Actor Sam Richardson has addressed the possibility of his character, Gilbert, returning for Hocus Pocus 3. Disney recently confirmed that they are working on the third movie in the Hocus Pocus franchise, following the success of Hocus Pocus 2 in 2022. The original film, Hocus Pocus, was released in 1993 and gained a cult following. While the main cast, including Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, reprised their roles as the Sanderson sisters in the sequel, Hocus Pocus 2 introduced new characters like Gilbert, who unexpectedly turned out to be a villain.
During an interview at TheWrap’s premiere of The Afterparty season 2, Richardson discussed the possibility of returning for Hocus Pocus 3. While he didn’t confirm his character’s return, it is understandable as the movie is still in early stages of development. However, he expressed his interest in reprising his role as the surprise villain.
As Hocus Pocus 3 has only recently been given the green light by Disney, not much is known about the project. The return of the Sanderson sisters is expected, as they have shown their interest in coming back. How they will return is uncertain, considering the events of Hocus Pocus 2, which concluded with them going to the afterlife. The sequel did hint at their potential return with the presence of another Black Flame Candle in Gilbert’s shop.
Other original cast members, such as Omri Katz, Vinessa Shaw, and Jason Marsden, have expressed their desire to return, but Disney has not approached them yet. It is also unclear if Doug Jones will reprise his role as Billy Butcherson, as his character also went to the afterlife. The status of Whitney Peak, Lilia Buckingham, and Belessa Escobedo, who portrayed new characters in Hocus Pocus 2, remains unknown.
If Richardson returns as Gilbert in Hocus Pocus 3, it will be interesting to see if his character maintains his villainous nature or has learned from his past actions. Audiences enjoyed the dynamic between Gilbert and Billy, played by Doug Jones, and it would be exciting to see both characters given more screen time in the upcoming movie.
In summary, while the details of Hocus Pocus 3 are still limited, fans eagerly await news of the returning cast and how the story will continue to unfold in this highly anticipated sequel.