Prepare to be spellbound as the Russo family announces their highly-anticipated return in the reboot of the iconic Disney Channel show, "Wizards of Waverly Place"!
On January 18, David Henrie, the actor behind the beloved and bossy older brother Justin Russo, shared the exciting news through a TikTok video featuring a compilation of nostalgic clips from their past episodes. Additionally, he took to Instagram to post an image of the script book from their pilot episode, further delighting fans with the anticipated revival.
After Henrie officially announced the return, Selena Gomez confirmed her comeback through a series of Instagram stories. She shared screenshots of the Deadline article that first broke the news, expressing her excitement. In addition, she posted a picture of Alex and Justin in the neon New York City apartment everyone knows, expressing that she can’t wait for the two to grace our screens again.
With both stars confirming their return, social media erupted with speculation about which other original cast members would be making a comeback in the highly-anticipated revival.
“The reboot is giving us all a way to enjoy the show and cast we grew up with. I used to walk around with a pencil in my UGG boot and pretend I was like Alex Russo with her wand,” said junior finance major Julia Duca.
David Deluise, who plays Mr. Russo, had no idea when it was announced about the reboot. He commented “Reboot ?” on Henrie’s Instagram announcement, sending fans into a frenzy that the iconic wizard dad would not return.
Since then, he has confirmed he will be back in an Instagram photo with Henrie, Gomez and the original Mrs. Russo, played by Maria Canals-Barrera. The post was captioned “The Russos ❤️🪄coming back,” but one was still missing.
Jake T. Austin, who played the youngest sibling, Max Russo, has maintained a low profile since facing controversies leading to his departure from "The Fosters" during the show's second season in 2015. However, he recently sparked speculation about a potential comeback when he shared a photo of the Russo family reunion on his Instagram story, expressing excitement by captioning it, "Wow! Am looking forward to getting together with my wizards family."
This post ignited internet madness, with fans speculating about his possible return. None of the original cast members have officially confirmed his participation in the anticipated revival.
“It wouldn’t be the same without Max,” said junior criminal justice major Audra Zumwalt, “He was the silly little brother that made everyone laugh.”
Nevertheless, the revival is underway, and fans who grew up with the show eagerly anticipate the return of the Waverly Sub Station. “I just can’t wait for the nostalgia,” said junior nursing major Zahra Ahmed, “I don't really mind what the storyline is; I'm just excited to witness how their story continues.” While the plot remains a mystery, anticipation grows as fans wait to see the same Russo family they grew up with. No doubt the magic spark they once graced Disney Channel with is still there all these years later.