The “Wizards of Waverly Place” follow-up has received an official series order from Disney.
The show brings together former stars Selena Gomez and David Henrie, with Gomez making a guest appearance in the first episode and Henrie taking on a leading role. Gomez and Henrie will also serve as executive producers. The production is scheduled to start next month, and the show is expected to debut on Disney Channel and Disney+ later this year.
The new series, tentatively titled “Wizards,” will focus on adult Justin Russo as he tries to live a normal life with his family, while dealing with magical challenges.
The show's official description reads: “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.”
Ayo Davis, president of Disney Branded Television, expressed excitement about revisiting the world of ‘Wizards of Waverly Place’ and looks forward to engaging both old and new fans of the show alongside Selena, David, and the cast and crew.
The new cast includes Janice LeAnn Brown as the powerful wizard Billie, Alkaio Thiele as Justin's oldest son, Roman, and Mimi Gianopulos as Justin’s wife, Giada. Max Matenko has also been added to the cast as Justin’s youngest son, Milo.
“Wizards” is penned and executive produced by Jed Elinoff and Scott Thomas, who are executive producing with Gary Marsh. Andy Fickman directed and executive produced the pilot which was greenlit in mid January and will also direct multiple episodes. The show was commissioned in mid Januaryand is set to direct multiple episodes.
The original “Wizards of Waverly Place” series aired from October 2007 to January 2012 and featured Gomez, Henrie, Jake T. Austin, David DeLuise, Maria Canals-Barrera and Jennifer Stone. The TV movie “Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie” was released in 2009, while “The Wizards Return: Alex vs. Alex” premiered in 2013.
