More than 30 years after the first “Beetlejuice” film hit theaters, the long-awaited sequel is finally here. But it took a unique set of circumstances for this project to come together.
By Joseph Gutierrez
Returning Stars and New Faces
Tim Burton brings back many familiar faces for the “Beetlejuice” sequel. Michael Keaton returns as the mischievous demon Beetlejuice, with Winona Ryder and Catherine O’Hara reprising their iconic roles as Lydia and Delia Deetz. However, the key addition to the sequel is Jenna Ortega, who plays Astrid, Lydia’s daughter. According to O’Hara, “Jenna had to be born and become an actress for this film to be possible.”
Inspiration Behind the Sequel
O’Hara credits Burton’s collaboration with Ortega as the catalyst for the sequel. While working together on the hit Netflix series “Wednesday,” Burton offered Ortega the role in “Beetlejuice 2.” Ortega recalls, “I was in a meeting for ‘Wednesday,’ and Tim just dropped the ‘Beetlejuice’ script in my lap.” Enthusiastic about the opportunity, she accepted without hesitation.
Returning to an Iconic World
For Ryder and O’Hara, returning to the “Beetlejuice” universe was both professionally and personally rewarding. Ryder described the experience as incomparable, praising Burton’s ability to blend genres and create an environment where creativity thrives. “It was incredible to dive back into this world,” Ryder said, appreciating the chance to reunite with Burton’s imaginative vision.
Could There Be a Third Film?
While it took over 30 years for the second “Beetlejuice” film to come together, the cast is open to another sequel. Ryder, O’Hara, and Ortega have all expressed interest in returning for a potential third film if Burton chooses to continue the story. O’Hara joked, “Let’s hope it doesn’t take another 30 years!”
The return of “Beetlejuice” proves that some stories are worth the wait. Whether there will be a third film remains to be seen, but the door is certainly open.
Based on content from www.edition.cnn.com and additional research.