Artrip Addresses Recasting in Practical Magic 2, 20 Years After Original

Alexandra Artrip has publicly responded to her recasting in Practical Magic 2 — two decades after portraying Antonia in the original 1998 film. In a recent Instagram video, the actress acknowledged widespread online discussion about the sequel and asked followers not to let the casting changes fuel negativity.

What Artrip said about the sequel and fan reactions

“I see a lot of content going around about the sequel, and I think the sentiment is right,” Artrip stated in the video. “You know, people are trying to show support for Evan and myself and the original film and everything that it’s meant to so many people, but I just don’t want my stuff to be a space for negativity.” She shared the clip in reply to an Instagram comment reading, “These two girls were perfect as is…I don’t want to watch Practical Magic now because of the changeup on the original.”

Cast changes confirmed for Practical Magic 2

Evan Rachel Wood and Alexandra Artrip have both been recast in the upcoming sequel. Wood originated the role of Kylie Owens; Artrip played Kylie’s sister, Antonia. Joey King will assume Wood’s role, while Maisie Williams takes over Artrip’s character. Artrip described both newcomers as “lovely actresses” and added, “Sure, the production team did what they felt was best for the film to be successful.”

Director cites narrative timeline as reason for recasting

Susanne Bier, director of Practical Magic 2, told AOL the decision was driven by the story’s internal chronology. “The kids in the story are right out of college, so it wasn’t really a question. We had to recast,” she explained. Bier emphasized the recasting was not motivated by personal considerations.

Wood’s remarks on outreach and King’s exception

Evan Rachel Wood recently noted that none of the original cast reached out to her following the recasting announcement. She clarified, however, that Joey King was the sole person from the new cast who contacted her directly.

Artrip launched a dedicated Instagram account to post behind-the-scenes memories from the original film’s set. Practical Magic 2 is scheduled for theatrical release on September 18.