Fans gathered at Hollywood Forever Cemetery expecting an evening filled with nostalgia, witchy vibes and a screening of the beloved 1998 fantasy classic Practical Magic. Instead, they were treated to a surprise that few saw coming. Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman walked onto the stage before the film began, delighting the audience and turning the special screening into an unforgettable celebration of the franchise ahead of Practical Magic 2.
The unexpected reunion also became the perfect opportunity to officially welcome a new generation of Owens women. With the sequel set to arrive in theatres next month, the event offered fans their first public celebration of the returning stars alongside the newest members joining the magical family.
Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman Reunite With Fans
The surprise appearance took place during Cinespia’s annual outdoor screening series at Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles. As the crowd erupted in cheers, Sandra Bullock, who famously played Sally Owens in the original film, joked about the unusual venue while embracing the spooky atmosphere surrounding the event.
Addressing the audience, Bullock said, “Thank you so much for coming out tonight. Perfect movie to show in a cemetery. We should also thank the spirits that are floating around us as well because you’re on their seats.” Her playful remark perfectly matched the supernatural charm that has made Practical Magic a fan favorite for nearly three decades.
Nicole Kidman, who returns as Gillian “Gilly” Owens in the sequel, also thanked the devoted fanbase for keeping the franchise alive over the years. She told the audience, “Thank you for all your support for getting this 2nd film made that’s coming to you.” The comment drew loud applause, reflecting the excitement surrounding the long-awaited follow-up.
New Owens Sisters Join the Coven
The celebration didn’t end with Bullock and Kidman’s appearance. The two actresses then introduced Joey King and Maisie Williams, who play Sally Owens’ adult daughters in Practical Magic 2. Carrying margaritas onto the stage, the pair received a warm welcome as they officially joined the expanding magical family.
Raising a glass to the audience, Kidman declared, “To the coven,” inviting fans dressed in flowing black robes, pointed witch hats and vintage Practical Magic shirts to celebrate together. Joey King then shared her excitement about becoming part of the beloved franchise, saying, “Maisie and I are so excited to be joining the coven as Kylie and Antonia. We really hope you enjoy the new movie as much as we did making it.”
The event highlighted the strong connection the original film continues to have with audiences. Although Practical Magic received mixed reviews upon its release in 1998, it gradually earned cult-classic status through home viewing and streaming, building a loyal fanbase that has waited decades for the Owens sisters to return.
What Practical Magic 2 Will Be About
Directed by Susanne Bier, Practical Magic 2 picks up 28 years after the events of the original story. Sally Owens has settled into a quieter life, while Gillian continues to embrace her free-spirited personality. However, the centuries-old Owens family curse refuses to stay buried and begins affecting the next generation.
The story follows Sally’s daughter Kylie, played by Joey King, after tragedy strikes the man she loves. Determined to end the curse once and for all, Kylie sets out on a dangerous journey that forces Sally and Gillian to reunite in order to protect their family before dark magic consumes another generation. Xolo Maridueña, Lee Pace, Stockard Channing and Dianne Wiest also star in the sequel, with Channing and Wiest reprising their roles as the beloved aunts, Frances and Jet Owens.
The screenplay has been written by Akiva Goldsman and Georgia Pritchett, adapting Alice Hoffman’s 2021 novel The Book of Magic, the fourth installment in the author’s Practical Magic book series. Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman also return as producers alongside Denise DiNovi, continuing their creative involvement beyond acting.
Warner Bros. has scheduled Practical Magic 2 for an exclusive theatrical release on September 11, nearly three decades after the original enchanted audiences. Judging by the emotional response at the Los Angeles screening, the magic surrounding the Owens family remains as powerful as ever, and fans appear more than ready to return to their spellbinding world.
