Joey King Responds to Criticism Over ‘Practical Magic 2’ Casting

Joey King has responded to criticism over her casting as Kylie Owens in Practical Magic 2, the upcoming sequel to the 1998 fantasy film.

TikTok user Christian Vitek initially criticized King’s casting, saying her involvement had “completely ruined” what he expected to be a “beautiful, witchy fan fave movie.” King responded in a since-deleted comment, asking him to keep an open mind.

“I do hope you like the movie,” King wrote, according to E!. “It was a true honor to be in it as a massive fan of the original myself.”

King acknowledged that audiences can have strong feelings about legacy sequels and their casting choices. She also said she was honored to become part of the Owens family, which includes Sally, played by Sandra Bullock, and Gillian, played by Nicole Kidman.

“Being an [Owens] woman is not something I take lightly and I hope that respect shines through,” she wrote.

Vitek later reversed his position, posting that King’s involvement would “eaaaat” and promising to buy two tickets as a “public apology” to the actress. He also told Entertainment Weekly that he plans to see the film and hopes it delivers an authentic continuation of the original story.

King will play Kylie, the daughter of Bullock’s Sally Owens. The character was portrayed by Evan Rachel Wood in the original Practical Magic. Wood has said she was not invited to return for the sequel, despite offering to reprise the role.

“I was told they are re-casting,” Wood wrote on social media last year. “I would have happily rejoined my sisters.”

Wood later said she did not believe the sequel was closely following Alice Hoffman’s The Book of Magic, which continues the story from the original novel. Still, she expressed support for King and the new film.

“I wish them all the best and obviously wish Joey King the best,” Wood said.

Practical Magic 2 is scheduled to hit theaters on September 11.