Maria Canals-Barrera returns to the Wizarding World in Disney’s Wizards Beyond Waverly Place.
Maria Canals-Barrera is stepping back into her beloved role as Theresa Russo in Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, the highly anticipated sequel series to Disney Channel’s Wizards of Waverly Place. Returning as the now “hip abuelita,” Canals-Barrera brings warmth and nostalgia to a new generation of viewers while reuniting with old castmates in a fresh, magical adventure.
“It’s so fun to play her in this new season of life,” Canals-Barrera said. “I get to play familiar things, but I’m also challenged with being Theresa in a new season where she’s a loving abuelita.”
The new series, led by original star and executive producer David Henrie, follows Justin Russo (Henrie) as he navigates life as a father and mentor to young wizards. The upcoming episode, “When You Wish Upon a Squonk,” features Theresa and Jerry Russo (David DeLuise) as guest stars, alongside a cast that includes Janice LeAnn Brown (Billie), Alkaio Thiele (Roman Russo), Max Matenko (Milo Russo), Taylor Cora (Winter), and Mimi Gianopulos (Giada Russo).
Canals-Barrera described stepping onto the new set as an emotional experience. “It felt very familiar, like I didn’t skip a beat,” she said. “The lair looks exactly like it did 10 years ago. It really does feel like no time has gone by.”
For years, Wizards of Waverly Place has remained a favorite among fans.
It continues to have a dedicated following that continues to grow. “I get asked every day if the show is coming back,” Canals-Barrera shared. “When I heard about this new series, I was thrilled. The fans have been waiting for this, and I can honestly tell people it’s great.”
She also praised the new cast, crediting Henrie and executive producer Selena Gomez for assembling a talented ensemble. “It’s not easy to find really talented young actors,” she noted. “They did a great job. The new kids are terrific, just as talented as our original cast.”
Reflecting on her journey with the franchise, Canals-Barrera expressed admiration for Henrie and Gomez’s evolution into industry leaders. “To see them as grown-ups and responsible executive producers is very cool to watch,” she said. “Time flies. I feel like it was just yesterday they were teenagers.”
As for why Wizards remains so beloved.
Canals-Barrera attributes its longevity to a combination of strong writing, humor, and heartfelt family themes. “It was all tied to a strong family bond—‘I love you no matter what, I’ve got your back.’ That was the Russo family motto,” she said. “Even though it’s just a TV show, when you’re a kid, it speaks to you.”
One of her favorite memories from the original series is a scene in which Theresa consoles Alex (Selena Gomez) after a heartbreak. “People love that moment because it gives them hope,” she recalled. “Even when we make mistakes, we are there for each other. That’s the secret sauce.”
With Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, Canals-Barrera is excited to continue that legacy. “I’m happy to be part of a show that gets it,” she said. “It’s authentic, it brings generations together, and I can’t wait for everyone to see what’s next.”
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Sean Tajipour
Sean Tajipour is the Founder and Editor of Nerdtropolis and the host of the Moviegoers Society and Reel Insights Podcast. He is also a member of the Critics Choice Association. You can follow on Twitter and Instagram @Seantaj.
