Practical Magic 2 returns with its enchanting story of family, magic, and love, captivating audiences once again. I sat down with cast members Xolo Maridueña, Solly McLeod, Stockard Channing, and Dianne Wiest to hear their thoughts on identity, magic, and what this film means for LGBTQ+ audiences. Here are the highlights from those conversations.
Q: Xolo, your character Gideon creates playlists for Kylie in the film. What three songs would you associate with your time working on Practical Magic 2?
Xolo Maridueña: I was listening a lot to Tyler, the Creator’s Don’t Tap the Glass album while in London. Also, a song by Labi Siffre really stuck with me.
Q: Solly, what about you?
Solly McLeod: I’d say Dancing in the Moonlight for sure. Also, any Johnny Cash song and September by Earth, Wind & Fire. Good vibes with a bit of darkness.
Q: Xolo, your name carries deep meaning and pride. How did that personal connection help you bring depth to Gideon?
Xolo Maridueña: Gideon doesn’t have traditional parental figures, and the idea of found family really resonates with me. I love that you can find role models and people you love, even if you weren’t born with them.
Q: Solly, how did you explore identity through Tom’s ties to ancestry and magic?
Solly McLeod: Playing someone quite different from myself was interesting. My family has witchy roots, especially my mum, so she was happy I was involved in this magical project. Exploring the history of witchcraft and trials in the UK was fascinating.
Q: Stockard and Dianne, your characters are iconic figures for many in the LGBTQ+ community. How do you live those values of courage and authenticity in your own lives?
Dianne Wiest: It’s about the responsibility to care for the people you love, whether family or friends. Finding that humanity inside yourself to connect and care is essential.
Stockard Channing: Kindness, even when it’s hard. You can always choose kindness.
Q: Can you recall the first time you truly felt magic on set?
Dianne Wiest: When I was in my early 20s performing The Threepenny Opera, singing the Pirate Jenny song during tech rehearsal, I felt everything come together emotionally and intellectually. It changed my life.
Stockard Channing: I was 16, playing Eliza in Pygmalion. That burning feeling inside told me this was what I was meant to do.
Q: Xolo and Solly, what do you hope LGBTQ+ audiences will take away from Practical Magic 2?
Solly McLeod: They might feel sad, but love and courage are about risking yourself to be with the person you love. That’s universal.
Xolo Maridueña: It’s going to be tea. The film really connects with the idea of love and courage.
Q: Stockard and Dianne, what values guide you in life and in your iconic roles?
Dianne Wiest: Caring deeply for others and embracing connection.
Stockard Channing: Kindness above all, even when it’s difficult.
Practical Magic 2 will be releasing in the UK and Ireland on 11th September 2026.