It’s official – the iconic Russo siblings are reuniting for a sequel series to the hit 2000s Disney Channel comedy “Wizards of Waverly Place.” Selena Gomez and David Henrie delighted fans by confirming the news that they will be reprising their roles as Alex and Justin Russo over a decade after the original show wrapped.
Selena Gomez and David Henrie made the announcement on their Instagram Stories with a photo of the script for the pilot episode, co-written by series veterans Jed Elinoff and Scott Thomas. While full plot details are under wraps, the sequel has been described as showcasing how the Russos have grown since we last saw them.
“We’re back! The Russo’s are excited to become a part of your family, once again, but we’ve grown…2024, the year magic comes back,” David Henrie captioned his post, alluding to an adventure-filled new chapter for TV’s favorite magical family.
Justin Russo Steps Up as Mentor While Alex Russo Makes Special Appearance
David Henrie is set to return as a series regular in the role of Justin Russo, who has apparently relinquished his wizard powers in favor of normal human life with his wife and two young sons. However, the appearance of a formidable young wizard at his doorstep needing training and mentorship draws Justin Russo back into the magical realm.
Selena Gomez will reprise her fan-favorite character Alex Russo as a guest star, no doubt popping in and out to cause some signature mischief for her older brother. Other key original Russo family members have yet to confirm their involvement but fans remain optimistic.
Newcomer Janice LeAnn Brown joins the cast as lead character Billie, described as a powerful, magically gifted girl who turns to Justin Russo for guidance in harnessing her abilities and securing the future of the Wizard World at large.
Original Series Was Groundbreaking Disney Channel Hit
“Wizards of Waverly Place” was created by Todd J. Greenwald and originally ran on Disney Channel from 2007 to 2012. It broke new ground in terms of ratings success and pop culture impact during its four hit seasons.
The series followed wizard siblings Alex Russo (Selena Gomez), Justin Russo (David Henrie) and Max Russo (Jake T. Austin) as they come of age while training in magic and vying to become the sole wizard-in-training in their family. Unique adventures and shenanigans ensue as they balance daily high school life with harnessing their magical abilities.
In addition to catapulting Selena Gomez’s career, “Wizards of Waverly Place” won multiple Emmys and became ingrained in millenial and Gen Z pop culture. Almost 15 years since its debut, the show still commands a passionate intergenerational fanbase clearly hungry for more Russo adventures.
High Hopes for New Chapter of Beloved Franchise
For both nostalgic fans of the original and a new generation being introduced to the Russos’ wild world of magic, the “Wizards of Waverly Place” sequel series offers high hopes. Backed by veteran creatives Jed Elinoff and Scott Thomas, with Selena Gomez and David Henrie leading the charge, the table seems set for a magical new chapter.
If the pilot lives up to expectations, the potential series order could see the Russos stabilize the Wizard World well into the 2020s, complete with all the family fun, humor and chaos fans adore. We can’t wait to see how the Russos have grown along with the loyal fans who are no doubt ready to enthusiastically welcome them back into their living rooms.