Director Kenny Ortega Revealed We Almost Got This Frightening "Hocus Pocus" Deleted Scene

Jasmine Williams
Oct 30, 2023
hocus pocus deleted scene

I'm almost embarrassed to admit how many times I've watched Hocus Pocus during spooky season, but let's just say it's been a lot. It's become one of my comfort movies to watch when I need a pick-me-up, so hearing about a frightening deleted scene gives me all the feels. IMO, Hocus Pocus is already perfect, but it's always interesting to learn about what could've added a different element to this beloved classic.

Get ready to be shocked because director Kenny Ortega is taking us behind the scenes details about how Hocus Pocus became the version as we know it today.

Which scene was deleted from "Hocus Pocus"? 

Ortega told Entertainment Weekly about a scene that involved a child being kidnapped by Mary Sanderson (Kathy Najimy). Fans will recall that each of the Sanderson sisters were gifted with a particular talent, and Mary's was her penchant for smelling children. The scene was supposed to show her snatching a child and leaving the store as the mom tries to get the child back.

In his own words, Ortega said, "While the woman was shopping, she turned away from her cart for a moment, and Mary steals the cart because there's a child in it. The woman turns around and her child is gone, and the woman goes chasing after Kathy, who's trying to beat it with the child." Sounds super spooky, but now I'm itching to see it!

How did Ortega feel about this deleted scene?

As much as Ortega wanted to keep various juicy scenes in Hocus Pocus, he ultimately had to make the tough decisions to delete them. He told Entertainment Weekly that Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy and Sarah Jessica Parker were "improvisational geniuses," but that things had to be "left behind because of the length and timing" of the movie.

How did Disney originally feel about Bette Midler's performance in "Hocus Pocus"? 

Fans of Hocus Pocus will be surprised to know Disney wasn't on #TeamBette at first. In another Entertainment Weeklyinterview, Ortega said, "They were like, 'Uh, we're not quite sure this is the direction we want you to go in,'" when Disney spoke to Bette Midler. In classic diva form, Midler essentially told the entertainment giant they'd have to see things her way if they truly wanted her to be Winifred Sanderson.

What changed Disney's mind about Bette Midler's approach to "Hocus Pocus"?

www.youtube.com

“I Put A Spell On You” By Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker & Kathy Najimy | Hocus Pocus

Entertainment Weekly is happy to report that Disney couldn't resist Midler's charms when they saw her in action on the set of Hocus Pocus. Ortega said, "Everybody was laughing and happy." It goes to show that sometimes the best work isn't always the more polished image we may have in mind.

I personally like the camp version of Hocus Pocus because it adds to the movie's overall charm and cult following. Call it a diva move, but Midler knew exactly what she was doing when she put her foot down about her take on Winifred Sanderson.

How do you feel about the deleted scene from Hocus Pocus? Let us know in the comments!

Lead image via Image via YouTube/Walt Disney Pictures.

Wow, The 'Avengers: Doomsday' Cast Is Too Good To Be True

Marvel has finally assembling its new Avengers. The studio enlisted the help of Robert Downey Jr. (and over a dozen empty chairs) to confirm the Avengers: Doomsday cast — and announce that the movie (coming May 1, 2026) is now in production. And it looks like there are more names to come! Keep reading for the full list...for now.

Check out the Avengers: Doomsday cast before the movie hits theaters May 1, 2026.

1. Vanessa Kirby as Sue Storm/The Invisible Woman

Marvel Studios

After making her debut in The Fantastic 4 on July 25, 2025, we'll see Vanessa Kirby return as Sue Storm/The Invisible Woman.

2. Pedro Pascal as Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic

Marvel Studios

Pedro Pascal stars in as Reed Richards/Mr. Fantastic.

3. Joseph Quinn as Johnny Storm/The Human Torch

Marvel Studios

Joseph Quinn also joins the Avengers: Doomsday cast as Johnny Storm/The Human Torch.

4. Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Ben Grimm/The Thing

Marvel Studios

Ebon Moss-Bachrach stars as Ben Grimm/The Thing.

5. Tom Hiddleton as Loki

Marvel Studios

Tom Hiddleton also returns as Loki!

6. Chris Hemsworth stars as Thor

Marvel Studios

Chris Hemsworth stars as Thor, God of Thunder.

7. Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson/Captain America

Eli Adé/Marvel Studios/Disney

After leading the charge in Captain America: Brave New World, Anthony Mackie returns as Sam Wilson/Captain America.

8. Danny Ramirez as Joaquin Torres/The Falcon

Marvel Studios

And the Avengers: Doomsday cast also includes Danny Ramirez as Joaquin Torres/The Falcon.

9. Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova

Marvel Studios

We'll see Florence Pugh return to the next Avengers movie as Yelena Belova after Thunderbolts* hits theaters May 2, 2025.

10. Lewis Pullman as Bob/Sentry

Marvel Studios

Lewis Pullman stars as Bob/Sentry.

11. Hannah John-Kamen as Ava Starr/Ghost

Marvel Studios

Hannah John-Kamen also returns as Ava Starr/Ghost.

12. Wyatt Russell as John Walker/U.S. Agent

Marvel Studios

Wyatt Russell stars as John Walker/U.S. Agent in Avengers: Doomsday.

13. Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes/The Winter Soldier

Marvel Studios

And Sebastian Stan is also making an appearance as Bucky Barnes/The Winter Soldier.

14. David Harbour as Alexei Shostakov/Red Guardian

Marvel Studios

David Harbour stars as Alexei Shostakov/Red Guardian.

15. Simu Liu as Shang-Chi

Marvel Studios

We're FINALLY going to see Simu Liu as Shang-Chi again!

16. Winston Duke as M'Baku

Marvel Studios

Winston Duke returns to the MCU as M'Baku.

17. Letitia Wright as Shuri/Black Panther

Annette Brown/Marvel Studios/Disney

Letitia Wright returns as Shuri/Black Panther.

18. Tenoch Huerta as Namor

Marvel Studios

And we'll see Tenoch Huerta as Namor.

19. ​​Paul Rudd as Scott Lang/Ant Man

Marvel Studios

The Avengers: Doomsday cast includes Paul Rudd as Scott Lang/Ant Man.

20. Channing Tatum as Remy LeBeau/Gambit

Marvel Studios

Channing Tatum joins the Avengers: Doomsday cast as Remy LeBeau/Gambit.

21. Rebecca Romijn as Mystique

Kerry Hayes/SMPSP/Twentieth Century Fox

Rebecca Romijn stars as Mystique from the original X-Men movies!

22. James Marsden as Scott Summers/Cyclops

Twentieth Century Fox

James Marsden also reprises his role as Scott Summers/Cyclops.

23. Patrick Stewart as Charles Xavier/Professor X

Marvel Studios

As does Patrick Stewart, who we'll see as Charles Xavier/Professor X.

24. Alan Cumming as Kurt Wagner/Nightcrawler

​20th Century Fox

Alan Cumming returns as Kurt Wagner/Nightcrawler.

25. Ian McKellen as Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto.

20th Century Studios

Ian McKellen stars as Erik Lehnsherr/Magneto.

26. Kelsey Grammer as Dr. Hank McCoy/Beast

Marvel Studios

Kelsey Grammer stars as Dr. Hank McCoy/Beast.

27. Robert Downey Jr. as Viktor Von Doom/Doctor Doom

Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Disney

And of course, we'll see Robert Downey Jr. as Viktor Von Doom/Doctor Doom.

Whew, what a cast list! Check Brit + Co for the latest news on Avengers: Doomsday and other Marvel projects, and follow us on TikTok for more!

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8 Sundresses That Channel Piper’s Style From ‘The White Lotus’

Piper Ratliff's outfits on The White Lotus are exactly what I'm looking to add to my spring and summer wardrobe for 2025. Piper's (Sarah Catherine Hook) style is the perfect mix of bohemian and classy that gives off a certain laidback elegance. And considering I'm a Carolina girl myself (not to mention I'm actually from the beach), I know exactly how to achieve that ultimate vacation vibe. Here are the best sundresses for a White Lotus look...without any of the drama.

Keep reading for the best sundresses to add some Piper Ratliff & White Lotus magic to your summer wardrobe.

How To Get Piper Ratliff's style from 'The White Lotus.'

Fabio Lovino/HBO

Like I mentioned earlier, all of Piper Ratliff's best outfits are a mix of three things: bohemian, classy, and fitted. While the aesthetic is giving girl off duty, her attention to detail means she always looks put together. Because if you ask me, that's the secret to always looking expensive! Her best outfits feature pieces that are fitted in a flattering way, her accessories are intentional, and everything in her outfit is working together. In this case, less is more.

