For fans who grew up watching the magical misadventures of the Russo family, "Wizards of Waverly Place" wasn't just another Disney Channel sitcom—it was a formative part of their childhood. From its debut in 2007, the show cast a spell, introducing us to Alex, Justin, and Max, three wizard siblings navigating the hilarious and often complicated world of growing up in New York City, all while keeping their powers a secret. But what happened after the final spell was cast? The journeys of the Wizards of Waverly Place cast & behind-the-scenes stories are as captivating as the show itself, filled with incredible career highs, personal challenges, and heartwarming reunions.
At a Glance: The Enduring Magic of "Wizards"
- The Show's Run: "Wizards of Waverly Place" enchanted audiences for four seasons, spanning 106 episodes from 2007 to 2012.
- Core Premise: Followed the Russo children—Alex, Justin, and Max—as they trained in wizardry under their ex-wizard father, Jerry, while their mortal mother, Theresa, kept them grounded.
- Star-Making Role: Launched Selena Gomez into superstardom, paving the way for a multifaceted career in music, acting, and production.
- Post-Show Success: The main cast members have gone on to achieve significant milestones across film, television, music, and even healthcare.
- A Magical Return: A highly anticipated sequel series, co-produced by Selena Gomez and David Henrie, is set to debut in 2024, bringing Justin Russo back to the screen.
- Behind-the-Scenes Bonds: The cast maintained strong friendships, evidenced by collaborations, personal support, and a popular rewatch podcast.
The Wand That Started It All: A Brief Look Back
"Wizards of Waverly Place" wasn't just a fantasy series; it was a relatable coming-of-age story wrapped in a cloak of magic. At its heart was the Russo family: Jerry (David DeLuise), the former wizard father, Theresa (Maria Canals-Barrera), the mortal mother, and their three spell-casting children, Alex (Selena Gomez), Justin (David Henrie), and Max (Jake T. Austin). The show brilliantly blended everyday teenage dilemmas with the extraordinary challenges of mastering wizardry, all culminating in the much-debated "Wizard Competition" that determined which sibling would keep their powers. Its unique premise and endearing characters quickly made it a fan favorite, solidifying its place among other beloved Disney Channel shows from the 2000s.
The Russo Clan: Where Their Journeys Took Them
The true magic of "Wizards of Waverly Place" lay in its dynamic cast. These young actors grew up on screen, and their journeys post-Waverly Place have been just as diverse and compelling. Let's delve into the lives and careers of the beloved cast members.
Selena Gomez as Alex Russo: From Mischievous Wizard to Global Icon
As Alex Russo, Selena Gomez perfected the role of the sarcastic, free-spirited, and often mischievous middle child who consistently found herself in magical predicaments. Her portrayal of Alex endeared her to millions, making her a household name long before the show's finale.
Even before "Wizards," Gomez was no stranger to the screen, having started her career at the tender age of 10 on "Barney & Friends." But it was her time as Alex Russo that truly launched her into the stratosphere. Since the show concluded in 2012, Gomez has cultivated an astonishingly successful career that spans music, film, television, and production.
On the music front, Gomez has achieved remarkable success. She initially released three albums with her band, Selena Gomez & the Scene, all of which landed in the Billboard 200 Top 10. Her solo career took off with albums like "Stars Dance" (2013), featuring the No. 1 hit "Come & Get It," followed by "Revival" (2015) and "Rare" (2020), which also hit No. 1. Her Spanish-language EP "Revelación" even earned a Grammy nomination. With six albums and 17 U.S. Top 40 hits, including the chart-topping "Lose You to Love Me," Selena Gomez's dynamic music career has proven her staying power as a global pop star.
Her filmography is equally impressive, showcasing her versatility. She lent her voice to the character of Mavis Dracula in the "Hotel Transylvania" franchise, appearing in the original (2012) and three sequels. Live-action roles include "Monte Carlo" (2011), the critically acclaimed "Spring Breakers" (2012), "Getaway" (2013), and "Neighbors 2."
