‘Hocus Pocus’ Star Omri Katz On Leaving Hollywood After Beating Leonardo DiCaprio Out For Role

Omri Katz got famous for playing Max Dennison in 1991’s Hocus Pocus as a teenager, having started his acting career as a three-year-old. He starred in a few more films before withdrawing from Hollywood to pursue a different career.

He recently appeared on Bronx Buds YouTube Channel alongside his co-star from Eerie Indiana, Justin Shenkarow, sharing his experience with fame, beating Leonardo DiCaprio to play Max, and why he left the film industry. He also shared the inspiration behind his new endeavor, which was inspired by his teenage years in the Halloween classic.

Why did Omri Katz leave Hollywood?

Omri joked that he still considers beating DiCaprio to a role bragging rights, admitting that the A-list actor probably declined instead. Despite achieving a feat with Hocus Pocus, the never-ending schedule that came with an acting career seemed overwhelming for young Omri, so he opted out shortly after.

He explored other options, such as touring with the Grateful Dead band for years and snowboarding right after. The 48-year-old seemed to live a fun, untethered life as he moved to Wyoming, where he would surf in the summer until he went broke.

Where is Omri Katz now?

Omri attempted a Hollywood comeback after moving to Los Angeles; however, he lost his confidence over the years. He got by with menial jobs like waiting tables and hairdressing for about eight years before becoming the thriving business owner he is today. Although there was a Hocus Pocus sequel in 2022, with co-stars reprising their roles, Omri declined to play Max again.

He now runs a cannabis-based business called the Mary Danksters brand, which promises positivity, herb, and unity through themed merchandise like T-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, hats and similar apparel. A few years ago, he admitted to being in the cannabis community for nearly two decades, adding that he was high while filming some Hocus Pocus scenes.