Nicole Kidman made a surprise appearance at a special preview screening of the long-anticipated sequel to the 1998 cult film *Practical Magic* on Friday evening in Sydney. The Academy Award-winning actress, who had recently attended premieres in London and Los Angeles, joined an enthusiastic crowd of fans, competition winners, and content creators at the Hoyts Entertainment Quarter.
Addressing the audience, Kidman expressed gratitude for the enduring support of the film’s fanbase over nearly three decades. “It’s lovely, 28 years on, as women, to still be here,” she said, acknowledging the longevity of the franchise and the loyalty of its followers. Kidman also noted that her youngest daughter, Faith, was among those attending the screening.
Dressed in an elegant ruched off-white gown accented with a neck scarf and floral details, Kidman participated in a toast with fans, sharing one of the original movie’s iconic “midnight margaritas.” She greeted the crowd warmly, blowing kisses and clinking glasses with those in the front row.
*Practical Magic 2* is set to open in cinemas nationwide on Thursday. The sequel reunites Kidman and fellow Oscar winner Sandra Bullock, along with original cast members Dianne Wiest and Stockard Channing. Kidman conveyed a message from Bullock, who was unable to attend, noting that she was in Texas but sending her regards to the Sydney audience.
The new film expands the franchise by introducing younger cast members Joey King and Maisie Williams. Continuing the story of witch sisters Sally and Gillian Owens, portrayed by Kidman and Bullock, the sequel centers on a fresh challenge as the siblings confront a dark curse threatening their family.
The preview event included an in-cinema question-and-answer session hosted by Australian journalist Angela Bishop, a longtime friend of Kidman’s. Bishop emphasized Kidman’s pride in the project, highlighting the significance of a film initially noted for its focus on four female leads. The sequel broadens that representation further with six women spanning three generations, reflecting contemporary audience interests.
Bishop, who first met Kidman on the set of *BMX Bandits* where Kidman played the lead and Bishop appeared as an extra, remarked on the actress’s ongoing connection to her Australian roots. “Australia nurtures Nicole and she never takes that for granted,” Bishop said.
*Practical Magic 2* is expected to resonate with both loyal fans and new viewers by continuing the story of sisterhood, magic, and empowerment nearly 30 years after the original’s release.