On television, Gomez has continued to shine. She currently stars in Hulu's hit comedy "Only Murders in the Building," which began its third season in August 2023. Her performance has garnered Golden Globe and Emmy nominations, further solidifying her status as a respected actress. Beyond acting, she's made a significant mark as a producer, notably on Netflix's "13 Reasons Why" (2017–2020), and created and starred in "Selena + Chef" (2020) for Max, earning a Daytime Emmy nomination.
Gomez has also used her platform to openly discuss her health challenges, including her diagnosis with lupus in 2015, which led to a kidney transplant in 2017, and her bipolar disorder diagnosis in 2020. These experiences were intimately shared in the 2022 AppleTV+ documentary "Selena Gomez: My Mind and Me," offering fans a candid look at her life beyond the spotlight. Through it all, she's remained close with many of her "Wizards" co-stars, particularly David Henrie, and has often expressed her profound happiness and gratitude for her time on the show. For an even deeper dive into her character's journey, Explore Alex Russos story.
David Henrie as Justin Russo: The Brainy Big Brother's New Role
David Henrie brought to life Justin Russo, the studious, rule-abiding eldest wizard sibling who, in the show's finale, ascended to become the head of WizTech academy. Justin was the perfect foil to Alex, often exasperated by her antics but always there for his family.
Before his "Wizards" fame, Henrie was already a familiar face on television, notably playing Luke in "How I Met Your Mother." After the magic ended on Waverly Place, Henrie continued to pursue acting, appearing in films such as "Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2" (2015), "Little Boy" (2015), and "Walt Before Mickey" (2015).
Beyond acting, Henrie has expanded his creative horizons. He co-wrote and directed the teen comedy-drama "This Is the Year" (2020), a project that saw him reunite with Selena Gomez, who served as an executive producer. This move marked a significant step in David Henrie's burgeoning directing career. Fans can also look forward to seeing him in the upcoming biopic "Reagan," where he's set to portray the young adult President.
In his personal life, Henrie married Maria Cahill in 2017 and is now a proud father of three children. His family life has been a recurring theme on his social media, showcasing a grounded and joyful existence.
The most exciting news for "Wizards" fans came in January 2024 with the announcement of the highly anticipated Wizards of Waverly Place sequel. Henrie is not only co-producing the series with Selena Gomez but will also reprise his role as an adult Justin Russo. In the new series, Justin is married with two sons and has deliberately left his wizard powers behind to work at WizTech, setting the stage for a compelling new chapter in the Russo family's magical legacy.
Jake T. Austin as Max Russo: From Pranks to Protagonist
Jake T. Austin portrayed Max Russo, the youngest and most often comically misguided of the wizard siblings. Max's journey involved plenty of mischievous spells and a memorable stint as a girl (Maxine) due to a botched spell. In the finale, he surprisingly inherited the family sandwich shop, a fittingly quirky end for his character.
Austin's career started early, lending his voice to the beloved character of Diego in "Dora the Explorer" (2005–2010) and its spin-off, "Go, Diego, Go" (2005–2011). Following his time on "Wizards," he transitioned to film with roles in "Hotel for Dogs" (2009) and continued his prolific voice work as Fernando in "Rio" (2011) and "Rio 2" (2014), and as Alex in "The Emoji Movie" (2017). Jake T. Austin's impressive voice acting roles have been a consistent thread throughout his career.
On television, Austin starred in the popular Freeform series "The Fosters" from 2013 to 2015. He also reunited with his former TV mom, Maria Canals-Barrera, in the animated film "Teen Titans: The Judas Contract" (2017), where he voiced Blue Beetle, a role he also played in other DC animated series like "Justice League vs. Teen Titans" (2016) and "Justice League Action" (2017).
In 2016, Austin showcased a different talent, competing on "Dancing with the Stars." His most recent role was in the 2020 independent crime drama "Adverse," demonstrating his continued exploration of diverse acting projects.
