Hocus Pocus Cast Now and Then: A Bewitching Look at Their Careers

Released in 1993, Hocus Pocus has become a beloved Halloween classic. The film follows Max Dennison, a teenager who unwittingly resurrects the Sanderson sisters, three witches who were executed in the 17th century. As Max, his sister Dani, and his friend Allison race against time to stop the witches from becoming immortal, audiences are treated to a fun and spooky adventure. But what has the Hocus Pocus cast been up to now and then? This article takes a look at the Hocus Pocus cast now and then, exploring their careers before, during, and after the film. We’ll delve into what each actor has been doing since their time in Salem, Massachusetts, and discover how their careers have evolved. The Hocus Pocus cast now and then is a fascinating topic for fans of the movie.

The Sanderson Sisters

Bette Midler (Winifred Sanderson)

Bette Midler, who played the iconic Winifred Sanderson, was already a well-established star before Hocus Pocus. Known for her singing, acting, and comedy, Midler’s career spanned decades. Before Hocus Pocus, she starred in films like The Rose (1979) and Beaches (1988). Her portrayal of Winifred Sanderson cemented her status as a pop culture icon.

Now, Midler continues to be a force in the entertainment industry. She has released several albums, performed on Broadway, and starred in numerous films and television shows. Her recent credits include roles in The Addams Family (2019) and The Glorias (2020). She also reprised her role as Winifred Sanderson in Hocus Pocus 2 (2022), much to the delight of fans worldwide.

Sarah Jessica Parker (Sarah Sanderson)

Sarah Jessica Parker, who played the ditzy and alluring Sarah Sanderson, was also gaining recognition before Hocus Pocus. She had appeared in films like Footloose (1984) and L.A. Story (1991). Her role in Hocus Pocus helped to further establish her as a versatile actress.

Now, Parker is best known for her role as Carrie Bradshaw in the HBO series Sex and the City. The show’s success catapulted her to international stardom, and she has since reprised the role in two films and the sequel series And Just Like That…. Beyond Sex and the City, Parker has continued to work in film and television, and she also reprised her role as Sarah Sanderson in Hocus Pocus 2. [See also: Sarah Jessica Parker Movies]

Kathy Najimy (Mary Sanderson)

Kathy Najimy, who played the quirky and loyal Mary Sanderson, had a successful career in comedy before Hocus Pocus. She was known for her roles in films like Sister Act (1992) and Soapdish (1991). Her comedic timing and physical humor made her a perfect fit for the role of Mary Sanderson.

Now, Najimy continues to work in film, television, and voice acting. She has appeared in shows like Veep and Younger, and she has lent her voice to animated projects like King of the Hill and BoJack Horseman. Like her co-stars, she also reprised her role as Mary Sanderson in Hocus Pocus 2. The Hocus Pocus cast now and then wouldn’t be complete without her!

The Teen Heroes

Omri Katz (Max Dennison)

Omri Katz, who played the skeptical teenager Max Dennison, was a familiar face on television before Hocus Pocus. He had starred in the series Eerie, Indiana and made appearances on shows like Dallas. His role in Hocus Pocus gave him wider recognition.

Now, Katz has largely stepped away from acting. While he had a few roles after Hocus Pocus, he eventually transitioned to a career in the hair and beauty industry. He has remained relatively private, but fans of Hocus Pocus still remember him fondly for his portrayal of Max. The Hocus Pocus cast now and then shows different paths for each actor.

Vinessa Shaw (Allison Watts)

Vinessa Shaw, who played Max’s love interest, Allison Watts, had a budding career before Hocus Pocus. She had appeared in films like A Home of Our Own (1993). Her role in Hocus Pocus helped to launch her into more prominent roles.

Now, Shaw continues to work steadily in film and television. She has appeared in films like Eyes Wide Shut (1999), The Hills Have Eyes (2006), and Side Effects (2013). She has also had recurring roles on television shows like Ray Donovan. Shaw’s career has been marked by diverse roles and consistent work. The Hocus Pocus cast now and then is a great example of how different actors have had varied careers.

Thora Birch (Dani Dennison)

Thora Birch, who played Max’s precocious younger sister, Dani Dennison, was a child actor with several credits before Hocus Pocus. She had appeared in films like Purple People Eater (1988) and All I Want for Christmas (1991). Her performance in Hocus Pocus was particularly memorable.

Now, Birch has continued to work in film and television, though her career has had its ups and downs. She received critical acclaim for her roles in films like American Beauty (1999) and Ghost World (2001). More recently, she has appeared in shows like Colony and The Walking Dead. The Hocus Pocus cast now and then highlights the challenges and successes of actors in the industry.

Supporting Cast

Sean Murray (Thackery Binx)

Sean Murray provided the voice for Thackery Binx, the boy who was turned into a black cat. While his voice was used for the cat, the human form of Thackery Binx was played by another actor, James Marsden.

Now, Sean Murray is best known for his role as Timothy McGee on the hit CBS series NCIS. He has been a series regular since 2003 and has become a beloved character on the show. The Hocus Pocus cast now and then showcases Murray’s successful transition to a long-running television role. [See also: NCIS Cast Then and Now]

Larry Bagby (Ernie/Ice)

Larry Bagby played Ernie, also known as Ice, one of the bullies who harass Max and Dani. Bagby had several small roles before Hocus Pocus.

Now, Bagby continues to work as an actor and musician. He has appeared in films like Walk the Line (2005) and The Sinner (2007), and he has also released several albums. His career has been diverse, spanning both acting and music. The Hocus Pocus cast now and then illustrates Bagby’s continued dedication to his craft.

Tobias Jelinek (Jay)

Tobias Jelinek played Jay, the other bully who terrorizes Max and Dani. Then, Jelinek, like Bagby, had smaller roles before Hocus Pocus.

Now, Jelinek has had a steady career in television, with numerous guest appearances in popular shows. He has been in shows such as Stranger Things, Arrested Development, and Shameless. The Hocus Pocus cast now and then demonstrates Jelinek’s continued presence in the entertainment industry.

The Enduring Legacy of Hocus Pocus

Hocus Pocus has remained a beloved film for nearly three decades, thanks to its charming story, memorable characters, and Halloween-themed fun. The careers of the Hocus Pocus cast have taken different paths, but the film remains a significant part of their legacies. The Hocus Pocus cast now and then is a testament to the enduring appeal of the film and its impact on popular culture.

The Hocus Pocus cast now and then shows how careers change. Some have continued acting prominently, others have shifted careers, and some have become more private. Regardless, the film continues to be a highlight in their careers. The magic of Hocus Pocus continues to enchant audiences, and the Hocus Pocus cast now and then remains a source of fascination for fans old and new. The legacy of the Hocus Pocus cast is secure, and their work continues to be enjoyed by generations. The Hocus Pocus cast now and then proves that the film is more than just a movie; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Thinking about the Hocus Pocus cast now and then brings back fond memories for many. The Hocus Pocus cast now and then is a topic that continues to generate interest. The Hocus Pocus cast now and then is a captivating look at the lives of the actors who brought this classic film to life. Examining the Hocus Pocus cast now and then reveals the diverse paths they have taken.

The release of Hocus Pocus 2 has only amplified interest in the original film and its cast. The return of Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as the Sanderson sisters has been a major draw for audiences, reigniting the magic of the original while introducing the story to a new generation. Their continued success underscores the lasting impact of Hocus Pocus and the talented individuals who made it a classic.