Key points:
- Sandra Bullock praised Nicole Kidman during a new PEOPLE interview.
- Bullock told Kidman she is “here for a very big reason.”
- The actresses have been friends for nearly 30 years.
- They reunite as Sally and Gillian Owens in Practical Magic 2.
- Both stars also serve as producers on the sequel.
Sandra Bullock has praised longtime friend and co-star Nicole Kidman, telling her that she is “here for a very big reason” as the pair prepare to return as sisters in Practical Magic 2. The actresses discussed their nearly three-decade friendship in a new PEOPLE interview published ahead of the sequel’s theatrical release.
Bullock and Kidman first played sisters Sally and Gillian Owens in the 1998 fantasy film Practical Magic. Nearly 30 years later, they have reunited for the sequel, again portraying the Owens sisters. Both actresses also serve as producers on the new film.
During their conversation, the two stars reflected on the compliments they have exchanged over the years. Bullock joked about Kidman’s appearance, while Kidman praised Bullock’s skin. The conversation then turned more personal, with the actresses discussing how their outlooks on life have changed.
Kidman said she has become much more open with age after once being “incredibly shy.” Bullock, meanwhile, described herself as someone who had been very guarded but ultimately found it difficult not to love people.
Bullock then offered Kidman a more heartfelt assessment of her abilities and purpose.
“I don’t think Nicole hears that she is everything she wants to be capable of,” Bullock said, adding that Kidman is capable of exceeding even those expectations. She continued by telling her friend that she was “here for a very big reason.”
Kidman returned the praise, telling Bullock that she “heal[s] people” and has “the biggest, biggest heart.” The exchange reflected the long-standing personal connection between the two actresses, which has continued well beyond their work together.
Their reunion comes as Practical Magic 2 reaches theaters after the original film developed a strong following years after its 1998 release. The sequel continues the story of the Owens family and introduces a younger generation of witches, played by Joey King and Maisie Williams.
According to AP, the original Practical Magic initially received mixed reviews and had a modest theatrical performance before gaining cult status with a new generation of viewers.
Practical Magic 2 is scheduled for its global theatrical rollout beginning September 9, with the film listed for U.S. theaters on September 11 by AP.
