King, 34, defends Practical Magic 2 casting amid fan backlash

Thirty-four-year-old Joey King addressed a TikTok user’s criticism that her casting had “ruined” Practical Magic 2, responding with measured warmth rather than defensiveness. She acknowledged the emotional weight longtime fans attach to the franchise and affirmed her own deep connection to the 1998 film.

How King engaged with fan criticism

Instead of countering the critique, King invited the viewer to approach the sequel with flexibility, saying, “open your mind a little” and observe how much fun she had making it. She emphasized the significance of portraying an Owens woman, noting she grew up loving the original. The exchange led to the critic’s public apology: “Yeah…you tore me up. Sorry, queen (via E! Online).”

The new Owens family dynamic

In the sequel, King plays Kylie, daughter of Sandra Bullock’s Sally Owens, while Maisie Williams portrays her sister Antonia. Nicole Kidman reprises her role as Gillian, establishing continuity with the original instead of launching a standalone narrative.

A meaningful on-set reunion

King described the experience of working alongside actors from the 1998 film as “so special,” speaking with Teen Vogue on August 28. Both she and Williams were longtime fans of Practical Magic before joining the project. Bullock welcomed them “under her wing” as her daughters during filming, according to King’s interview with People.

Reuniting with Kidman

King highlighted her prior collaboration with Nicole Kidman, who previously played her mother in another film. Calling their reunion “particularly meaningful,” she added: “I’m just such a fan of her. I’m so in awe of her. She’s the nicest person ever.”

King’s acting career spans roles in Ramona and Beezus, Crazy, Stupid, Love, The Conjuring, Wish I Was Here, and Hulu’s The Act — work extending well beyond the supernatural genre.

Originally reported by Rishabh Shandilya for Coming Soon.