Evan Rachel Wood expresses disappointment over being recast in ‘Practical Magic 2’ while thanking Joey King for reaching out.
Evan Rachel Wood has publicly addressed her disappointment regarding the casting decisions in the upcoming sequel, Practical Magic 2. Announced by Deadline on September 2, 2026, the actress expressed her feelings in an Instagram Story, highlighting that she wasn’t contacted about reprising her role as Kylie Owens.
Although Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman will return as sisters Sally and Gillian Owens, Wood's previous role has been recast, with Joey King stepping in to play Kylie. Wood noted, "I really appreciated Joey King reaching out to me because no one who worked on the original film did. She's a sweetheart."
The sequel to the 1998 film Practical Magic, which was based on Alice Hoffman's novel and directed by Griffin Dunne, continues the story 25 years after the original. The narrative will follow the Owens family as they delve into their magical heritage. The original film featured Wood alongside Bullock and Kidman, who became iconic for their performances as witches navigating family challenges.
In the original, Wood portrayed Kylie Owens, the daughter of Sally, who, along with her sister Antonia, faced supernatural threats tied to a family curse. The recasting of the daughters aligns with the storyline's progression as their characters have aged, but Wood’s absence has resonated with fans and stirred discussions on social media.
Prior to this public acknowledgment, Wood expressed her sadness about not being asked to return for the sequel. During the premiere of The Shards, Wood remarked on the bond formed with the cast during her childhood and emphasized her desire to revisit that connection as an adult. She stated, "It's sad ... especially for the fans."
Additionally, Wood clarified in previous Instagram posts that she offered to return to the franchise, even for a small role, but was informed that the decision had been made to recast.
Joey King’s casting has received mixed reactions from fans, with many expressing support for the young actress. While acknowledging the changes in casting, viewers are curious to see how the new dynamic will play out in the sequel. King, recognized for her versatility and charm, seeks to honor the legacy of Wood's original portrayal while carving her own space in the beloved franchise.
As the release date approaches, fans remain engaged in discussions about the film’s direction and how it will respect the original's spirit while introducing new elements.
Evan Rachel Wood's candid remarks about Practical Magic 2 shine a light on the challenges and emotions involved in recasting beloved characters. Her gratitude towards Joey King for reaching out reflects a sense of camaraderie, even amidst disappointment. As the sequel, featuring returning stars Bullock and Kidman, aims to capture the magic of the original while exploring new storylines, the audience's reception will be crucial in determining its success.
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