Stockard Channing, 82, made a rare public appearance at the European premiere of "Practical Magic 2" in London, marking her first red carpet event in two years. The actress, known for her roles in "Grease" and "The West Wing," walked the red carpet at the Odeon Luxe Leicester Square for the premiere of the sequel to the 1998 film "Practical Magic."
Channing reprises her role as Aunt Frances Owens in the sequel, joined by co-star Dianne Wiest, who returns as Aunt Bridget "Jet" Owens. The film also features new cast members Joey King and Maisie Williams as the daughters of Sandra Bullock's character, and Lee Pace as a scholar studying witchcraft. Bullock and Nicole Kidman star as the central witch sisters.
Channing appeared elegant in a navy suit paired with a white blouse and a statement necklace. She was seen embracing and holding hands with Wiest on the red carpet.
Earlier this month, Channing spoke with the Sunday Times Magazine about her life in London, where she relocated from Maine in 2019. She described her life in the UK as "reclusive" and stated she is content with her quieter existence. She explained that her move was influenced by the death of her partner, producer Dan Gillham, in 2014, and that the changing political landscape in the U.S. following the election of President Trump also played a role in her decision to shift her life to London.
Channing has had a prolific career on stage and screen. She first gained widespread recognition as Rizzo in the 1978 musical "Grease" and later portrayed First Lady Abbey Bartlet in the television series "The West Wing." She has been married and divorced four times throughout her career. Her relationship with Gillham began in 1990 and lasted until his death.
In addition to her acting work, Channing is also making her theatrical directorial debut with a production of Samuel Beckett's "Krapp's Last Tape" at the Edinburgh Festival, aiming to raise funds for The Wembley to Soweto Foundation.