Evan Rachel Wood, who played Sally Owens’ daughter in the original 1998 romantic fantasy film, has been passed over for the upcoming sequel. The actress, 37, revealed on social media that her character, Kylie Owens, has been recast despite her offer to return.
The new film is set to bring back original stars Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock as sisters Sally and Gillian Owens, but Wood’s character will now be portrayed by someone else.
In a post on her Instagram Stories, Wood explained, “I am getting asked about this a lot, so I’ll just clear it up now; 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 continued, “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.”
According to Deadline, the role of Kylie Owens has been given to 25-year-old actress Joey King, known for her role in Hulu’s The Act. King will join a renewed cast that also includes Game of Thrones star Maisie Williams.
The sequel, which is expected to premiere in 2026, has been a topic of much speculation. In February, Nicole Kidman, 58, confirmed that the film was “moving ahead rapidly” but remained tight-lipped about the script and other details. When pressed, she cryptically told Variety, “I’m not answering anymore, you can ask Sandy,” referring to her co-star, Sandra Bullock.
Last year, Kidman officially announced her return to the franchise, telling People magazine, “Yes I will be in it. And Sandy will be in it. And that’s that.” She also hinted at the creative direction, noting that there was “a lot more to tell” and that they had “found a way in.”
A statement from the filmmakers confirmed the casting news, expressing their excitement to bring the Owens family back to the big screen with the new actors: “Twenty-five years ago, Sally, Gillian, Aunt Jet and Aunt Franny flew off the pages of Alice Hoffman’s beloved novel and into theaters around the world, and we are thrilled to bring the Owens family back to the big screen with Joey, Lee, Maisie, Solly and Xolo joining the next chapter in our story.”
