#Doug Jones Is Returning For Hocus Pocus 2, More Cast Members Added

Disney’s announcement doesn’t make it clear whether Jones will actually be returning as William “Billy” Butcherson, the undead lover of Winifred Sanderson, or whether he’ll be playing a new character. However, it would make a lot of sense to bring back a fan favorite like Billy, who was last seen settling back into his grave for another long snooze. Though Jones had very few lines in the original “Hocus Pocus,” his physical performance as the shambling, clumsy zombie with a detachable head made him one of the most memorable elements of the movie (and when he did finally gain the ability to speak, he certainly made the most of it).

Actresses Whitney Peak (“Molly’s Game”), Lilia Buckingham (“Crown Lake”), and Belissa Escobedo (“American Horror Stories”) are presumably playing the three young woman who accidentally summon the Sanderson sisters back from the grave. Other exciting additions include “Ted Lasso” star Hannah Waddingham and comedy veteran Tony Hale (“Arrested Development”), while Sam Richardson’s (“Veep,” “I Think You Should Leave”) involvement in the movie was already known.

The performances from Midler, Najimy, Parker, and Jones were a key part of what made “Hocus Pocus” so entertaining and memorable, and it’s a promising sign that these four cast members are returning for the sequel. Billy might not be happy about being woken up all over again, though!

“Hocus Pocus 2” is set to release in Fall 2022 on Disney+.