Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman are set to reunite on the big screen in September in the long-awaited sequel to 1998’s “Practical Magic,” but one of their best-known co-stars will be noticeably absent.

Evan Rachel Wood ― who starred in the original film as Kylie Owens, the free-spirited daughter of Bullock’s character ― won’t appear in “Practical Magic 2.” The character of Kylie Owens is instead portrayed by Joey King, an Emmy and Golden Globe nominee for Hulu’s “The Act.”

Speaking to Entertainment Tonight in an interview Tuesday, Wood shared a few thoughts on why she believes the creative team behind “Practical Magic 2” opted to go with a different actor.

“I read the book, and it seems like they’re not following the book,” she said. “I think in the book, it would’ve made sense to bring me back. I think in the way they’re redoing it and approaching it, it didn’t make sense.”

“But it is sad, because you know we bonded with that cast so much as children,” Wood continued. “And so to miss out on the opportunity to look at that cast and look at that house as an adult and see the history in our eyes is something that can’t be faked. So I’m sad that doesn’t get to exist, especially for the fans.”

In addition to Bullock and Kidman, returning cast members in “Practical Magic 2” include actors Stockard Channing and Dianne Wiest. Wood, whose recent credits include “What We Do in the Shadows” and “Weird: The Al Yankovic Story,” confirmed on social media last year that she hadn’t been invited back.

“I am getting asked about this a lot, so l’ll just clear it up now; I was not asked to come back and be in the ‘Practical Magic’ sequel,” she wrote on her Instagram Stories at the time, per The Hollywood Reporter. “l offered my services, even if it was one scene or one line. I was told they are recasting. I am sorry to disappoint the fans. It was not in my control or my choice. I would have happily rejoined my sisters.”

Based on Alice Hoffman’s 1995 fantasy novel of the same name, “Practical Magic” starred Bullock and Kidman as Sally and Gillian Owens, two Massachusetts women who are descended from a long line of witches. Together, the sisters must use their magic to destroy the evil spirit of Gillian’s abusive boyfriend, Jimmy (Goran Višnjić), before it kills them.

Upon its release, “Practical Magic” drew mixed reviews and was considered a box office disappointment. Over the years, the film has become a cult favorite, with fans tuning in for repeat Halloween viewings. In 2021, Hoffman published “The Book of Magic,” whetting viewers’ appetites for a cinematic sequel.

In her ET chat, Wood said she has “really fond memories of being in the original” and assured viewers she had no ill will toward King or any of her former co-stars.

“I wish them all the best, and obviously wish Joey the best,” she said, “and hope she had a great time.”

By entering your email and clicking Sign Up, you're agreeing to let us send you customized marketing messages about us and our advertising partners. You are also agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.