Hocus Pocus 2 screenwriter explains why one key cameo was cut from the sequel. After 1993’s Halloween hit Hocus Pocus was released three decades ago, the Sanderson Sisters returned to Salem, Massachusetts, to again create witchery chaos in Hocus Pocus 2. Although the original three witches returned and were portrayed by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, the remaining original cast were excluded from Hocus Pocus 2.
Speaking with Entertainment Weekly, screenwriter Jen D’Angelo explains why Hocus Pocus 2 cut a Max cameo. The writer revealed that the initial plans included a Max cameo in the sequel, which involved “a quick moment with the Sanderson Sisters.” Ultimately, this Max cameo was cut, along with a cameo from Hocus Pocus bully characters Jay and Ice, since the script was being trimmed down, calling it “a tough decision.” Check out the full quote from D’Angelo below:
“There was a version where Max had a cameo. We love these characters so much and they’re so iconic that if we do see them, we want them to really have a reason for being in the story, not just to be able to see them and check it off the list.
There was also a version where Jay and Ice came back, because I have such a soft spot for them. I find them very emotional also. Even though they’re these cartoonish bullies, they’re sweet. They get a real punishment at the end: they’re locked in the cages for how long? They’ve been humbled. One of the jokes that naturally had to fall out that I was so sad to lose was that Ice and Jay were handing out candy, and they saw the Sanderson Sisters fly past. You think they’re going to jump in and save the day, but they immediately run and hide because they’re cowards.”
Will Hocus Pocus 3 Feature Any Kids from Hocus Pocus 1?
While the Sanderson Sisters are at the heart of Hocus Pocus, the first movie also relied on central characters Max, Dani, and Allison. Unfortunately, the trio did not return in Hocus Pocus 2 after the sequel went in a different direction. It reinvented the story in modern-day Salem as the Sanderson Sisters were reincarnated again. This dismayed many viewers, who were hoping to see the trio all grown up in Hocus Pocus 2 and even tackle some theories, such as Allison being a possible witch.
With this new information, the Hocus Pocus 2 team was seemingly aware of the fan service they could provide if they included the original characters from the first installment. Now that Hocus Pocus 3 has been confirmed, the door is open again for an appearance from the original 1993 Hocus Pocus stars. Both Vinessa Shaw, who played Allison, and Omri Katz, who played Max, have said they would return to the Hocus Pocus universe if asked back for the next sequel.
With the Hocus Pocus 3 script still in development, a return is still possible for the now-grown kids. The next installment may also focus more heavily on Winifred’s upcoming journey after the writer teased another possible revenge plot. This emphasis makes Max and other cameos more dubious, but given the original plans for Hocus Pocus 2, it is still possible.
