After more than 12 years since the series ended its run on Disney Channel. the magic of Wizards of Waverly Place is being recreated for a new generation.
On Friday, Disney released a first look at the sitcom’s long-awaited sequel series, Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, during the premiere of Descendants: The Rise of Red. The two-minute video below shows Selena Gomez, who played the central character Alex Russo, embracing and almost longing for her past, while her brother Justin (played by David Henrie) attempts to avoid repeating it.
“This is where it all started,” Gomez says to Henrie in behind-the-scenes footage. “We’re home!”
Wizards of Waverly Place aired for four seasons, from 2007 to 2012. The reboot, which premieres later this year on Disney Channel and Disney+, “follows an adult Justin Russo, who has chosen to lead a normal, mortal life with his family, Giada, Roman and Milo,” according to the official series description. “When Justin’s sister Alex brings Billie to his home seeking help, Justin realizes he must dust off his magical skills to mentor the wizard-in-training while also juggling his everyday responsibilities — and safeguarding the future of the Wizard World.”
Both Gomez, who only stars in the first episode, and Henri are executive producers. As for the cast, it includes Alkaio Thiele (as Roman Russo), Max Matenko (as Milo Russo), Taylor Cora (as Winter), and Mimi Gianopulos (as Giada Russo).
Another scene from the teaser shows the siblings interacting, as they talk about Billie, the newest wizard, portrayed by Janice LeAnn Brown. Her credits include playing young Rue in Euphoria.
Disney/Eric McCandless
“Billie is rebellious and stubborn and sarcastic…,” Alex warns her brother in the clip.
“Sounds like someone else I know,” Justin retorts.
“Ha ha,” his sister says sarcastically to laughs from the studio audience. “Like me, I get it.”
Alex also visits the family’s lair, which is where the Russos used to learn and practice their magic.
“This takes me back!” she says upon stepping into the space.
Disney/Eric McCandless
There’s plenty of new magic, too, as Billie scrambles an egg and makes someone invisible.
Whatever happens, the Only Murders in the Building star is with Billie.
“Us rebels, we gotta stick together,” says Gomez.