Practical Magic 2: Sequel Confirmed - What We Know So Far

Evan Rachel Wood has confirmed she will not appear in “Practical Magic 2,” telling fans that the upcoming sequel diverges too sharply from the source material. The actress, who originated the role of Kylie Owens in the 1998 film, said in a statement that the new script “is not following the book” and that she therefore chose to step away from the project.

Wood’s decision adds a note of tension to the long-awaited follow-up, which is set to hit theaters on September 9, 2026, under the direction of Susanne Bier. The original film, based on Alice Hoffman’s 1995 novel, became a cult favorite for its blend of family drama, dark fantasy, and romantic comedy. While the core story of the Owens sisters and their inherited curse remains intact in the sequel’s official overview, Wood’s comments suggest that the adaptation has taken significant liberties with the plot.

Wood Explains Her Decision

In her announcement, Wood expressed admiration for Hoffman’s work and for the original film’s cast and crew, but she made clear that her loyalty lies with the source material. “I love the world of the Owens family, but the story being told in this sequel is not the one from the book,” she said. “For me, that was a dealbreaker.” Wood did not elaborate on specific changes, but her remarks have already sparked debate among fans who have long hoped for a faithful continuation of Hoffman’s narrative.

Wood played Kylie Owens - the younger of Sally and Gillian’s daughters - in the first movie, a role she took on as a child actor. In the sequel, that character is now portrayed by Joey King, who was cast in a leading role alongside Maisie Williams, who plays Antonia Owens, the other sister. Neither Wood nor the studio has commented on whether she was offered a cameo or a different part, and representatives for Warner Bros. have not responded to requests for clarification.

What to Expect from “Practical Magic 2”

The official synopsis for “Practical Magic 2” promises a story in which the Owens sisters must confront the dark curse that threatens to unravel their family once and for all. Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman reprise their iconic roles as Sally and Gillian Owens, while Dianne Wiest and Stockard Channing return as the eccentric aunts, Jet and Frances. New additions to the ensemble include Xolo Maridueña and Lee Pace, though their characters have not been disclosed.

Director Susanne Bier, known for her work on “The Night Manager” and “Bird Box,” has described the sequel as a continuation that respects the spirit of the original while pushing the story forward. In earlier interviews, she emphasized the importance of honoring Hoffman’s literary foundation, but Wood’s exit indicates that some creative differences emerged during production.

The film has already wrapped principal photography, and early marketing materials have leaned heavily on nostalgia for the 1998 classic. Fan anticipation remains high, but Wood’s departure - and the reason behind it - has introduced a new variable into the conversation. For many, the question now is whether the sequel will satisfy those who cherished the novel’s precise magic.

As of now, no other original cast members have publicly echoed Wood’s concerns. Bullock and Kidman have remained silent on the matter, and the studio is expected to release a full trailer within the coming weeks. Wood, meanwhile, is set to appear in several independent projects and has said she wishes the “Practical Magic” team well, even as she chooses to “let this one go.”

Whether “Practical Magic 2” will win over book loyalists remains to be seen, but Wood’s principled stand has already ensured that the conversation around faithfulness in adaptation will follow the film into its September release.

Source: Hollywood Reporter