Stockard Channing Returns to the Spotlight for ‘Practical Magic 2’ at 82

Stockard Channing, 82, has returned to the red carpet for the European premiere of “Practical Magic 2” in London. The Aug. 26 appearance was her first red carpet event in two years.

The actress recently opened up about her private life in an essay for The Sunday Times. She said the 2014 death of her longtime partner, Daniel Gillham, deeply affected her and led her to leave Maine. Channing moved to London alone shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic and said she is happy living a quiet, secluded life.

Channing is now returning as Aunt Franny Owens in “Practical Magic 2,” alongside Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman. Dianne Wiest will also reprise her role as Aunt Jet. The sequel also stars Joey King, Lee Pace, Maisie Williams, Xolo Maridueña and Solly McLeod.

The film follows the 1998 original, which was based on Alice Hoffman’s novel. Channing has said different generations know her from different roles, including “Grease,” “The West Wing” and “Practical Magic.”

After the sequel, Channing plans to direct a production of Samuel Beckett’s “Krapp’s Last Tape.” She said she may step away from acting afterward, adding that she does not know what the future will bring.

“Practical Magic 2” will be released in theaters Sept. 10.