Sam Richardson addresses whether his surprise villain, Gilbert, will return for Hocus Pocus 3. Disney recently confirmed that a third movie in the franchise was in development after the success of Hocus Pocus 2 in 2022. The Disney+ release marked the long-awaited sequel to the cult classic Halloween movie, Hocus Pocus, which first premiered in 1993. While Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy returned as the iconic Sanderson sisters, as did Doug Jones’ Billy Butcherson, Hocus Pocus 2 introduced a new cast of modern characters, among them including Gilbert, who proved to be an unlikely villain.
While speaking to TheWrap at the red carpet premiere of The Afterparty season 2, Richardson addressed the potential of his return in Hocus Pocus 3. Richardson didn’t officially confirm Gilbert’s return, which isn’t surprising considering that the movie is still in very early development, though he did confirm he would like to return as his surprise sequel villain. See what Richardson said in the quotes and video below:
I certainly hope so, I had such a great time playing Gilbert in Hocus Pocus 2. I’d go and play on that set any day of the week. You just tell me, I’ll be there.
Everything We Know About Hocus Pocus 3 So Far
Given that Hocus Pocus 3 was only just recently greenlit by Disney, not many details are known about the project, though the Sanderson sister actors are expected to make their return, especially as the trio have expressed their interest in doing so. How they will return is currently unclear, especially given Hocus Pocus 2 ended with them finally going to the afterlife. The sequel did, however, end with a tease of another Black Flame Candle in Gilbert’s shop, potentially establishing their return in the third movie.
In addition to the main trio, original stars Omri Katz, Vinessa Shaw and Jason Marsden have all expressed their hopes to return for Hocus Pocus 3, though have indicated they have yet to be approached by Disney to do so. Doug Jones’ return is similarly unclear to the Sanderson sisters given Billy Butcherson also went to the afterlife thanks to Winifred’s spells officially being undone. Additionally, it’s unknown if Whitney Peak, Lilia Buckingham and Belessa Escobedo will reprise their Hocus Pocus 2 roles, though the sequel did seemingly set them up as the better versions of the Sanderson sisters.
Should Richardson return as Gilbert for Hocus Pocus 3, it would be interesting to see whether he retains his somewhat villainous nature from the 2022 sequel or if he’s learned from his actions. Given many audiences enjoyed the dynamic between him and Jones’ Billy, it would be interesting to see both characters get more valuable screen time with their returns in the next movie.
Source: TheWrap
