Like the promise of fall leaves changing, less-humid days and “Thriller” on repeat, tis the time for seasonal classics—only, this year, there’s a twist on a favorite with today’s release of Hocus Pocus 2, a sequel to the original that, after almost 30 years, brings the beloved trio of Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy (aka, “the infamous Sanderson Sisters”) back to the big screen. We recently caught up with 65-year-old Najimy, who shared a personal review of her career, as well as her thoughts on what makes this Halloween cult-classic click so much with audiences.
The most difficult thing about my career:
“Feeling bad about telling agents or managers that I’m not interested or passing on a project. I had a child, who is now 25 years old, and I wanted to spend every minute with her that I could while she was growing up.”
The most rewarding thing about it:
“My career has granted me a large platform that has allowed me to talk about the causes and issues I believe in. And some projects are really fun!”
What I would tell a young Kathy:
“I wish I could tell my younger self that every moment you’ve experienced—whether positive or hurtful—is going to benefit you beautifully for the rest of your life.”
What I wish I did more of:
“I’d like to work on paying more serious attention to my health, which is wildly uninteresting to me. That, and getting my backflips perfected!”
On Hocus Pocus becoming a Halloween staple:
“It feels surprising, but great! It’s fun to be part of something that has made such an impact on people’s childhoods!”
My approach to aging:
“A couple things: I have my mother’s great Lebanese skin! I eat pretty healthily—in fact, I’m eating edamame and hummus as we speak. But, full-disclosure, I’m addicted to bubble tea. I’d also like to say, we all know women are made to feel horrible about something they have no control over, and that is aging. The good news is that if you are aging, that means you are still alive!”