8 Dresses For Summer 2025 Piper Ratliff Would Approve Of

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Emerson Poplin Wide Strap Midi Dress

This gorgeous dress is perfect for both spring and summer, and it's flirty while still offering plenty of coverage. Plus the blue and white color combo is so giving Carolina.

Madewell

Madewell Seamed Squareneck Midi Dress

To channel Piper's more minimalist outfits, this khaki dress is flattering, elevated, and it lets your accessories take center stage.

J. Crew

J. Crew Squareneck Midi Dress

If you prefer to keep your accessories, low-key, a printed dress will do all the heavy lifting for you. And this print is totally giving White Lotus!

Old Navy

Old Navy Fit & Flare Lightweight Smocked Gingham Midi Dress

You can never have too many fit and flair dresses if you ask me. Especially when they feature fluttery sleeves and a dreamy gingham print.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie LSPACE Calla Midi Dress

For the ultimate beachy look, opt for a lightweight, strappy dress. You can wear it over your bathing suit during the day or a colorful bodysuit at night.

J. Crew

J. Crew Fitted-Waist Shirtdress

If there's anything that makes sense for a preppy Carolina girl, it's a collar. Add some raffia sandals for a Piper Ratliff-approved boho edge.

Anthropologie

By Anthropologie Strapless Drop-Waist Midi Dress

Y'all, I can't stop thinking about this dress. The silhouette! The color! The detail! It's the perfect thing to pack for any vacation...whether or not you're showing up to a White Lotus resort. ;)

Amazon

CUPSHE Beach Dress

Comfy, casual, and some eye-catching details? Sign me up.

Which Piper Ratliff-inspired look will you be rocking this summer? Don't forget to read up on Everything You Need To Know About The WhiteLotus Season Finale.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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Um, Zendaya's 'The Odyssey' Leaks Might Have Spoiled Her Role

I'm still reeling over the fact that Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey cast includes Tom Holland, Zendaya, Anne Hathaway, and Lupita Nyong'o. Like WHAT! This is going to be the most beautiful movie of 2026 — especially since some of the first leaks from set show Zendaya looking radiant and Tom Holland "out on the open sea without a single green screen in sight," according to X user @zoerosebryant. And y'all, not only is the scenery gorgeous, but so is Tom Holland. (To no one's surprise).

Keep reading to see the first The Odyssey leaks of Tom Holland and Zendaya.

Zendaya stuns while filming 'The Odyssey.'

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Thanks to DeuxMoi, we have a look at Zendaya and Matt Damon filming The Odyssey in Italy. (And no, the spoiler alert isn't for the 2000-year-old plot — it's for the costumes & potential casting confirmation!)

Zendaya wears a cream-colored Chiton with her hair braided into a low bun behind her head while Matt boasts a gray beard and looks a little bit like Tom Hanks in Castaway.

Now, we still don't have official confirmation of who Zendaya's playing in the movie, although she's rumored to be playing Athena (but more on that later). A lot of people in the comments are convinced she's playing Athena, and Zendaya's practical costume supports that rumor in my opinion. But if these two are filming on an island, it could actually prove Z is playing Calypso, who tries to keep Odysseus on her island — or even Princess Nausicaä, who helps Odysseus when he washes up on her island. So it really boils down to whether Zendaya is trying to trap Matt Damon or help him...and we'll have to wait and find out.

"Zendaya booked, busy and beautiful as ever," one Instagram comment reads, while another points out "the fact she was literally Rue filming euphoria nightshoots like barely 48 hours ago 😭😭😭."

Tom Holland sets out on a hero's journey.

The first leaks we got of Tom Holland filming The Odyssey feature the Spider-Man 4 actor on a boat in Greece — and according to an extra who was on set, Tom was filming scenes of his character arriving in Sparta.

I'm a big fan of the curly hair (even though I remember Tom said he hated his long hair in Avengers: Infinity War because he felt like Prince Charming), but more than one person on the internet has compared Tom's look in The Odyssey to Elijah Woods' Frodo from The Lord of the Rings, and I can't help but laugh.

We also recently got a look at Tom Holland alongside Jon Bernthal as they hung out in a tent off camera (and without their capes) and again I say: the curly hair is doing wonders for me!

