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In the world of cinema, some movies achieve legendary status long after their initial release. “Hocus Pocus” is one such film. This 1993 American fantasy comedy, directed by Kenny Ortega, may not have been an instant blockbuster, but it has since become a beloved classic. Its quirky plot and memorable cast have etched it into the hearts of viewers around the world. But what happened to the actors and actresses who brought this magical story to life? Let’s take a journey through time and discover where they are now.
Hocus Pocus: The Magic of the Original
Before we dive into the present, let’s revisit the past. “Hocus Pocus” revolves around a teenager, Max Dennison, who accidentally resurrects three witches in Salem, Massachusetts, on Halloween night. The witches, portrayed by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, embark on a comedic adventure, creating chaos along the way.
Upon its release, the film didn’t receive a warm critical reception, and it wasn’t a box office hit. However, fate had something else in store for “Hocus Pocus.” Over the years, it became a Halloween tradition, airing annually on television channels in October. This, combined with the fervor surrounding Halloween itself, transformed “Hocus Pocus” into a cult classic.
The film’s enduring popularity led to the creation of a franchise. This includes a sequel novelization, a theme park attraction, a TV special, a short film, and even a Lego set. “Hocus Pocus 2” was released on Disney+ in September 2022, and a third film was announced in June 2023. The magic of “Hocus Pocus” endures.
Hocus Pocus: Where Are They Now?
Now, let’s embark on a journey to find out what the cast of “Hocus Pocus” has been up to since the film’s release in 1993.
Actor |
Character |
| Bette Midler | Winifred “Winnie” Sanderson |
| Sarah Jessica Parker | Sarah Sanderson |
| Kathy Najimy | Mary Sanderson |
| Omri Katz | Maximilian “Max” Dennison |
| Thora Birch | Danielle “Dani” Dennison |
| Vinessa Shaw | Allison Watts |
| Charles Rocket | David “Dave” Dennison |
| Stephanie Faracy | Jennifer “Jenny” Dennison |
| Sean Murray | Thackery Binx |
| Jason Marsden | Voice of Thackery Binx |
| Kathleen Freeman | Miss Olin |
| Doug Jones | William “Billy” Butcherson |
| Amanda Shepherd | Emily Binx |
| Larry Bagby | Ernie “Ice” |
| Tobias Jelinek | Jay |
| Steve Voboril | Elijah |
| Norbert Weisser | Mr. Binx |
| Joe Malone | Singer at the party |
| Garry Marshall | Master Devil (uncredited) |
| Penny Marshall | Medusa Lady (uncredited) |
Bette Midler (Winifred Sanderson)
Then: Bette Midler starred in “Hocus Pocus” as Winifred Sanderson and had already made a name for herself with various movies and stage productions.
Now: Bette Midler’s star power hasn’t dimmed. She won a Tony Award for her role in “Hello, Dolly!” and even appeared in TV shows like “The Politician.” Her legendary status endures.
Sarah Jessica Parker (Sarah Sanderson)
Then: Sarah Jessica Parker played Sarah Sanderson in “Hocus Pocus.”
Now: Sarah found immense success in “Sex and the City” and its subsequent movies. Beyond acting, she launched her own footwear line, SJP Collection. And yes, she returned as Carrie Bradshaw in the “Sex and the City” sequel series.
Kathy Najimy (Mary Sanderson)
Then: Kathy Najimy portrayed Mary Sanderson in “Hocus Pocus.”
Now: Kathy continued her journey in the world of acting, appearing in various TV shows and movies. She even voiced Peggy Hill on “King of the Hill” and reprised her role as Mary Sanderson in the Hocus Pocus sequel.
Omri Katz (Max Dennison)
Then: Omri Katz played Max in “Hocus Pocus.”
Now: Omri took a different path. He appeared in a few projects before retiring from acting in 2002. These days, he runs a cannabis company in Los Angeles and remains open to future Hocus Pocus projects.
Thora Birch (Dani Dennison)
Then: Thora Birch starred as Dani in “Hocus Pocus.”
Now: Thora took a break from acting in 2012 but returned with roles in TV shows like “Colony” and “The Walking Dead.” She also starred in a Lifetime movie about Gabby Petito’s disappearance and even directed films.
Vinessa Shaw (Allison)
Then: Vinessa Shaw portrayed Allison in “Hocus Pocus.”
Now: Vinessa continued her acting career, appearing in various TV shows and movies. She even spoke about her character’s possible future in a Hocus Pocus sequel.
Sean Murray (Thackery Binx – Human)
Then: Sean Murray played the human Thackery Binx in “Hocus Pocus.”
Now: Sean Murray’s career has thrived. He’s known for his recurring role in “NCIS,” which he still stars in.
The Supporting Enchantment
The cast of “Hocus Pocus” is not limited to the central characters. Many supporting actors have gone on to find success in their own right:
– Tobias Jelinek (Jay): Tobias has made appearances in popular TV shows like “Stranger Things” and “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.”
– Larry Bagby (Ernie “Ice”): Larry appeared in several films and TV shows, including “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “The Young and the Restless.” He is also a musician.
– Doug Jones (Billy Butcherson): Doug starred in numerous films and TV shows, including “The Shape of Water” and “Star Trek: Discovery.” He reprised his role as Billy for the Hocus Pocus sequel.
– Amanda Shepherd (Emily Binx): Amanda’s role in “Hocus Pocus” was her only acting role. She is now a language channeler and healer.
The Legacy of “Hocus Pocus”
Despite the passing of time, the enchantment of “Hocus Pocus” and its cast lives on. The movie continues to captivate audiences, and the actors and actresses involved have found their own paths, leaving indelible marks in the world of entertainment.
Hocus Pocus Where Are They Now – FAQ
1. What is “Hocus Pocus”?
“Hocus Pocus” is a 1993 American fantasy comedy film directed by Kenny Ortega, featuring three witches resurrected in Salem, Massachusetts, on Halloween night.
2. Why did “Hocus Pocus” gain popularity despite initial mixed reviews?
Annual airings on TV channels during October and the Halloween tradition turned the film into a cult classic over the years.
3. Is there a sequel to “Hocus Pocus”?
Yes, a sequel titled “Hocus Pocus 2” was released on Disney+ in September 2022, and a third film was announced in June 2023.
4. What are the main characters’ names and the actors who portrayed them in “Hocus Pocus”?
Winifred (Bette Midler), Sarah (Sarah Jessica Parker), Mary (Kathy Najimy), Max (Omri Katz), Dani (Thora Birch), Allison (Vinessa Shaw), and others.
5. Where can I watch “Hocus Pocus”?
“Hocus Pocus” is available for streaming on various platforms, including Disney+.
The magic of “Hocus Pocus” and its cast endures, weaving a timeless spell that continues to enchant audiences.
