Evan Rachel Wood Says She Was ‘Recast’ in Practical Magic 2: “I Offered My Services”

Evan Rachel Wood has revealed that she won’t be returning for Practical Magic 2—and not by choice.

The 37-year-old actress, who played Kylie Owens, the eldest daughter of Sandra Bullock’s character Sally Owens in the original 1998 cult classic, took to Instagram Stories to clear the air following repeated fan inquiries about her absence in the upcoming sequel.

“I was not asked to come back and be in the Practical Magic sequel. I offered my services, even if it was one scene or one line. I was told they are recasting,” Wood wrote.

“I am sorry to disappoint the fans. It was not in my control or my choice. I would have happily rejoined my sisters.”

Bullock and Kidman Are Back—But Not Everyone Is

While Wood won’t be reprising her role, the film is still welcoming back several original cast members. Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman are confirmed to return as witchy sisters Sally and Gillian Owens. Dianne Wiest and Stockard Channing are also on board once again as the quirky aunts who raised them.

New faces joining the Owens family saga include Maisie Williams, Xolo Maridueña, Joey King, Solly McLeod, and Lee Pace—hinting at a generational shift in the magical universe.

A Sequel Rooted in the Source

Producer Denise Di Novi has assured fans that Practical Magic 2 will stay loyal to the heart of the original, drawing heavily from Alice Hoffman’s 2021 novel The Book of Magic, the final installment in her beloved Owens family series.

“I think [fans are] going to be very pleased,” Di Novi told Entertainment Weekly. “We’re going to be very faithful. We’re [aware of] how important those characters and that movie are to so many people. We’re not going to reinvent the wheel.”

She added that the sequel will honor the original characters, timeline, and story while exploring the magical family’s evolution into the present day.

Still in Early Stages

The sequel is currently in development, with original screenwriter Akiva Goldsman attached once again. A specific release date hasn’t been announced, but filming is expected to begin in 2025.

Despite not being invited back, Evan Rachel Wood’s gracious tone and willingness to return have sparked fan reactions online, with many calling for her inclusion in at least a cameo role.

Whether or not the magic finds a way to bring her back remains to be seen.