Everything is what it seems. The Russos are back!
Photo: Bob D’Amico/Disney Channel
At last, the eldest boy has emerged victorious in some way. David Henrie has committed to lead a Wizards of Waverly Place reboot pilot, reprising his role as the oldest wizard sibling Justin Russo. He’s also taking on the role of executive producer alongside his onscreen sister Selena Gomez, who will also be making a guest appearance. Reboot veterans Jed Elinoff and Scott Thomas of Raven’s Home are penning and producing the pilot. According to Deadline, the potential series would track Justin as he relinquishes his wizard powers after an enigmatic mishap at WizTech, a wizarding school — not a tech company. He isn’t a tech bro in this timeline. It’s almost rewriting history because the original series concluded with Justin retaining his powers. He does have to rekindle his magical side when required to train a young wizard named Billie (Janice LeAnn Brown) to rescue the wizarding world.
It’s an unexpected choice for the lead, given Gomez’s portrayal as Alex propelled her career and became a characteristic for teenagers everywhere. She wouldn’t have the time to wrap up in her old costumes, though— she’s too preoccupied shaping into Linda Ronstadt, where the only magic is in her voice. Even Max, the heir to the sandwich shop portrayed by Jake T. Austin, would’ve been enjoyable to accompany. We’re getting a former head wizard who can’t even wield magic anymore, residing in an unfamiliar setting (hopefully, he’ll find his way back to Waverly Place). Additionally, he has two sons. Two boys! Not even a miniature Alex to torment him in his adult life. In this rendition, there’s no fan service as Justin isn’t even with Juliet — his wife in the reboot is someone named Giada (Mimi Gianopulos). Perhaps we can summon a new incantation to infuse a bit more vitality into the upcoming pilot: Can this show become any more heartwarming? Please bring back Bridget Mendler.
