Wizards Beyond Waverly Place Confirms Another Major Return — Here’s Everything We Know So Far
Everything is not what it seems… except when it is! Disney has officially given a series order to Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, a continuation of the classic sitcom Wizards of Waverly Place, set to premiere later this year on Disney Channel and Disney+.
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Wizards of Waverly Place, which turned Selena Gomez into a household name back in the mid-2000s, followed the magical exploits of the Russo family. This new series will follow a grown-up Justin Russo (returning star David Henrie) as he raises his own family and teaches the next generation of spellcasters. Think Girls Meets World or Raven’s Home, only with more rhyming.
“Wizards of Waverly Place captivated hearts with its spellbinding adventures and big laughs, creating unforgettable memories for kids and families everywhere,” says Disney Branded Television president Ayo Davis. “We can’t wait to step back into the magical world of Wizards, inviting both longtime fans and a new generation to experience the enchantment alongside Selena, David, and our incredible cast and crew.”
But what exactly is the new show about? Who is carrying on the Russo family legacy? And which other familiar faces from the original series could we expect to see? Join us in exploring those burning questions (and more!) below, then drop a comment with your thoughts about the Wizards‘ next chapter.
What Is Wizards Beyond Waverly Place About?
“The series follows an adult Justin Russo, who has chosen to lead a normal, mortal life with his family, Giada, Roman and Milo,” according to Wizards Beyond Waverly Place‘s official logline. “When Justin’s sister Alex brings Billie to his home seeking help, Justin realizes he must dust off his magical skills to mentor the wizard-in-training while also juggling his everyday responsibilities — and safeguarding the future of the Wizard World.”
Which Wizards of Waverly Place Stars Are Returning?
Several members of the original Russo family will have a presence on Wizards, most notably David Henrie, who will return in the series-regular role of Justin. Selena Gomez will also reprise the role of Alex, guest-starring in the pilot episode. Both Henrie and Gomez are executive-producing the new series.
In an Instagram video posted June 21, Henrie confirmed that David DeLuise will guest-star as Russo family patriarch Jerry. “Can’t tell you how magical this reunion was,” Henrie wrote. “It’s like we haven’t missed a day!”
Which New Faces Are Joining the Wizards Cast?
Along with Henrie as Justin, additional series regulars include Mimi Gianopulos (American Princess) as Justin’s wife Giada, Alkaio Thiele (Call Me Kat) as their older son Roman and Janice LeAnn Brown (Just Roll With It) as a “powerful young wizard” named Billie. Justin and Giada’s younger son Milo is played by Max Matenko (Platonic).
Is Jake T. Austin Returning as Max?
We don’t officially know how involved Jake T. Austin will be with Wizards, but there’s a good chance he’ll reprise the role of youngest child Max Russo in some capacity. Austin reposted the picture of his TV siblings and parents in an Instagram story, writing, “Wow! Am looking forward to getting together with my Wizards family.” Cryptic!
Is Jennifer Stone Returning as Harper?
Though Harper isn’t an “official” member of the Russo family, it’s hard to imagine Wizards without Alex’s quirky BFF, played by Jennifer Stone for the entirety of the show’s original run.
Stone has neither confirmed nor denied her involvement in the project, but given that she co-hosts a Wizards rewatch podcast with DeLuise — who is confirmed to be returning as a guest star — it’s likely that we’ll see her guest-star eventually.
Where Can I Watch the Original Wizards of Waverly Place?
All four seasons of the original Wizards of Waverly Place are currently available to stream on Disney+.
You can also stream 2009’s made-for-TV Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie, as well as the 2013 reunion special The Wizards Return: Alex vs. Alex.
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