Original Practical Magic star Alexandra Artrip is addressing the sequel’s recasting controversy and asking fans to keep the conversation positive.
Artrip, 36, who played one of Sally Owens’ daughters in the 1998 film, shared an Instagram video on Thursday, September 3, after former costar Evan Rachel Wood spoke publicly about not being invited back for Practical Magic 2.
Artrip said she appreciates the support fans have shown toward both her and Wood, but she does not want that support to turn into negativity toward the sequel or its new cast.
“I just don’t want my stuff to be a space for negativity,” Artrip explained.
Maisie Williams and Joey King are taking over the characters previously played by Artrip and Wood in the upcoming sequel. Artrip, who has since retired from acting, said she believes both actresses deserve a fair chance.
“Maisie and Joey are lovely actresses, and I’m sure the production team did what they thought was best for the film to be successful,” she said.
Rather than focusing on the casting changes, Artrip encouraged longtime fans to approach the sequel with an open mind.
She added that nothing can take away from what the original movie meant to viewers and said she is excited to see the Practical Magic world continue with new material.
Her comments came shortly after Wood, 38, revealed that no one from the original film had reached out to her regarding the sequel.
Wood did, however, praise King for personally contacting her about taking on the role.
“I really appreciated Joey King reaching out to me because no one who worked on the original film did. She’s a sweetheart,” Wood wrote on Instagram.
King later said she and Wood had a “lovely” conversation and expressed appreciation for the support she received from the original actress.
Wood previously confirmed in 2025 that she had offered to return to the franchise, even for a very small appearance, but was told that the role would be recast.
She later suggested that the decision may have been connected to the direction of the sequel’s story.
Despite the disappointment surrounding the original cast members’ absence, Artrip is now encouraging fans to support the new film rather than allowing the recasting debate to overshadow it.
