Disney+ made sure to give “Hocus Pocus” fans a treat this Halloween, revealing a slew of new cast members for “Hocus Pocus 2,” including “Ted Lasso” star Hannah Waddingham and “The Mysterious Benedict Society” star Tony Hale.
Their specific characters have yet to be revealed, but naturally, fans are already freaking out.
In an announcement on Twitter, Disney revealed that the full list of newcomers also includes “Gossip Girl” star Whitney Peak, Lilia Buckingham, Belissa Escobedo, Sam Richardson, Juju Brener, Froy Gutierrez, Taylor Henderson and Nina Kitchen.
The tweet also confirmed that Doug Jones will be returning for the sequel, alongside original stars Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy. Jones played Billy Butcherson in “Hocus Pocus,” a former paramour of both Winifred Sanderson (Midler) and Sarah Sanderson (Parker). He was caught cheating on the former with the latter.
The teaser also brought the return of the black flame candle, which was responsible for bringing the Sanderson sisters back to life in the original film. It’s unclear how it will factor into the new story, if at all, but it’s a fitting nod, considering Max Dennison did light it on Halloween.
At this point, Max Dennison himself — originally played by Omri Katz — has not been confirmed for “Hocus Pocus 2,” nor have Thora Birch or Vinessa Shaw, who played Dani and Allison respectively in the original “Hocus Pocus.”
“Hocus Pocus 2” is set to premiere on Disney+ in Fall 2022.