Christopher Nolan and Universal haven't confirmed who our favorite stars are playing (aside from the announcement that Matt Damon is leading the story as Odysseus), but rumors have started circulating that Tom Holland will play Odysseus' son Telemachus, who sets out to find his father and is protected by Athena, rumored to be played by Zendaya. This means my favorite couple could get plenty of screen time together, which is literally all I care about.

The rumors also say we could see Anne Hathaway as Odysseus' wife Penelope, Charlize Theron as sorceress Circe, Benny Safdie as Agamemnon, the king of Mycenae, and Lupita Nyong'o as Agamemnon's wife Clytemnestra. Stay tuned to find out! Until then, I'll be daydreaming about Tom Holland as Telemachus.

What do you think about the first The Odyssey set leaks? Tag us on Instagram with all your hot takes.

This post has been updated.

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The 25 Happiest Countries In The World Just Dropped For 2025!

The World Happiness Report for 2025 is officially here, and there's a LOT to take away from it — including the happiest countries around the world that you can visit and live in this year. Whether there's better healthcare, more community, and everything in between, some places really are just happier than others. So, without further ado, these are officially the most happy countries in the world for 2025!

Scroll to see what the happiest countries in the world are for 2025!

When did the 2025 World Happiness Report come out?

Yan Krukau

The 2025 World Happiness Report was aptly released on March 20, the International Day of Happiness!

What does the World Happiness Report measure?

FbyF Studio

Published by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford, the report is based on data from the Gallup World Poll, which surveys individuals in over 140 countries. It ranks nations by happiness using the average life evaluations over the past three years, specifically from 2022 to 2024.

Participants in the survey rate their overall life satisfaction, and these self-assessments determine the rankings. To better understand the factors influencing happiness, the report examines six key indicators: GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy, social support, generosity, personal freedom, and perceptions of corruption.

What rank is USA in World Happiness Report?

Samson Katt

This year, the United States isn't faring so well. This year, our nation dropped to its lowest ranking ever: number 24.

According to Illana Ron-Levey, Gallup's managing director, some of the United States' decline in happiness was "at least partly attributable to Americans younger than age 30 feeling worse about their lives."

Why would some people be less happy in 2025?

Vlada Karpovich

"Today's young people report feeling less supported by friends and family, less free to make life choices, and less optimistic about their living standards," she added.

The good news is that the research shows people are generally kinder than we assume, and recognizing this could boost our happiness and transform how we perceive those around us.

Moreover, there are plenty of extremely happy countries that make desirable travel destinations. Here are some that topped the list in satisfaction.

Paul Theodor Oja

2025's Happiest Countries In The World

It may not come as a shock that Finland has taken first place for the eighth year in a row. The nation boasts many beneficial policies and initiatives, such as universal health care, as well as a strong social support and education infrastructure. It also has a very low crime rate.

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, too, from soaking up the northern lights under the Arctic sky to hiking in one of Finland's 41 national parks, seeing breathtaking architecture, experiencing Midsummer, a celebration of the summer solstice, and, of course, trying Finnish food.

The runners-up to Finland include Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden in second, third, and fourth place, respectively. Just like Finland, these three countries held onto their global happiness ranking from 2024.

Damir K

Those hoping to visit Denmark can explore its capital city, Copenhagen, which is rich in museums and other cultural experiences, learn about the fascinating history of Vikings, and dine at Michelin award-winning restaurants.

Rudy Kirchner

Over in Iceland, experience unbelievable 24-hour daylight from mid-May to late July, go whale watching, take a diving tour or guided snorkeling trip at Thingvellir National Park, traverse glaciers, relax in geothermal spas, and walk along beautiful black sand beaches.

Shvets Anna

Finally, in Sweden, there are various vibrant cities to check out, like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. Pop fans must visit the ABBA museum, while culinary connoisseurs need to try authentic Swedish meatballs, and nature lovers can take in all the natural beauty that Sweden is renowned for.

Aside from the Nordic countries, which are dominating the globe in terms of happiness, two Latin American countries also made it into the top 10 for the very first time. Costa Rica ranked at number six, and Mexico at number 10.

Diego Madrigal

If you travel to Costa Rica, you can embark on all kinds of adventures, from hiking and zip-lining to surfing and river rafting.

