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Credit: Warner Bros.Major developments, including some casting updates, are occurring as we inch closer to the release of the all-new Beetlejuice film.
The anticipation for Beetlejuice 2, officially titled Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, is growing among fans who have been eagerly awaiting the return of Tim Burton’s iconic supernatural comedy. The original Beetlejuice (1988) captivated audiences with its unique blend of dark humor, quirky characters, and imaginative visual effects.
The sequel promises to bring back beloved elements from the first film while introducing new twists and characters that will add fresh excitement to the franchise. With Michael Keaton reprising his role as the mischievous ghost and Winona Ryder returning as Lydia Deetz, fans are thrilled to see how their characters have evolved and what new spectral hijinks await.
Adding to the excitement is the involvement of Jenna Ortega, known for her recent breakout role in Wednesday (2022), who is set to join the cast, bringing a new generation of talent to the film. Tim Burton’s unique vision and style are expected to shine once again, creating a visually stunning and whimsically eerie atmosphere.
The production’s blend of nostalgia and modern storytelling has generated significant buzz, making Beetlejuice Beetlejuice one of the most eagerly anticipated films in recent years. However, there are some intriguing casting updates happening behind the scenes.
First reported by Tim Burton Daily, it has been shared that another Beetlejuice could make his way into the film.
Alex Brightman has garnered widespread acclaim for his portrayal of the titular character in the Broadway musical Beetlejuice. Known for his boundless energy, dynamic stage presence, and remarkable vocal prowess, Brightman brought a fresh and electrifying interpretation to the beloved character originally made famous by Michael Keaton in the 1988 film.
His performance in the musical, which premiered on Broadway in 2019, was a tour de force that captured the chaotic charm and mischievous spirit of Beetlejuice, earning him a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical.
According to the report, Brightman could be making a cameo in the film. It’s unclear if this will just be a strict cameo moment or if he, too, could play the role of Beetlejuice alongside Michael Keaton in some form or capacity.
Alex Brightman, famous for playing Beetlejuice in the musical, is likely to make a cameo in #BeetlejuiceBeetlejuice
(via: @TimBurtonDaily) pic.twitter.com/6aYkJxWgon
— Beetlejuice 2 – Fan Account (@Beetlejuice2Fan) July 8, 2024
The first performance of Beetlejuice The Musical took place in 2018, effectively allowing Brightman to become the replacement for Michael Keaton. Now, six years later, Keaton will be taking his role back and reprising the role that he has yet to play again since 1988 when the first film was released.
Before his iconic role in Beetlejuice, Brightman had already established himself as a versatile and talented performer in the world of musical theater.
He made a significant impact with his role as Dewey Finn in the Broadway adaptation of School of Rock (2015), where his comedic timing and rock-star energy shone through, leading to another Tony nomination. Brightman’s ability to seamlessly blend humor, heart, and a touch of anarchy has made him a standout in the industry, endearing him to audiences and critics alike.
Brightman’s portrayal of Beetlejuice has not only solidified his reputation as a leading man in musical theater but has also introduced a new generation to the quirky and irreverent world of the Beetlejuice franchise.
Of course, Michael Keaton’s portrayal of Beetlejuice in the original 1988 film remains one of his most iconic and memorable roles. Keaton brought an unparalleled level of chaotic energy and dark humor to the mischievous bio-exorcist, creating a character that was both wildly unpredictable and irresistibly charming. His performance, marked by rapid-fire dialogue, eccentric mannerisms, and a uniquely macabre charisma, became a defining element of Tim Burton’s cult classic.
The official description for the sequel can be read below:
“Three generations of the Deetz family return home to Winter River after an unexpected family tragedy. Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia’s life soon gets turned upside down when her rebellious teenage daughter discovers a mysterious portal to the afterlife. When someone says Beetlejuice’s name three times, the mischievous demon gleefully returns to unleash his very own brand of mayhem.”
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is set to release in theaters on September 6, 2024.