Get to Know the Actors Who Play the Young Sanderson Sisters

2 years ago

The highly anticipated sequel to the 1993 fantasy-comedy “Hocus Pocus” has finally arrived on Disney+, and the nostalgic reunion with the cult classic has many ’90s kids in their feels. The long-awaited follow-up to the original follows three modern-day Salem teenagers – Becca, Izzy, and Cassie – who unwittingly unleash the Sanderson witches with the infamous Black Flame Candle. They must race against time to thwart the wicked plans of the revenge-seeking sister trio before it’s too late.

“Hocus Pocus 2” marks the return of original cast members Sarah Jessica Parker, Bette Midler, and Kathy Najimy as the Sanderson sisters. Along with the iconic actors coming together nearly 30 years later, the sequel also introduces a lineup of up-and-coming talented young actors, including the trio who play the younger counterparts of the Sanderson sisters – Juju Journey Brener, Taylor Paige Henderson, Nina Kitchen. Though the sequel to the ultimate Halloween staple has Hollywood A-listers attached to it, the phenomenal performances of the young Sanderson sisters have bewitched viewers.

Meet the franchise’s newest stars bringing life to the young versions of the troublesome trio of “Hocus Pocus 2.”

Getty / Kristina Bumphrey

Who Plays Young Winifred Sanderson? Taylor Paige Henderson

Henderson portrays the younger version of the oldest Sanderson sister, Winifred, in the sequel. Henderson’s previous onscreen works include Investigation Discovery’s true-crime documentary series “Evil Lives Here” and voice-over for the titular character in the English version of 2020’s fantasy anime “Earwig and the Witch.” The young artist enjoys singing, painting, traveling, and classical ballet, according to the intro provided on her official website.

Henderson is a theater kid who has performed in various theatrical productions, including as the lead role of Alison in Amarillo Little Theatre’s production of musical “Fun Home,” based on Alison Bechdel’s 2006 graphic memoir of the same name.

Outside of acting, the Texas native is passionate about rescuing animals and committed to reducing the excessive population of animal shelters. She is also good friends with Brener, who plays her younger sibling in the Disney+ movie, in real life, as she recently shared a heartfelt birthday tribute to her “fave little star” on Instagram.

Getty / Kristina Bumphrey

Who Plays Young Mary Sanderson? Nina Kitchen

Kitchen plays the younger version of the middle Sanderson sister, Mary, in “Hocus Pocus 2.” Though the 14-year-old newcomer rarely posts on social media, her Instagram profile picture and bio suggest she’s a prolific dancer.

Getty / Kristina Bumphrey

Who Plays Young Sarah Sanderson? Juju Journey Brener

Brener slips into the role of the youngest Sanderson sister, Sarah, for the 2022 movie. The young talent has previously leant her talents to a handful of projects, including retro comedy “VHYes” and animated fantasy film “Red Shoes and the Seven Dwarfs.” For her performance in the Morgan Freeman action thriller “Vanquish,” Brener scored a nomination for best supporting actress at the 43rd Young Artist Academy Awards.

The talented 10-year-old actor, singer, dancer, and voice-over artist has been modeling ever since she was 6 weeks old. Her sister, Mila Brener, is also a model and actor, having appeared in “NCIS” and “Mom,” among other titles. Brener even featured in Miley Cyrus‘s 2017 music video for “Younger Now.” The rising star was recently announced as a brand ambassador for YMI Jeans. According to a chat with Pretty Faces Model Magazines, Brener loves to travel, play water sports, ski, paint, draw, and ride on roller coasters, among other interests.

Brener is a huge dog-lover and often dotes on her pet dog on social media, a rescue named Pixie. In fact, Pixie has an an Instagram account dedicated solely to her adorable snaps and clips with the Brener family.