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Thora Birch open to Reprising Role in “Hocus Pocus 3”
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The actress who played young Dani Dennison in the 1993 cult classic says she’s eager to explore a potential return for the character in the upcoming Disney+ sequel.
Published: November 21, 2023
What happened?
Thora Birch, known for her role as young Dani Dennison in the original hocus Pocus (1993), has expressed her willingness to reprise the role in the forthcoming Disney+ sequel, Hocus Pocus 3. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, Birch stated she is “super open to the idea” and is curious about how the filmmakers envision Dani’s storyline.
Birch’s comments come as Disney+ continues development on the third installment, aiming to recapture the magic of the original film, which has become a Halloween staple for many.
the original “Hocus Pocus” and Its Legacy
Released on July 30, 1993, Hocus Pocus initially underperformed at the box office, grossing just $45.4 million domestically against a $25 million budget. However, consistent television airings, particularly during the Halloween season, propelled the film to cult status.
The film stars Bette Midler, Sarah jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as the Sanderson sisters, three witches resurrected in Salem, Massachusetts, on Halloween night. Thora Birch, alongside Omri Katz and Vinessa Shaw, played the Dennison siblings who attempt to stop the witches. The film’s blend of comedy, fantasy, and Halloween themes resonated with audiences over time.
“Hocus Pocus 2” and Disney+ Strategy
Disney+ released Hocus Pocus 2 on September 30, 2022. The sequel brought back Midler, parker, and Najimy, and introduced a new generation of characters. The film proved to be a critically important success for the streaming platform, becoming its most-watched movie during its opening weekend, with 2.7 million views according to Deadline.
This success underscores Disney’s strategy of leveraging popular franchises for its streaming service. Reboots and sequels of beloved films like Hocus Pocus draw subscribers and generate significant buzz. the performance of Hocus Pocus 2 directly led to the proclamation of Hocus Pocus 3 in June 2023.
| Film | Release Date | Domestic Gross | Streaming Platform |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hocus Pocus | July 30,1993 | $45.4 million | N/A |
| Hocus Pocus 2 | September 30, 2022 | N/A | Disney+ |