Bette Midler Says ‘Hocus Pocus 3’ Is Brewing and “Brilliant”

Bette Midler has cast a spell of excitement over fans of Hocus Pocus, confirming that a script for the long-awaited third film in Disney’s beloved witchy franchise has been completed. Appearing on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, the two-time Oscar nominee revealed that the producers are now deep in discussions about the practical details that will bring the Sanderson sisters back to the screen once again.

“Well, you know, they sent a script. And a lot of it was brilliant,” Midler shared with a grin, adding that she was “very excited” about what she had read. “Now we’re trying to figure out what it is and where it’s going to be and how much it’s going to cost and all those logistical things.”

Midler’s update marks the most promising sign yet that Hocus Pocus 3 is on track to materialise, following months of speculation and cautious optimism among fans. After the roaring success of 2022’s Hocus Pocus 2, which saw Midler reprise her role as Salem’s mischievous witch Winifred Sanderson alongside Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy, a sequel seemed inevitable. The film became a cultural event upon its release, breaking streaming records with 2.7 billion minutes viewed in its first week on Disney+, the biggest debut in the platform’s history at the time.

Disney confirmed last year that development on a third instalment was officially underway, with studio president Sean Bailey noting that the company was keen to continue the story of the Sanderson sisters. However, concrete details such as filming dates, returning cast members and directorial attachment remain under wraps.

In July, Parker revealed that the trio were still eager to reunite, saying, “We’ve been having some conversations,” though she admitted that things were still in the early stages. Najimy has also expressed interest in returning, though she hinted that scheduling could be a factor in whether the full witchy trio can reconvene.

The original Hocus Pocus (1993), directed by Kenny Ortega, has become a perennial Halloween favourite, blending comedy, nostalgia and supernatural flair. Nearly three decades later, Hocus Pocus 2 introduced a new generation to the magic, balancing reverence for the original with modern humour and heart.

If Midler’s enthusiasm is any indication, Hocus Pocus 3 could be shaping up to be a fitting final spell for the Sanderson sisters. As the actress herself might say, it sounds like the witches aren’t done flying just yet.

Hocus Pocus trailer