Nicole Kidman Praises the Black Cat in ‘Practical Magic 2’ for Stole the Show
Sequels to beloved cult classics come with significant expectations, especially after nearly three decades of fans wondering about their favorite characters. In ‘Practical Magic 2,’ that weight rests on the shoulders of Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock, who are returning to the roles that significantly shaped their careers.
The duo reprises their roles as witch sisters Sally and Gillian Owens 28 years after the original film, now working to break the family curse that has affected generations of Owens women. Directed by Susanne Bier, the sequel is based on a screenplay by Akiva Goldsman, Georgia Pritchett, and Kelly Marcel, drawing from Alice Hoffman’s novel ‘The Book of Magic.’
Amid the discussions about the returning cast and generational curses, one specific co-star has emerged as the standout of the production. Kidman shared that a black cat featured throughout the film made such a strong impression on her that she now considers it the best animal she has ever worked with on camera.
Cats are often known for their unpredictability on set, but according to Kidman, this particular feline exceeded all expectations. She remarked that the cat performed every task it was asked to do, which is quite rare for feline actors, and credited Bullock for selecting the perfect one for the role.
Interestingly, Bullock was the one who chose the cat that ultimately won over her co-star. In a conversation on the BBC World Service’s The Arts Hour, Bullock humorously noted that her decision was based on aesthetics, claiming she found the cat to be more visually appealing than the alternatives.
Kidman’s fondness for the cat goes beyond mere professionalism. She shared a personal connection, reminiscing about her own family’s black cat named Pinkle Purr, whose mother was a cat named Tattoo. With several pet cats at home and an interest in adopting a hairless sphynx, Kidman clearly has a genuine affection for feline co-stars.
In addition to the standout cat, the actresses discussed the emotional depth driving their characters in the sequel. Bullock explained that Sally chooses to erase her daughters’ memories of magic, believing it will shield them from heartache. However, this choice backfires, placing them in even greater peril.
The official trailer for ‘PRACTICAL MAGIC 2’ has been released.
In theaters this September. pic.twitter.com/zHZv6SoBWc
— Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) June 24, 2026
Kidman’s character Gillian challenges that instinct throughout the film, advocating that Sally’s daughters should understand their heritage and embrace their powers instead of hiding from them. This dynamic reflects the sisterly tension that made the original 1998 film a lasting favorite, even as the sequel introduces a new generation of Owens women portrayed by Joey King and Maisie Williams.
The returning cast also features Dianne Wiest as Aunt Jet and Stockard Channing as Aunt Franny, along with newcomers Lee Pace, Xolo Maridueña, and Solly McLeod. Together, this ensemble is tasked with continuing a story that has remained a cult favorite for nearly 30 years, despite the original film’s modest box office success upon release.
Regardless of how critics receive the sequel, it’s evident that one cast member has already captured the hearts of its stars, and it’s not even human. For a franchise centered around themes of family, sisterhood, and a bit of chaos, having a scene-stealing black cat along for the journey feels perfectly appropriate.
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