In a moment that’s enchanting longtime fans and igniting fresh excitement in the world of Hollywood sequels, Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock have officially reunited on the set of Practical Magic 2. More than two decades after the original film charmed audiences with its blend of sisterhood, heartbreak, and mystical folklore, the iconic duo is back in character as the Owens sisters — Gillian and Sally.
A Magical Reunion After 27 Years
Nicole Kidman sent fans into a frenzy with an Instagram post on July 19, captioned:
“The witches are back. Owens sisters’ first day on set!”
The post featured a behind-the-scenes snapshot of her warm embrace with Sandra Bullock, taken during a scene filmed in a serene cemetery setting — an appropriate start to a story steeped in ancestral magic and generational healing.
The last time we saw Gillian and Sally was in 1998, when Practical Magic, directed by Griffin Dunne and based on Alice Hoffman’s novel, hit theaters. Though it received lukewarm critical reviews at the time, the film became a Halloween cult classic, beloved for its mystical charm, powerful female leads, and atmospheric storytelling.
What We Know About Practical Magic 2
Director: Susanne Bier, known for The Night Manager and The Undoing, is taking the helm.
Writers: Akiva Goldsman (who co-wrote the 1998 film) and Succession’s Georgia Pritchett.
Source Material: The sequel draws inspiration from Alice Hoffman’s 2021 novel The Book of Magic, which continues the saga of the Owens women.
According to Warner Bros., the new story explores the next generation of witches in the Owens family while revisiting unresolved threads from the original film. Themes of love, grief, power, and familial loyalty are set to return, intertwined with new dangers and revelations about the magical bloodline.
Who’s Returning and Who’s New?
Returning Cast:
- Nicole Kidman as Gillian Owens
- Sandra Bullock as Sally Owens
- Stockard Channing as Aunt Frances
- Dianne Wiest as Aunt Jet
New Additions:
- Joey King as one of Sally’s grown-up daughters — now a young witch in her own right, spotted on set with deep red hair reminiscent of the Owens lineage.
- Maisie Williams (Game of Thrones) in a mysterious supporting role
- Lee Pace, Xolo Maridueña (Blue Beetle), and Solly McLeod (Tom Jones) in undisclosed roles
This ensemble promises a dynamic blend of the original’s beloved personalities with fresh blood who can carry the franchise forward.
What’s the Story This Time?
While Warner Bros. has not released an official synopsis, The Book of Magic gives us clues. The novel follows the Owens women grappling with a deadly family curse, one that dooms any man who dares love them. As new generations confront their heritage, the family must unite and decide whether to embrace or end their magical legacy once and for all.
Expect high-stakes emotional drama, ancient secrets, romantic twists, and the same soulful energy that made the original unforgettable.
What the Creators Are Saying
Producer Denise Di Novi, who also worked on the original film, promises fans a respectful and heartfelt continuation:
“This isn’t a reboot — it’s a continuation of a magical story that still resonates. We’re honoring the spirit of the original while creating something new for today’s audiences.”
Director Susanne Bier added that the sequel would “weave in more real-world emotional depth,” and explore “how magic — like family — can be both a blessing and a burden.”
When Will It Be Released?
Warner Bros. has set the theatrical release date for September 18, 2026 — a perfect fall premiere that aligns with the film’s cozy, candlelit, pumpkin-season aesthetic. It is expected to have a global release, with streaming availability projected on Max in early 2027.
Why It Matters
The return of Practical Magic comes at a time when Hollywood is embracing legacy sequels. But unlike many reboots that exist primarily to cash in on nostalgia, Practical Magic 2 carries a heartfelt, character-driven continuation. Its fanbase — largely women in their 30s and 40s — has grown up, many now with daughters of their own. The multigenerational casting, focus on legacy, and magical themes offer both emotional resonance and mass appeal.
First-Look Reaction Online
Social media erupted following Kidman’s post, with the hashtag #PracticalMagic2 trending within hours. Fans shared fan art, cosplay, and tearful reactions. One fan posted:
“This movie healed my teenage heart in the ’90s. Seeing Sandra and Nicole back as the Owens sisters is everything.”
Even major stars chimed in, with Reese Witherspoon commenting, “Can’t wait!!!” and Sarah Jessica Parker posting a black cat emoji and a broomstick.
