Stockard Channing Reflects on Reclusive Life and Return to Red Carpet

Stockard Channing, the actress known for her role in “Practical Magic,” made her return to the red carpet after a two-year hiatus. At 82, Channing attended the European premiere of “Practical Magic 2” on August 26 at the Odeon Luxe Leicester Square in London. She embraced the spotlight while donning a chic blue suit and chain-link jewelry.

Earlier in the year, Channing expressed contentment with her reclusive lifestyle in the United Kingdom. She relocated after the 2014 death of her partner, Daniel Gillham. In an essay for The Sunday Times, Channing wrote, “I’ve lived alone since I lost Daniel and I’m happy being a recluse.” She cited his death as having a lingering impact on her life.

The sequel to “Practical Magic” reunites stars Nicole Kidman, Sandra Bullock, and Dianne Wiest, nearly three decades after the original film’s release. Channing plays Aunt Franny, reprising her role for the much-anticipated film set to debut in September.

Channing’s move to London occurred “just before COVID,” aligning with her shift from life in Maine, and coincidentally with political changes in the U.S. Her morning routine now begins at 7 a.m., followed by exercise around 10 a.m., though she admitted, “My favorite exercise days are when I play hooky.” Her culinary efforts are relaxed, sharing, “If my ramen doesn’t work out I give it to the dog.”

Despite owning a collection of designer clothing from the Eighties and Nineties, Channing maintains a casual approach to fashion. She remarked on finding beauty in authenticity, stating, “I’m just me, take it or leave it.”

Tracy Wright, an entertainment reporter for Fox News Digital, contributed information to this report.