Evan Rachel Wood has made the Practical Magic 2 recasting discussion significantly more uncomfortable. The original Kylie Owens actress shared her thoughts on why she believes the sequel should not have replaced her and what she perceives as the issues with the adaptation.

Evan Rachel Wood ‘sad’ over Practical Magic 2 recasting

Evan Rachel Wood expressed her disappointment regarding her absence from Practical Magic 2. The actress mentioned to Entertainment Tonight that she felt “sad” about not being able to reprise her role as Kylie Owens, which she originally portrayed as Sandra Bullock’s eldest daughter in the 1998 film.

“It is sad, because we bonded with that cast so much as children,” Wood stated at The Shards premiere. She added that missing the opportunity to reunite with the original cast “is something that can’t be faked.” Wood also expressed her sadness about this not being able to happen, particularly for the fans.

Joey King has now taken over the role of Kylie in the sequel. Wood previously revealed on Instagram that she was not approached by the production team to return. She even offered to make a brief appearance or deliver a single line.

“I was told they are re-casting,” Wood wrote when the sequel was announced. She emphasized that this decision was “not in my control or my choice.” Wood also mentioned she “would have happily rejoined my sisters.”

The actress further shared her insights on the film’s direction after reviewing the source material. “I read the book, and it seems like they’re not following the book,” Wood explained. She believed that adhering to the original novel would have justified bringing her character back.

Practical Magic 2 has also recast Bullock’s other onscreen daughter, Antonia, with Maisie Williams replacing Alexandra Artrip. The sequel features Bullock, Nicole Kidman, Stockard Channing, Dianne Wiest, Lee Pace, Xolo Maridueña, and Solly McLeod. The film adapts Alice Hoffman’s The Book of Magic and is set to release on September 11.