The Surprising Casting of Hocus Pocus
Actor Sean Murray, best known for his role as Special Agent Timothy McGee on the television series NCIS, has shared an intriguing behind-the-scenes secret about the 1993 Halloween classic Hocus Pocus. According to Murray, Leonardo DiCaprio was initially expected to play the lead role of Max Dennison in the film.
Murray, who portrayed Thackery Binx in the movie, revealed this information during an interview on the The Patrick Labyorteaux podcast. At the time, DiCaprio had already been considered for the part, but he ultimately declined the role in favor of starring in the 1993 film What's Eating Gilbert Grape. This decision would later earn him his first Oscar nomination.
A Missed Opportunity
Murray expressed confusion at the time about why DiCaprio chose a “strange indie film” over what was essentially a big Disney production. He admitted that he didn’t fully understand the reasoning behind the actor’s choice.
Despite the initial casting changes, Hocus Pocus did not perform well at the box office when it first premiered in 1993. It only grossed $48.7 million worldwide, according to Box Office Mojo. However, the film has since gained a cult following and is now widely regarded as a beloved Halloween classic.
From Flop to Cult Favorite
Murray acknowledged that Hocus Pocus didn’t have a strong theatrical run, but he credited Disney’s marketing efforts for its eventual success. “Through rentals, through VHS... it became a thing that people were watching and got into,” he said.
He also shared a personal anecdote about the film’s premiere. On the night of the release, Murray went to a theater in Universal City and hid in the back to watch the movie. “Watching myself on-screen terrified me,” he recalled. “And I remember, I didn't know what a panic attack was until that evening. I’ve never been more terrified in my life.”
The Role of Thackery Binx
In the film, Murray’s character, Thackery Binx, becomes a victim of the Sanderson Sisters, who turn him into an immortal cat. The cat version of Thackery was voiced by Jason Marsden.
Even today, the experience still lingers with Murray. “Maybe that was so traumatizing that that’s why I don’t watch myself typically,” he said. “Because I remember watching myself on a giant screen and going, ‘Oh my god, I can’t handle this. I can’t handle this.’”
Legacy of the Film
While Hocus Pocus may not have been a hit upon its initial release, it has since become a staple of Halloween entertainment. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the charm of the story and the performances of the cast.
As the film continues to be enjoyed by new generations, it serves as a reminder of how some movies can find their true audience over time.