What counts as a Hocus Pocus project
The question “how many Hocus Pocus” usually means theatrical films in the main shared setting, but it can also include Disney+ sequels, live specials, and reboot plans. This guide treats as core only films that center on the Sanderson sisters and the town of Salem, while noting related projects that extend or reinterpret the universe. We distinguish between official releases and announced projects that remain unproduced.
- Core theatrical films with a shared plotline
- Direct-to-streaming sequels and specials
- Possible future entries and development news
Here we separate confirmed works from rumors and place each title into the timeline of the broader franchise.
How many theatrical Hocus Pocus films exist
There are three main theatrical Hocus Pocus films released by Walt Disney Pictures between 1993 and 2022. Each follows the Sanderson sisters in Salem, though they were made over different decades and target slightly different tones. These three titles are undisputed part of the core canon and together define the primary Hocus Pocus lineup.
| Film | Year | Role in series |
|---|---|---|
| Hocus Pocus | 1993 | Original theatrical launch |
| Hocus Pocus 2 | 2022 | Theatrical sequel, set 29 years after the first |
| Hocus Pocus 3 | TBD | Announced, not yet produced or released |
Note that some lists include the 2022 sequel in a “two films” count if they exclude announced projects. For clarity, the only released theatrical sequels as of now are the original 1993 film and the 2022 follow-up.
Hocus Pocus (1993)
The first film introduces the Sanderson sisters in Salem and centers on a teenager transported back to 1693. It has since become a cultural touchstone through annual airings and fan traditions, even though it underperformed at its initial box office.
Hocus Pocus 2 (2022)
The sequel revisits the same world with a new protagonist, largely retaining the original cast. It was produced for a streaming-first release on Disney+ after production was affected by the pandemic, but received a limited theatrical run as well.
Hocus Pocus 3 (in development)
Announced by Disney, this follow-up is in early development and has no release date. Until it begins production and completes post-release, it should be counted as announced rather than an existing film.
Direct-to-streaming and special Hocus Pocus releases
Alongside the theatrical series, Disney+ has hosted related projects that expand the universe. These include a live musical special and the animated sequel film, which carries the continuity of the original storylines while introducing new characters and settings.
| Title | Release type | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Hocus Pocus: The Planetary Spell – Live | Disney+ special | 2022 |
| Hocus Pocus 2: The Reaping | Disney+ original film | 2022 |
The live special features new musical numbers and sketches, while the sequel film on streaming provides an additional continuation of the sister saga. Both are part of the broader Hocus Pocus family but differ from the original theatrical trilogy structure.
Recap of how many Hocus Pocus films and specials exist
As of now, there are three main theatrical films in the core series, of which two are currently available (the 1993 original and the 2022 sequel). Disney+ has also added at least two additional related productions: a live musical special and a streaming-exclusive sequel film. Announced projects exist but are not yet realized.
- 3 theatrical films announced, 2 released
- 2 direct-to-streaming or live specials on Disney+
- Future entries remain in development limbo until confirmed
How to interpret franchise counts going forward
The number of Hocus Pocus projects depends on whether you include specials, reboots, and streaming originals. For a strict count of released theatrical films, the total is two. When you include streaming sequels and live events, the number increases to at least four distinct pieces of content. Moving forward, announcements and production updates will shift these totals, so checking official sources is the safest way to keep current.
Tags: hocus-pocus, disney-plus, sequel-release-timeline