As Selenators and devoted “Wizards of Waverly Place” fans eagerly await the highly anticipated reboot series, “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place,” the show’s executive producers and stars, Selena Gomez and David Henrie, are reflecting on their magical reunion.
Gomez and Henrie, who rose to fame as the beloved on-screen siblings Alex and Justin Russo, have reunited not only in front of the camera but also behind the scenes as co-executive producers. And according to the duo, it felt like coming home.
“It did feel like going home,” Gomez told The Hollywood Reporter at the show’s Los Angeles premiere. “When I showed it to my mom, she literally died laughing,” Gomez said. She said, ‘You two still have it,’ because I believe we bring out the best in each other.
The pair’s undeniable chemistry and genuine friendship have been a driving force in bringing the world of “Wizards” back to life for a new generation of fans. Henrie emphasized the importance of fostering a nurturing environment for the young cast, drawing from their own experiences as child actors.
Henrie explained, “We’ve both been doing this for a long time, and I think we seek to bring our best experiences forward when we’re working with young people—especially kids—so for me, it’s very much on the forefront of my mind to help enable an atmosphere that makes them the best they can be in that moment.”
Gomez added, “I think the only thing I can provide is the love and support that they’re going to need during this time because hopefully it’s a life-changing experience.” The actors’ longstanding friendship has been a source of strength throughout their careers, with Gomez noting the value of having someone in her life who knew her before the fame.
“I think for me, it’s so important that I have someone in my life that knew me before,” Gomez said. “Most of my friends are definitely people that I’ve learned to love and trust, but David was there the first time I ever experienced any sort of fame-like things, and I think he saw and continues to see through that. I appreciate his honesty.
For fans of the original series, “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place” promises to be a heartwarming “love letter” that honors the legacy of the beloved franchise while also inviting a new generation to discover the magic. Henrie described the reboot as “this big, warm hug to them, a love letter to them, but at the same time, just this invitation to pass the wand to a new generation.”
As Gomez and Henrie reprise their iconic roles, audiences can expect the same endearing sibling dynamic that captivated them over a decade ago. And with the duo’s shared experiences and unwavering friendship guiding the way, the future of the “Wizards” franchise looks brighter than ever. “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place” premieres on the Disney Channel on October 29, with new episodes airing weekly on Fridays.