AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.
- calendar_today October 31, 2026
An Unforgettable Halloween Encounter in Salem
A young fan of the 1993 film Hocus Pocus experienced a magical Halloween surprise while visiting Salem. Nine-year-old Taylor Nuss, dressed as her favorite character Dani Dennison, got the rare opportunity to meet two of the film’s original cast members in person and even recreate a classic scene from the movie.
Dressed as Dani Dennison for Halloween
Taylor Nuss chose to wear a Dani Dennison costume for her Halloween celebration in Salem. Dani, portrayed originally by Thora Birch, is beloved among Hocus Pocus fans for her brave and witty personality. Taylor’s costume paid homage to the memorable character from the Disney Halloween classic.
Chance Meeting With Hocus Pocus Actors
During Taylor’s visit to Salem, she and her family encountered Larry Bagby and Tobias Jelinek, the actors who played the mischievous bullies Ice and Jay in the hocus pocus movie. The actors were in Salem, a city famously featured in the film and associated with its supernatural storyline.
Recreating a Scene From the 1993 Classic
Recognizing Bagby and Jelinek, Taylor jumped at the chance to interact with the hocus pocus actors. According to a recent PEOPLE report, she delivered one of Dani’s memorable lines—“Drop dead”—to the actors, mimicking a famous moment from the hocus pocus scene in which Dani stands up to Ice and Jay. The impromptu exchange delighted both Taylor and those who witnessed the scene, making it a memorable Salem encounter for the young fan and the actors alike.
Cultural Legacy of 'Hocus Pocus'
Since its 1993 release, Hocus Pocus starring Sarah Jessica Parker, Bette Midler, and Kathy Najimy has become a perennial favorite among Halloween classics. Its themes, charismatic hocus pocus characters, and memorable setting have made it a source of inspiration for countless fans, especially during Halloween festivities in Salem, a city that remains closely tied to the film’s legacy.
A Special Moment for a Young Fan
Taylor’s experience highlights the lasting impact that the hocus pocus movie has had on multiple generations. Her spontaneous recreation of a scene with the film’s original bullies demonstrates the strong connection fans continue to feel with the beloved Halloween classic. From dressing up in a Dani Dennison costume to meeting the actors in Salem, Taylor’s story encapsulates the joy and fun that Hocus Pocus continues to inspire each year.
Source: boston.com.
