Selena Gomez reveals why she reprise role in ‘Wizards of Waverly Place’ sequel

Selena Gomez Returns to ‘Wizards Beyond Waverly Place’ for Family, Legacy, and Nostalgia
LOS ANGELES, USA – Global superstar Selena Gomez has opened up about her decision to reprise her iconic role as Alex Russo in the Disney Channel sequel series Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, citing familial love, creative safety, and gratitude for the original show as key motivations. In a recent interview with Allure, Gomez emphasized that the reboot represents a “homecoming” and a tribute to the series that launched her career .

💫 Key Reasons for Gomez’s Return

1. Family and Personal Connections:

   • Gomez’s 12-year-old half-sister, Gracie, is an avid viewer of the reboot. Gomez stated, “My sister just gets a kick out of it, so half the reason I’m doing it is for her” .

   • She maintains close bonds with the original cast and crew, noting, “All of those people on the show with us have grown and evolved, and I want them to be in my life” .

2. Nostalgia and Gratitude:

   • Reflecting on her formative years filming the original series (2007–2012), Gomez acknowledged its profound impact: “I genuinely feel like I owe a big part of my life to that show” .

   • She described the set as a “safe” and supportive environment during her adolescence, a sentiment she aims to preserve for the new generation of actors .

3. Creative Collaboration and Mentorship:

   • As an executive producer, Gomez prioritized ensuring a positive experience for young cast members, including lead Janice LeAnn Brown (Billie). She and co-star David Henrie (Justin Russo) implemented safeguards like therapists and dialogue coaches to support the children .

   • Gomez emphasized passing on the legacy of kindness and collaboration from the original set, fostering a familial atmosphere for the new cast .

📺 Role and Impact in the Reboot

1. Guest Appearances as Alex Russo:

   • Gomez appears in multiple episodes as Alex Russo, now a member of the Wizard Tribunal. Her character recruits Justin to mentor young wizard Billie, tying the new storyline to the original series’ lore .

   • Despite her busy schedule (including Only Murders in the Building and a Linda Ronstadt biopic), Gomez ensured her involvement extended beyond cameos, influencing the show’s creative direction .

2. Cultural and Commercial Success:

   • The premiere episode became Disney Channel’s most-watched series debut on Disney+, garnering 3.2 million global views in its first 12 days .

   • The reboot has been praised for balancing nostalgia with new storylines, appealing to both original fans and a younger audience .

🌟 Broader Context and Future Plans

1. Season 2 Premiere:

   • Gomez confirmed her return for Season 2, which premieres on September 12, 2025. The new season will explore Billie’s challenges as Roman and Milo Russo also develop magical powers, escalating tensions within the family .

2. Legacy and Mentorship:

   • Gomez and Henrie intentionally recreated the original set’s collaborative spirit, reviving traditions like cast members signing the lair wall and playing on-set pranks .

   • The reboot addresses modern concerns for child actors, incorporating mental health support and ethical guidance—a contrast to Gomez’s own childhood experiences .

💎 Conclusion

Selena Gomez’s return to Wizards Beyond Waverly Place is a testament to her dedication to family, creative integrity, and the enduring magic of the Russo universe. By blending nostalgia with progressive values, she ensures the reboot honors its legacy while empowering a new generation of viewers and performers. As the series continues, Gomez’s involvement underscores her commitment to storytelling that is both joyful and meaningful