Disney Officially Developing ‘Hocus Pocus 3’ With Original Sanderson Sisters Returning

Disney is officially moving forward with Hocus Pocus 3, bringing back iconic stars Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy as the beloved Sanderson Sisters in the next chapter of the hugely successful Halloween franchise.

The long-awaited Hocus Pocus 3 sequel is currently in early development at Disney Live Action Studios, marking another major expansion of one of Disney’s most popular cult-classic movie franchises. Following the massive streaming success of Hocus Pocus 2 on Disney+, the studio is reportedly exploring a theatrical release for the third installment.

Although Disney has not officially confirmed release details, excitement surrounding Hocus Pocus 3 has continued to grow among fans eager to see the return of Winnie, Sarah and Mary Sanderson.

Original Sanderson Sisters Returning for Hocus Pocus 3.

Fans of the original Hocus Pocus will once again see the legendary Sanderson coven reunite on screen. Sources close to the production indicate that negotiations with Midler, Parker and Najimy have now been finalized after previous discussions reportedly stalled over salary agreements.

The return of the original trio is expected to be one of the biggest selling points for Disney as the studio looks to capitalize on the enduring popularity of the franchise during the Halloween season.

News of Hocus Pocus 3 was first revealed in 2023 by former Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production president Sean Bailey. However, after Bailey departed Disney in 2024, the project temporarily lost momentum before recently being revived.

Hocus Pocus Franchise Remains a Halloween Favorite.

Since its release in 1993, Hocus Pocus has become one of the most beloved Halloween movies of all time. Set in Salem, Massachusetts, the film follows three resurrected 17th-century witches who attempt to steal the life force of local children in order to gain eternal youth.

Directed by Kenny Ortega, the original movie also featured performances from Thora Birch, Omri Katz, James Marsden and Sean Murray.

Despite modest box office results during its original theatrical run, the film exploded in popularity over the years through television broadcasts, home media and streaming, ultimately becoming a staple of Halloween entertainment.

Hocus Pocus 2 Helped Revive the Franchise.

Disney reignited interest in the franchise with the release of Hocus Pocus 2 in 2022. Directed by Anne Fletcher, the sequel debuted exclusively on Disney+ and quickly became one of the platform’s most-watched original films.

The sequel introduced a new generation of Salem teens while reuniting audiences with the Sanderson Sisters nearly three decades after the events of the original film. The movie also featured performances from Hannah Waddingham, Tony Hale, Whitney Peak and Belissa Escobedo.

With Disney now developing Hocus Pocus 3, speculation is growing that additional cast members from previous films could return for what many fans believe may serve as the final installment in the trilogy.

Will Former Hocus Pocus Cast Members Return?

Several stars from the original movie have openly discussed their interest in returning to the franchise. Both Thora Birch and James Marsden have previously expressed enthusiasm about revisiting Salem and reconnecting with the Sanderson Sisters storyline.

While Disney has not revealed plot details for Hocus Pocus 3, bringing back familiar faces from earlier films could provide major nostalgia appeal and strengthen fan anticipation ahead of release.

Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy Continue to Lead the Franchise.

The continued success of the Hocus Pocus franchise is closely tied to the chemistry and popularity of its three lead actresses.

Bette Midler remains one of Hollywood’s most celebrated performers, earning multiple Grammy Awards, Emmy Awards and Oscar nominations throughout her career. Beyond Hocus Pocus, she is widely recognized for acclaimed films including Beaches and The First Wives Club.

Sarah Jessica Parker is internationally known for leading the Sex and the City franchise, while Kathy Najimy has built a successful career through fan-favorite films such as Sister Act and The Wedding Planner.

As Disney continues development on Hocus Pocus 3, fans can expect ongoing updates regarding casting, production schedules and a possible release date in the coming months.