Disney Studios is abuzz with enchantment as it greenlights the eagerly awaited reboot of “Wizards of Waverly Place,” starring Selena Gomez and David Henrie. This exciting development comes just two months after Disney initially commissioned a pilot for the project.
Selena Gomez, the brains behind Rare Beauty, took to Instagram Stories on March 22 to share the thrilling update, posting a behind-the-scenes snapshot with Henrie on the reboot’s set. Her message was brimming with excitement: “Guess what?! WE GOT PICKED UP FOR SEASON 1!”
“The Hollywood Reporter” has revealed that production is set to kick off next month in Los Angeles, with a premiere date slated for later this year on both Disney+ and the Disney Channel. Gomez and Henrie, who originally charmed audiences as the magical siblings Alex and Justin Russo, are not only returning to their roles but also stepping up as executive producers for the reboot.
While Gomez is confirmed to grace the first episode, it appears Henrie’s character will take center stage for most of the series, portraying a father to Milo (Max Matenko) and Roman (Alkaio Thiele). More than ten years following the original “Wizards” conclusion in 2012, Justin Russo has settled down, his wife Giada being portrayed by Mimi Gianopulos.
The reboot also introduces Janice LeAnn Brown as Billie, a formidable young wizard. Alex’s introduction of Billie to Justin thrusts him back into the magical realm he left behind, challenging him to mentor her as he navigates his quest for a normal family life.
Joining Gomez and Henrie in the production team are Gary Marsh, former head of Disney Branded Television, and director Andy Fickman, alongside the pilot’s writers, Jed Elinoff and Scott Thomas. This project joins a wave of nostalgic reboots, including Nickelodeon’s “iCarly,” “Zoey 101,” and the ultimately canceled “Lizzy McGuire” revival.
Gomez first teased her return to Disney in January, celebrating the green light for the “Wizards” reboot pilot with an Instagram Story exclaiming, “So excited!! WE’RE BACK.”
Below, catch a first glimpse of the new “Wizards of Waverly Place.”