Sandra Bullock preparing for Practical Magic 2 role has meant a dramatic transformation, as she readies herself physically and creatively for her long-awaited return to film alongside Nicole Kidman in the upcoming 2026 sequel. The Oscar winner is dedicating herself to intense workouts and experimenting with bold style updates to fully inhabit one of her most demanding roles to date.
Bullock Embraces Intensive Physical Training Ahead of Sequel
Sandra Bullock’s approach to preparing for Practical Magic 2 is rigorous, particularly as this marks her first major film role in several years. According to a source close to the production, Bullock is fully aware of what the sequel requires in terms of both performance and appearance. As the insider shares,
“Sandra is realistic about what Practical Magic 2 requires,”
—Insider. The source further reveals,
“She and Nicole Kidman need to look as hot as humanly possible, or the whole premise and comedy of the film doesn’t work. Nobody is forcing her to lose weight or get ripped, but Sandra is doing it for the good of the movie, and she’s doing it her way.”
—Insider. At 60, Bullock is pushing herself to achieve a well-toned look by hitting the gym with renewed determination and by adopting new makeup and costume styles to best portray her character’s evolution.
Returning to a Cult Favorite After a Lengthy Hiatus
Bullock has not appeared on the big screen for four years, making this comeback even more meaningful. Sources note the contrast to co-star Nicole Kidman, who consistently takes on new roles, saying,
“It’s a funny situation because this is what Nicole does every two months, because Nicole works so much, but Sandra hasn’t made a movie in four years,”
—Insider. The insider adds,
“This is a big deal for her, and she always wanted to revisit this character. That means dieting, that means crunches and that means no cheating.”
—Insider. Despite the physical demands, the source offers insight into Bullock’s determination:
“She has the body and mindset of an elite athlete. She can handle this, and she can more than handle the enormous payoff that comes from making a great movie. After another long hiatus, she can’t wait to get back in the game.”
—Insider.
The Legacy and Anticipation Behind Practical Magic 2
Practical Magic originally featured Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman as sisters Sally and Gillian Owens, who were born into a family of witches but had distanced themselves from magic. The 1998 film centered on their return to witchcraft to bring Gillian’s deceased boyfriend back to life, which led to unintended supernatural consequences. Despite its mixed reception upon release, the movie eventually gained a devoted following, becoming a Halloween staple and establishing Bullock and Kidman’s characters as fan favorites.
Building on this legacy, both stars are reprising their roles for the sequel. Kidman confirmed their involvement during a June 2024 interview with People and expressed her excitement about exploring new facets of the Owens sisters.
“There’s a lot more to tell which is why we go, ‘OK, this is kind of interesting now to be able to do this,’”
—Nicole Kidman.
Official Announcement and Release Date Revealed
The buzz surrounding the sequel intensified after Warner Bros. published an official teaser video on Instagram. The post confirmed that Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman will return in Practical Magic 2, which is slated for a theatrical release on September 18, 2026.
“The spell is cast. The date is set. Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman return. Only In Theaters September 18, 2026,”
—Warner Bros.
A Bold, Reimagined Sequel with New Themes
Those involved stress that the sequel won’t simply repeat the original’s formula. A source emphasizes that both stars are energized for the project, explaining,
“It’s not just going to be a nostalgic retread of the first movie.”
—Insider. Plans for the follow-up aim to appeal to modern audiences and ignite conversation.
“It’s going to be a reinvention and hopefully more of a ‘water cooler’ kind of movie that gets people talking,”
—Insider. Comparing the sequel’s tone to Big Little Lies, the source notes,
“This is going to be a Practical Magic for the people who made Big Little Lies a hit,”
—Insider. The project is set to explore themes such as women reclaiming their sexuality later in life, with Bullock reportedly appreciating Kidman’s edgier contributions to the creative process.
“Sandra loves that Nicole has this edgy sensibility she wants to bring to this project, which is going to be one big metaphor for women rediscovering their sexuality later in life.”
—Insider.
With so much anticipation and excitement among both cast and fans, the project feels especially significant. As the insider concludes,
“They’re both all-in on this and if anything, they wished it happened a lot sooner. It’s been pretty exciting how fast this sequel has come together and how the press and fans have been so supportive.”
—Insider.
What Lies Ahead for Bullock, Kidman, and the Franchise
With Sandra Bullock preparing for Practical Magic 2 role with fierce dedication, and Nicole Kidman returning by her side, the sequel is poised to capture both nostalgic fans and new audiences. The updated approach promises powerful performances, fresh storytelling, and deeper themes, ensuring Practical Magic 2 will be much more than just a sequel—it aims to be a cultural moment when it arrives in theaters in 2026.
