“Hocus Pocus” Star Tobias Jelinek Remembers Filming With ‘Larger than Life’ Bette Midler: ‘We Had a Blast’ (Exclusive)

‘Hocus Pocus’ Star Tobias Jelinek Recalls Memorable Experience Filming with the ‘Larger than Life’ Bette Midler

Tobias Jelinek, known for his role in the Halloween classic ‘Hocus Pocus,’ recently shared his nostalgic memories of working alongside the iconic Bette Midler. At just 15 years old, Jelinek landed a role in the beloved movie, describing the experience as surreal. In a recent interview with PEOPLE, the 48-year-old actor reminisced about his time on set with the star-studded cast, highlighting Midler’s captivating presence.

Jelinek fondly recalled Midler as “larger than life” and praised Kathy Najimy, who played Mary in the film, as his personal favourite. The actor revealed that witnessing Midler, Najimy, and Sarah Jessica Parker in action was a remarkable experience. He credited director Kenny Ortega for his brilliance in nurturing the young cast members’ talents and pushing them to deliver their best performances. Jelinek expressed his admiration for Ortega’s ability to create a safe and playful environment on set.

The actor also shared his fond memories of bonding with his co-stars Omri Katz, Thora Birch, and Vinessa Shaw, describing the camaraderie among the younger cast members as joyful. Reflecting on the filming process, Jelinek emphasised the fun and excitement of shooting in Salem, Massachusetts, and the thrill of being part of a whimsical Halloween-themed movie. Despite the initial underwhelming reception of ‘Hocus Pocus’ upon its release, Jelinek acknowledged the film’s enduring popularity and cult following in later years.

As the years passed, ‘Hocus Pocus’ found a new generation of fans, much to Jelinek’s delight. He revealed that fan conventions and reunions with his co-stars have become a cherished tradition, allowing them to connect with audiences who hold the film close to their hearts. Sharing an amusing anecdote, Jelinek recounted how one fan’s parents used a scene from the movie to broach the topic of the birds and bees with their child, showcasing the lasting impact of ‘Hocus Pocus.’

Jelinek and his former co-stars annually gather for a Halloween event in Salem called ‘It’s Just A Buncha Halloween,’ where they engage with fans through screenings, trivia, and commentary sessions. This event, now in its third year, coincides with Salem’s 400th anniversary, adding a special significance to the celebrations. The actor expressed his appreciation for the continued legacy of ‘Hocus Pocus,’ noting how the film’s appeal has transcended generations and remained a Halloween favourite.

In conclusion, Tobias Jelinek’s reflections on his time filming ‘Hocus Pocus’ serve as a testament to the enduring magic of the beloved movie. As fans eagerly await the possibility of a sequel, the nostalgia and joy evoked by the original film continue to enchant audiences of all ages. With Bette Midler’s unforgettable performance and the timeless charm of Salem’s spooky tale, ‘Hocus Pocus’ remains a cherished classic that captures the spirit of Halloween for fans old and new.