Jennifer Stone as Harper Finkle: Alex's Fashion-Forward Best Friend
Jennifer Stone charmed audiences as Harper Finkle, Alex's quirky, non-wizard best friend. Harper was known for her eccentric, often self-designed, and always colorful fashion, providing endless comic relief and unwavering loyalty to Alex.
During her tenure on "Wizards," Stone also starred in TV movies like "Harriet the Spy: Blog Wars" (2009) and "Mean Girls 2" (2011). After the series wrapped, she ventured into horror projects, including Nickelodeon's "Deadtime Stories" (2012–2013) and the film "Nothing Left to Fear" (2013).
However, Stone's post-"Wizards" journey took a particularly inspiring turn. In 2013, she received a Type 1 diabetes diagnosis. This personal health challenge deeply impacted her and motivated her to co-write, produce, and star in the film "The In-Between" (2019), which explored themes related to her experience. In a remarkable career pivot, Stone became a registered nurse in 2020, actively joining the front lines during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her dedication to healthcare showcased a profound commitment to helping others.
In February 2023, Stone delighted fans by reuniting with David DeLuise (Jerry Russo) to co-host the highly successful "Wizards of Waverly Pod," a rewatch podcast where they share behind-the-scenes stories and react to episodes, bringing the magic back in a new format.
Maria Canals-Barrera as Theresa Russo: The Mortal Matriarch's Enduring Voice
Maria Canals-Barrera grounded the magical chaos as Theresa Russo, the pragmatic and loving mortal matriarch of the wizard family. Her exasperation with her children's magic and her unwavering love for her family made her a relatable and essential character.
During her time on "Wizards," Canals-Barrera also appeared in another Disney Channel favorite, "Camp Rock" (2008). Post-"Wizards," she starred as Daniela in ABC's sitcom "Cristela" (2014).
Canals-Barrera boasts an extensive and distinguished voice-acting career, demonstrating incredible range. She famously voiced Hawkgirl in "Justice League" and "Justice League Unlimited," and took on roles in "Batman: The Dark Knight Returns" films and "Vixen: The Movie" (2017). Her voice work is so prevalent that she reunited with Jake T. Austin (Max) in "Teen Titans: The Judas Contract" (2017). Since 2022, she has reprised her role as Sunset Boulevardez on Disney+'s "The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder," delighting a new generation of viewers and original fans alike.
In her personal life, Canals-Barrera has been married to actor David Barrera since 1999 and is a proud mother of two daughters.
David DeLuise as Jerry Russo: From Wizard to Wiz-Dad to Podcast Host
David DeLuise played Jerry Russo, the affable and often bumbling father who, as a former wizard, chose to give up his powers to marry his mortal wife, Theresa. Jerry served as the children's wizardry instructor, often offering questionable advice with good intentions.
Before "Wizards," DeLuise was recognized for his role as Bug Pollone on "3rd Rock from the Sun" (1996–2001) and had guest appearances on popular shows like "Gilmore Girls" and "ER." He also contributed his voice to "Megas XLR" (2004–2005). During the run of "Wizards," DeLuise stepped behind the camera, directing six episodes of the show, showcasing his talents beyond acting.
After the series concluded, DeLuise continued acting in various films, including "Pup Star" (2016) and "Unbroken: Path to Redemption" (2018). He also made guest appearances on acclaimed television series such as "NCIS," "Shameless," and "This Is Us."
In 2023, DeLuise joined his former co-star Jennifer Stone to co-host the popular "Wizards of Waverly Pod" podcast. This venture has allowed them to reconnect with the show's legacy and share intimate behind-the-scenes anecdotes with their devoted fanbase. DeLuise married Julia Stoepel in 2019 and has two children from a previous marriage.
The Enduring Bonds: Behind-the-Scenes Chemistry and Lifelong Friendships
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the "Wizards of Waverly Place" legacy is the genuine camaraderie that blossomed among the cast. It's clear that the on-screen family dynamic extended well beyond the soundstage.
