroring the dynamic of the original film.
* Expanding the Magical Universe: Delving deeper into the world of witchcraft and introducing new magical creatures and spells.
* Redemption Arc?: A surprising twist could see the Sanderson sisters attempting to use their powers for good.
Disney+ and the Future of the Franchise
The decision to release Hocus Pocus 2 on Disney+ signaled a shift in Disney’s strategy, prioritizing streaming as a key platform for franchise extensions.This approach allows for a wider audience reach and the potential for ongoing content creation. Hocus Pocus 3 is expected to follow suit, becoming another exclusive offering on the streaming service. This strategy aligns with Disney’s broader efforts to bolster its Disney+ subscriber base and compete in the increasingly crowded streaming landscape.The success of Hocus Pocus 2 demonstrated the
