The Return of the Owens Sisters
Fans of the 1998 cult classic are finally getting their wish. Almost 30 years after the original film, based on Alice Hoffman’s 1995 novel, hit theaters, Warner Bros. officially confirmed that Practical Magic 2 is in development. Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman are set to reprise their iconic roles as Sally and Gillian Owens.
The production is being spearheaded by the stars themselves, who are producing the film alongside Denise Di Novi. The screenplay is penned by acclaimed filmmaker Akiva Goldsman, known for his work on I, Robot and Cinderella Man.
Cast Updates and Character Returns
Nicole Kidman confirmed the reunion in mid-2024, noting that the opportunity to revisit these characters felt like the right time. The cast list has expanded significantly since the initial announcement:
- Returning Favorites: Dianne Wiest and Stockard Channing will return as the beloved Aunt Jet and Aunt Franny.
- New Additions: Joey King has been cast as the adult version of Sally’s daughter, Kylie, while Maisie Williams will take on the role of Antonia, Sally’s youngest daughter. Lee Pace, Xolo Maridueña, and Solly McLeod have also joined the ensemble.
Notably, Evan Rachel Wood, who played Kylie Owens in the original, has confirmed she will not be returning to the franchise, stating she was not asked to participate in the sequel.
Plot and Filming
The story follows a multi-generational family of witches grappling with a centuries-old curse that prevents them from finding love. While exact plot points remain largely under wraps, the film sees the family traveling to the U.K. after Kylie’s boyfriend suffers a tragic accident, sparking a quest to break the generational spell once and for all.
Directed by Susanne Bier, the production took place primarily at Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden in England, with additional location shooting throughout London. Kidman announced in September 2025 that filming had officially wrapped, sharing a heartwarming behind-the-scenes video of her and Bullock.
Reflecting on the Original Legacy
Though the 1998 film received mixed reviews upon release, it blossomed into a massive cult hit over the decades. Both Kidman and Bullock have spoken fondly of their time on set. Bullock famously reminisced about the improvised "midnight margaritas" scene, noting, «You know what? There’s no reason we shouldn’t be drunk here.»
As the trailer teases, the theme of the sequel remains deeply rooted in the bond between the protagonists. As the character of Aunt Franny notes in the teaser: «No magic is stronger than sisterhood. Cast by fate, tested by time and never broken.»