Selena Gomez and David Henrie, in particular, maintained a close bond, frequently supporting each other's projects and personal milestones. Their friendship is a testament to the strong connections forged during their formative years on the show. This enduring relationship is a significant factor in the revival, with both stars not only reprising their roles but also stepping into executive producer positions, demonstrating their continued investment in the "Wizards" universe.
Jennifer Stone and David DeLuise's "Wizards of Waverly Pod" is another prime example of this lasting connection. Their weekly deep dives into episodes, sharing candid memories and laughs, offer fans a unique glimpse into the playful and supportive environment that defined the show's production. It's more than just a rewatch podcast; it's a celebration of friendship and shared history.
The cast members often speak fondly of their time on the show, recalling it as a period of immense growth, fun, and the creation of lasting memories. These stories, whether shared in interviews, on podcasts, or through social media, paint a picture of a tight-knit group that truly enjoyed working together, a sentiment that undoubtedly translated into the authentic chemistry viewers loved on screen.
A New Chapter: What to Expect from the Wizards Revival
The announcement of a "Wizards of Waverly Place" sequel in January 2024 sent ripples of excitement through the fan community. This isn't just a nostalgic cash-in; it's a thoughtfully crafted continuation of the beloved story, with original stars at the helm.
The sequel picks up years after the original series finale. David Henrie will return as an adult Justin Russo, now married with two sons. In a surprising twist, Justin has chosen to leave his wizard powers behind to lead a normal, mortal life, working at WizTech. However, his peaceful existence is disrupted when a powerful young wizard named Billie, played by Janice LeAnn Brown, seeks his guidance after a mysterious incident.
Selena Gomez is set to guest star in the pilot, reprising her role as Alex Russo. Her character will play a crucial role in introducing Billie to Justin, setting the stage for the new mentor-mentee dynamic. While Gomez won't be a leading role in the series, her presence provides a vital link to the original show and a passing of the torch to the new generation of wizards.
The new cast also includes Alkaio Thiele and Mimi Gianopulos, hinting at a fresh ensemble that will undoubtedly bring new dynamics and humor to the magical world of Waverly Place. The sequel is expected to premiere in 2024, promising to blend the familiar charm of the original with new storylines and characters. This revival speaks volumes about the show's enduring appeal and the cast's commitment to delivering a worthy continuation.
Beyond the Spells: Navigating Life's Real Magic
The journeys of the "Wizards of Waverly Place" cast members illustrate that life, much like magic, is full of unexpected twists and turns. From Selena Gomez's public health battles with lupus and bipolar disorder, inspiring millions with her vulnerability and resilience, to Jennifer Stone's impactful decision to become a registered nurse, these individuals have used their platforms and experiences to make a difference beyond entertainment.
Their stories remind us that while they might have played wizards on screen, off-screen they've navigated very human challenges and triumphs. They've pursued diverse passions, whether it's Selena Gomez's dynamic music career or David Henrie's burgeoning directing career, showcasing that the magic of self-reinvention and growth is perhaps the most powerful of all. These real-life narratives add a profound layer to their on-screen personas, making their characters, and their personal journeys, even more relatable and inspiring to fans who grew up alongside them.
Why "Wizards" Continues to Charm Audiences Today
"Wizards of Waverly Place" wasn't just a hit show; it created a world that resonated deeply with its audience. Its success lay not only in its fantastical premise but also in its grounded portrayal of family, friendship, and the awkwardness of adolescence. The cast's undeniable chemistry and their genuine affection for one another fueled the show's heart, making every spell, every argument, and every laugh feel authentic.
The anticipation surrounding the upcoming sequel and the ongoing popularity of the "Wizards of Waverly Pod" are clear indicators of the show's lasting cultural impact. It's a testament to the creators, writers, and, most importantly, the talented cast who brought these characters to life. Their subsequent career paths and personal growth continue to engage fans, demonstrating that the magic of Waverly Place extended far beyond the show's original run. As we look forward to the next chapter, it's clear that the Russo family's story, and the real-life adventures of the actors who played them, will continue to enchant for years to come.