Will Hocus Pocus 3 Bring Back Thora Birch as Dani? Bette Midler Teases Script & Potential 2026 Halloween Release

The long-awaited “Hocus Pocus 3” is generating buzz as Bette Midler teases a “brilliant” script and a potential Halloween 2026 release. Fans are eagerly speculating whether Thora Birch will reprise her iconic role as Dani Dennison, a question that remains unanswered despite her openness to returning.

With the original child star now 43, nostalgia runs high for the beloved franchise, especially as “Hocus Pocus 2” continues to air on Freeform. As development officially moves forward, the Sanderson Sisters’ next adventure promises to reignite the magic that made the series a Halloween staple.

Will Hocus Pocus 3 Bring Back Thora Birch as Dani?

Rumors are swirling about Thora Birch’s potential return as Dani Dennison in Hocus Pocus 3. The original star, now 43, recently expressed enthusiasm for reprising her iconic role. While Disney hasn’t confirmed her involvement, Birch’s recent red carpet appearances have fans hopeful. Bette Midler’s cryptic social media posts and script teases further fuel speculation.

Birch last played Dani in 1993, and her return would bridge the gap between the original and sequel. Fans argue her character’s grown-up perspective could add depth to the Sanderson Sisters’ next adventure. However, logistical challenges—like aligning schedules—remain a hurdle.

Why Fans Are Obsessed with Dani’s Return

Dani’s sarcastic charm and sibling dynamic with Max (Omri Katz) made her a fan favorite. Social media polls show 78% of viewers want her back. Her absence in Hocus Pocus 2 was noted, especially since the sequel focused on new teen protagonists.

Bette Midler Calls Hocus Pocus 3 Script “Brilliant”—What We Know

Midler’s recent Watch What Happens Live appearance confirmed she’s read the script, praising its wit and originality. While plot details are under wraps, sources hint at time-travel elements linking past and present Salem. Midler’s excitement suggests the Sanderson Sisters’ chaos will escalate.

The script’s delay—two years after announcement—stems from rewrites to integrate fan feedback. Midler emphasized balancing nostalgia with new lore, like exploring Winifred’s spellbook origins.

Is Hocus Pocus 3 Aiming for a 2026 Halloween Release?

Insiders report Disney is targeting October 2026 to coincide with the original film’s 33rd anniversary. This aligns with Midler’s hint about “spooky surprises” in her social media countdowns. However, Sarah Jessica Parker’s vague updates about production delays leave room for skepticism.

Potential Roadblocks

• Coordinating the trio’s schedules (Midler, Parker, Kathy Najimy)
• CGI enhancements for magical sequences
• Striking a tone that appeals to multigenerational fans

How Hocus Pocus 2 Set Up the Sequel’s Plot

The 2022 sequel introduced a new generation of witches, hinting at unfinished business with the Sandersons. A post-credits scene showed Winifred’s spellbook glowing—an obvious sequel tease. Fans theorize Book’s sentience could resurrect older characters, including Dani’s brother Max.

Why Disney+ Needs Hocus Pocus 3 to Succeed

After mixed reactions to Hocus Pocus 2’s Disney+ debut, the studio aims to refine the formula. Analysts note the franchise’s merchandise sales justify continued investment. A theatrical release for Part 3 isn’t ruled out, capitalizing on the first film’s cult cinema screenings.