4 hours ago
Evan Rachel Wood Says She Was “Not Asked to Come Back” for Practical Magic 2
READ TIME: 2 MIN.
Evan Rachel Wood is setting the record straight on Practical Magic 2—and her absence from it.
The actor, who’s earned acclaim not just for her performances but also as a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, took to Instagram Stories on July 11 to shut down speculation about her return to the beloved witchy franchise. “I was not asked to come back and be in the #PracticalMagic sequel. I offered my services, even if it was one scene or one line,” she wrote. “I was told they are re-casting. I am sorry to disappoint the fans. It was not in my control or my choice. I would have happily rejoined my sisters.”
Wood’s portrayal of Kylie Owens—daughter of Sandra Bullock’s Sally Owens—in the 1998 cult classic left a lasting impression, particularly on LGBTQ+ fans who saw their own experiences mirrored in the film’s themes of otherness, found family, and resilient womanhood. Her character helped anchor the next generation of the Owens legacy, making her absence in the sequel feel, for many, like more than just a missed cameo—it’s a missed connection to the soul of the original.
Hollywood has long wrestled with how to handle legacy characters in follow-ups. But when those roles are tied to openly queer actors and deeply personal representation for marginalized communities, the stakes feel even higher. Wood’s statement struck a graceful tone, despite the clear disappointment: “I would have happily rejoined my sisters,” she said, underscoring her deep affection for the film and its impact.
Directed by Susanne Bier, Practical Magic 2 is scheduled to hit screens on September 18, 2026. The new installment sees the return of original stars Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman, Dianne Wiest, and Stockard Channing, while welcoming a fresh wave of talent—Joey King, Lee Pace, Maisie Williams, Xolo Maridueña, and Solly McLeod—hinting at a generational handoff in the story. King is set to play a grown-up version of Bullock’s daughter, further reinforcing that the next chapter belongs to a younger set of witches.
Still, the decision to recast—or simply not invite back—a character like Kylie Owens hasn’t gone unnoticed. Fans have voiced concerns about what that means for continuity, legacy, and authentic representation. For many queer viewers, Wood’s presence was more than nostalgic; it was affirming. Her absence feels like an erasure of something sacred.
Social media lit up following Wood’s post, with messages of support pouring in from fans and LGBTQ+ advocates alike. Many pointed to her open bisexual identity and her decades-long advocacy as reasons why her inclusion would’ve carried real meaning. Wood’s response—measured, kind, and clear—has been widely praised. In an industry that often responds to controversy with silence or PR spin, her honesty stood out.
As production on Practical Magic 2 moves forward, the conversation around who gets invited into legacy franchises—and who gets left out—is only growing louder. Studios are being reminded that inclusion isn’t just about casting someone new; it’s also about honoring those who helped lay the groundwork. Whether this sequel will live up to the original remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: for many fans, the real magic lies in visibility, connection, and care.
