Beetlejuice 3: Will Missing Characters Finally Return?

With a third "Beetlejuice" movie potentially on the horizon, fans are buzzing about the possible return of some beloved characters who were notably absent from the sequel. The original film's Barbara (Geena Davis) and Adam Maitland (Alec Baldwin) were sorely missed in "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice," leaving many to wonder if they might reappear in a future installment. Their connection to Lydia Deetz (Winona Ryder) was a cornerstone of the first movie, making their absence even more conspicuous.

Now, a new "Beetlejuice" movie could provide the perfect opportunity to revisit these characters and explore their ongoing relationship with Lydia. It seems that their return might be more likely than we think.

Why Adam and Barbara Were Missing in "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice"

Director Tim Burton has explained that Adam and Barbara's absence in "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" was a deliberate choice. The sequel aimed to on three generations of the Deetz family, with the introduction of Jenna Ortega's character, Astrid. Burton wanted to explore the dynamics between Lydia, Astrid, and the impact of Richard's death on their family.

Burton emphasized the personal nature of the sequel, highlighting the themes of family, life, and death. He felt that this approach was only possible after experiencing these themes himself over time. The on the Deetz family narrative meant that including Adam and Barbara, even in cameo roles, would have detracted from the core story.

While there were nearly cameos by the Maitlands at the end of the movie, Burton's vision was to keep the story focused on the Deetz family. The original movie wrapped up Adam and Barbara's storyline, making their inclusion in the sequel feel unnecessary for the main narrative.

The Potential for a Comeback

Despite their absence in the sequel, subtle clues suggest that the Maitlands haven't been completely forgotten. Lydia mentions that Adam and Barbara found a way to move on while still existing as ghosts, allowing them to travel through different forms of existence. This opens the door for a potential reunion between Lydia and the Maitlands in "Beetlejuice 3."

Furthermore, the ending of "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" hints that Lydia's troubles with Beetlejuice are far from over. She continues to have nightmares about the bio-exorcist, suggesting that he may still pose a threat. Adam and Barbara, who played a parental role in Lydia's life, could offer valuable support in dealing with this ongoing issue. Their experience with Beetlejuice in the original film makes them uniquely qualified to help Lydia navigate his chaotic influence.

A Worthwhile Reunion

While nothing is confirmed, a reunion between Lydia and the Maitlands in "Beetlejuice 3" could be a meaningful addition to the story. Unlike a brief cameo, a substantial role for Adam and Barbara would allow for a deeper exploration of their relationship with Lydia and their impact on her life.

A well-developed storyline that incorporates the Maitlands could enrich the narrative and provide a satisfying resolution for fans who have missed these iconic characters. The chance to see Lydia, Adam, and Barbara working together again would be a welcome return to the heart of the original "Beetlejuice."