TL;DR
Disney has confirmed that ‘Hocus Pocus 3’ is officially in development, ending years of speculation. The sequel is now progressing after a delay due to contract issues, with fans eager for the return of the Sanderson sisters.
Disney has confirmed that ‘Hocus Pocus 3’ is officially in development, ending years of fan anticipation and speculation. The news was announced after a period of stalled negotiations, and the project is now moving forward, promising a new chapter in the beloved franchise.
Former Walt Disney president Sean Bailey confirmed in 2023 that ‘Hocus Pocus 3’ was in development. Recent reports from Deadline in May 2026 indicate that a halt caused by contract negotiations has been resolved, allowing production to resume. The sequel has been highly anticipated since Disney+ released ‘Hocus Pocus 2’ in 2022, which became the platform’s most-watched original film within three days of release.
While specific plot details remain under wraps, the original stars, including Bette Midler, have expressed enthusiasm about returning. Midler has publicly stated her desire to continue playing Winifred Sanderson and has shown interest in a franchise continuation. The creative team is reportedly exploring new storylines, possibly involving the witches traveling somewhere they haven’t been before, to keep the series fresh.
Why It Matters
This development is significant because it confirms the continuation of a franchise with a dedicated fanbase that has been eager for a third installment. The ‘Hocus Pocus’ franchise has become a cultural staple for Halloween entertainment, and its expansion could influence future Disney projects aimed at nostalgic audiences. The return of the original cast and the potential for new characters could also boost interest and viewership for the upcoming film.
Hocus Pocus
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Background
The franchise’s resurgence began with the 2022 release of ‘Hocus Pocus 2’, which attracted widespread attention and set viewership records for Disney+. The original film, released in 1993, has maintained a cult following, especially around Halloween. Despite initial delays and contract negotiations, Disney’s confirmation of the sequel’s development signals a renewed commitment to the series, with fans and cast members eager to see what’s next.
“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
It is not yet clear what the exact storyline of ‘Hocus Pocus 3’ will be, or which original characters will return. Specific plot details and casting decisions remain under wraps, and production schedules are still being finalized. Additionally, the scope of the sequel—whether it will focus on new characters or bring back familiar faces—is still uncertain.
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What’s Next
Next steps include finalizing the script, confirming cast members, and beginning production. Fans can expect official announcements about release dates and plot details in the coming months, with the film likely targeting a Halloween release to capitalize on the franchise’s seasonal popularity.
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Key Questions
When will ‘Hocus Pocus 3’ be released?
There is no confirmed release date yet, but production is underway following recent developments. Fans should watch for official announcements from Disney.
Will the original cast return for ‘Hocus Pocus 3’?
It is still uncertain which original cast members will reprise their roles, but Bette Midler has expressed enthusiasm about returning. The production team is exploring options to include key characters.
What could the plot of ‘Hocus Pocus 3’ be about?
Details are under wraps, but some reports suggest the witches might go somewhere they haven’t been before, possibly involving new characters or a different setting.
Why was there a delay in developing ‘Hocus Pocus 3’?
The delay was caused by contract negotiations, which have now been resolved, allowing production to proceed.
Will other characters like Dani or Max be in the new film?
It remains to be seen. Screenwriter Jen D’Angelo has indicated hope that original characters like Max and Dani might appear, but nothing has been confirmed.