Bryan Martinez

Or, in Mexico, see the archaeological site Chichen Itza, take a delicious food tour, and sit back on the sand of some stunning beaches.

What's the full list of the happiest countries in the world for 2025?

Kristoffer Brink Jonsson

  1. Finland
  2. Denmark
  3. Iceland
  4. Sweden
  5. Netherlands
  6. Costa Rica
  7. Norway
  8. Israel
  9. Luxembourg
  10. Mexico
  11. Australia
  12. New Zealand
  13. Switzerland
  14. Belgium
  15. Ireland
  16. Lithuania
  17. Austria
  18. Canada
  19. Slovenia
  20. Czechia
  21. United Arab Emirates
  22. Germany
  23. United Kingdom
  24. United States
  25. Belize

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Why The ACOTAR TV Show Cancellation Is Actually A Good Thing

While I love seeing BookTok-viral novels get turned into movies (hello It Ends With Us!), it's just as fun to see them get turned into TV shows, like Fourth Wing — which is why I had such high hopes for A Court of Thorns and Roses at Hulu...before it got canceled. But believe it or not, the fantasy series cancellation could actually a good thing.

Here's the latest update on the A Court of Thorns and Roses show.

Is the ACOTAR TV show still happening?

KoolShooters/Pexels

A Court of Thorns and Roses TV show has officially be scrapped at Disney’s 20th Television, according to Variety. But ACOTAR fans, don't give up hope! Sarah J. Maas was working with Outlander creator Ronald D. Moore, but now Variety's sources say that after the rights expire at Disney, SJM will be shopping the rights to an ACOTAR show to a different studio and platform.

Honestly, I'm totally here for this because a platform like Prime or Max would provide a different kind of edge and aesthetic to the series that would serve it in a different way. And if we have to wait a little longer for a platform SJM feels most aligned with, I'm willing to stick it out!

On February 27, 2024, Sarah J. Maas reportedly went out to coffee with Margot Robbie. Margot's production company (LuckyChap) has backed projects like I, Tonya, Promising Young Woman, Saltburn. Everything Margot touches turns to gold so I really hope she eventually ends up on the creative team for A Court of Thorns and Roses!

Who plays Rhysand in ACOTAR?

Jared Subia/Unsplash

We never got an official cast announcement, but there are plenty of ACOTAR fancasts.

Hannah Dodd, who plays Francesca in Netflix's hit series Bridgerton, would be the PERFECT addition to the cast, whether she plays Elain or Feyre. And now, I honestly don't know if I'll be satisfied with anyone else ;). "She is ELAIN," one TikTok user comments. "Literally copy paste from my brain Elain."

Deuxmoi (via Marie Claire Australia) revealed some potential actors who could be in the running, like Thomas Doherty, Theo James, and Katherine Langford. Actress Brec Bassigner expressed that she'd love to be considered for a role. "I emailed my team, and I was like, ‘Listen, I don’t care if I have one line. I have to be a part of this,'" she says in an interview with TV Line.

Is ACOTAR getting a 6th book?

Amazon

Yes, ACOTAR book 6 is on the way! We don't know who the new book will focus on, but Sarah J. Maas did say she's excited to bring it to us.

"The next book in that series, I have the ideas and general, vague thoughts. But the nitty gritty of writing and the emotional journeys with the characters — I usually love to go on those journeys with them," she said during an appearance on TODAY.

What is A Court of Thorns and Roses about?

Amazon

A Court of Thorns and Roses follows Feyre, a huntress who's forced to live with the immortal faeries after killing a wolf in the woods. The longer she stays in the Fae's world, the more she begins to love it — and the passionate, alluring faerie Tamlin. But as a dark shadow grows, both their world and Tamlin are put in danger, and it's up to Feyre to save them all.

When did the Court of Thorns and Roses series come out?

Amazon

A Court of Thorns and Roses is the first novel in the series of the same name, and was published in 2015. Sarah J. Maas continued the series with A Court of Mist and Fury in 2016, A Court of Wings and Ruin in 2017, A Court of Frost and Starlight in 2018, and A Court of Silver Flames in 2021.

Are you excited for the A Court of Thorns and Roses TV show? Let us know your dream cast in the comments and on TikTok! And read up on The Only ACOTAR Character Breakdown You Need Before Book 6 Comes Out.

This post has been updated.

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