Disney's Hocus Pocus 2 director Anne Fletcher confirmed that Binx would return in the sequel. The talking cat is one of the most beloved characters in the original Hocus Pocus. The Sanderson Sisters use their magic to transform Thackary Binx from a boy to a cat at the top of the movie. From there, he joins protagonists Max, Allison, and Dani in their fight against the witches. When the Sandersons meet their demise at the end, Binx's curse is broken, and he finds peace on the other side with his sister Emily. Though the character's story was seemingly tied in a perfect bow, the announcement of Hocus Pocus 2 made many audiences wonder if Binx would return.
Under the helm of Anne Fletcher (The Proposal), Hocus Pocus 2 sees original Sanderson Sisters Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy reprise their witchy alter egos. In addition to a collection of new cast members, early on, Disney announced that Doug Jones would channel his inner zombie once again as Billy Butcherson. Audiences were left wondering what other familiar faces would be conjured up. Unfortunately, the titular trifecta of the first flick - Omri Katz, Vinessa Shaw, and Thora Birch - are said not to be in the sequel, but the big mouse could still have some surprises in store.
While speaking with EW, Fletcher confirmed that Binx would return in Hocus Pocus 2. She expanded on the possibility of spotting everyone's favorite talking cat by saying he may not be talking but will be present in some way. "Billy and Binx, I wanted back," she told the publication, adding: "We're having some fun with him, so, we'll see." However, she also added that there are "no talking cats" in the film.
Fletcher said that she finds Binx to be the beating heart of Hocus Pocus, acknowledging that there will be at least a nod to the black cat. It seems Disney has found a new animal mascot in Cobweb, a kitten who can be seen briefly in the Hocus Pocus 2 trailer. Cobweb belongs to Sam Richard's new character, Gilbert, who has transformed the Sanderson cottage into the Salem Magic Shop. Based on her quip, Cobweb is not a talking cat.
The director's statement casts hope over diehard Hocus Pocus viewers. While it may read as contradictory that there are no talking cats in the film, and yet Binx makes an appearance, Fletcher seems to be gearing everyone up for a subtle nod to the character. Of course, she could also be tip-toeing around a major surprise. Ultimately, audiences won't know Binx's Hocus Pocus 2 fate until the highly-anticipated sequel flies on Disney+ on September 30.
Source: EW
