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List of Wizards of Waverly Place characters
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The Disney Channel original series Wizards of Waverly Place was created by Todd J. Greenwald. The series first aired on October 12, 2007, and ended on January 6, 2012.
The series centers on the fictional characters of the Russo family, which includes Alex (Selena Gomez), her older brother Justin (David Henrie), and their younger brother Max (Jake T. Austin). The three Russo siblings are wizards in training and live with their Italian-American father, Jerry (David DeLuise), a former wizard, and their Mexican-American mother, Theresa (Maria Canals-Barrera), who is a mortal.
The siblings have to keep their magical powers secret while living in the mortal world. When they complete their wizard training, the three siblings have to compete in the wizard competition to decide who will become the next family wizard and keep their powers.[1]
A sequel series, Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, began airing October 29, 2024. The series follows middle school principal Justin living with his wife Giada (Mimi Gianopulos), and their sons Roman (Alkaio Thiele) and Milo (Max Matenko), while he teaches magic to the young wizard Billie (Janice LeAnn Brown), who also attends Greenwald Middle School with Roman and their friend Winter (Taylor Cora).[2]
Overview
[edit]| Character | Portrayed by | Wizards of Waverly Place | Alex vs. Alex | Wizards Beyond | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Season 1 | Season 2 | The Movie | Season 3 | Season 4 | Season 1 | Season 2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Alex Russo | Selena Gomez | Main | Guest | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Justin Russo | David Henrie | Main | Mentioned | Main | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Max Russo | Jake T. Austin | Main | Mentioned | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Harper Finkle | Jennifer Stone | Main | Flashback | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Theresa Russo | Maria Canals Barrera | Main | Guest | Mentioned | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Jerry Russo | David DeLuise | Main | Guest | Mentioned | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Archie | Steve Valentine | Main | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Javier | Xavier Torres | Main | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Giselle | Jennifer Alden | Main | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Mason Greyback | Gregg Sulkin | Mentioned | Recurring | Main | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dominic | Beau Mirchoff | Main | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Billie Russo | Janice LeAnn Brown | Main | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Roman Russo | Alkaio Thiele | Main | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Milo Russo | Max Matenko | Main | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Winter | Taylor Cora | Main | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Giada Russo | Mimi Gianopulos | Main | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hershel Laritate | Bill Chott | Guest | Recurring | Recurring | Guest | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Mantooth | Sean Whalen | Guest | Guest | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Main
[edit]Alex Russo
[edit]Alexandra Margarita Russo (Selena Gomez) is the only female of the three Russo siblings and the middle child. She is sly, rebellious, outgoing, and usually underachieves when it comes to school. She often gets into trouble because of her constant schemes (usually involving magic).[3] Alex and Justin Russo are the only characters to appear in every episode of the series and the shows focus tends to be on her and her journey being/becoming a wizard
Justin Russo
[edit]Justin Vincenzo Pepé Russo (David Henrie) is Alex's and Max's older brother and the oldest of the three Russo siblings. He is very smart and is often considered a "nerd" because he is in numerous clubs and has learned over 5000 spells. He continues his wizard studies in a Monster Hunting course. For his knowledge of wizardry, he takes after his father, Jerry, who originally won the Wizard Family Competition against Kelbo and Megan.
Max Russo
[edit]Maximilian Alonzo Ernesto Russo (Jake T. Austin) is the youngest of the three Russo siblings. Although Max is an underachiever in the beginning, he advances more during the series. During season four, Alex and Justin accidentally turn Max into a little girl who is then given the name "Maxine" (Bailee Madison). Maxine remains as such for five episodes starting from "Three Maxes and a Little Lady" and ending with "Back to Max" when the spell is reversed.
Harper Finkle
[edit]Harper Finkle (Jennifer Stone) is Alex's best friend. She used to have a crush on her brother, Justin Russo, but eventually falls in love with Justin's best friend, Zeke Beakerman. Harper is a typical teenager: self-expressive but a little insecure at times. Unlike Alex, she is a hardworking student and a fairly positive person. During season 2, Harper finds out about the Russo family's wizard powers.
Theresa Russo
[edit]Theresa Russo (Maria Canals-Barrera) is the mother of Justin, Alex and Max Russo and co-owner of the Waverly Sub Station, with her husband Jerry. Theresa is the slightly more serious one of the couple and doesn't like magic being used in the house. Theresa is Mexican American (as a Latina, Canals Barrera has Spanish ancestry through her Cuban parents).[4]
Jerry Russo
[edit]Jerry Russo (David DeLuise) is the father of Justin, Alex and Max Russo and co-owner of the Waverly Sub Station with his wife Theresa. He is also a former wizard who chose to give up his powers to marry his wife Theresa, a mortal, due to a rule forbidding wizards to marry mortals. Jerry is Italian American (DeLuise also has Italian ancestry).[5]
Billie
[edit]Billie (Janice LeAnn Brown) is a wizard-in-training who comes to live with Justin and his family in the sequel series. She is a young and very powerful wizard, at the end of Season 2 it is revealed that Billie is Alex Russo's daughter, making Billie, Justin's niece.
Roman Russo
[edit]Roman Russo (Alkaio Thiele) is the oldest son of Justin and Giada Russo and older brother of Milo. He is an intelligent and awkward twelve-year-old boy.
Milo Russo
[edit]Milo Russo (Max Matenko) is the youngest son of Justin and Giada Russo as well as Roman's younger brother. He is a creative and goofy fifth grader. His nemesis is his young neighbor, Bella Bianchi.
Giada Russo
[edit]Giada Russo (Mimi Gianopulos) is Roman and Milo Russo's mother and Justin's mortal wife. She is a television journalist for WOWP, which is also the acronym for the original series.
Winter
[edit]Winter (Taylor Cora) is Billie and Roman's best friend. She loves unicorns and is a very cheerful girl.
Recurring
[edit]The following is a list of recurring characters in the Disney Channel sitcom Wizards of Waverly Place.
- Zeke Beakerman[6] (Dan Benson) is Justin's best friend. Zeke is in the same grade as Justin. He attends Tribeca Prep and is in advanced chemistry along with Justin. He later starts dating Harper. He had the name of Zack Rosenblatt in his first appearance, but was named Zeke Beakerman in subsequent episodes.
- Mr. Herschel Laritate (Bill Chott) is the principal of Tribeca Prep High School.
- Mason Greyback (Gregg Sulkin; seasons 3–4) is first mentioned in Season 2 episode "Future Harper" when Future Harper tells Alex that she seems irritable and asks if she broke up with Mason yet, implying that she will date a boy named Mason in the future. Mason is first fully introduced as an English student in Alex's art class who has a crush on Alex. They later begin to date. Mason is revealed to be a purebred werewolf who previously dated Juliet.
- Juliet van Heusen (Bridgit Mendler; seasons 2–4) is a teenage vampire who is Justin Russo's main love interest. When she was born, her parents let her have a soul so she could socialize in the human world. This makes her more compassionate than most vampires, who are usually heartless and cunning. She is characterized as a beautiful girl with blonde hair and rather pale skin.
- Dean Moriarty (Daniel Samonas; seasons 2 and 4) is Alex's boyfriend in the second season. He makes temporary tattoos in the boys bathroom and is interested in cars.
- Professor Crumbs (Ian Abercrombie) is the headmaster of WizTech, whose character acts as a reference to Albus Dumbledore.
- Hugh Normous (Josh Sussman; seasons 1–2 and 4) is Alex's WizTech friend; he first appeared in "Wizard School."
- Kelbo Russo (Jeff Garlin; seasons 1–3) is the uncle of Alex, Justin and Max, brother of Jerry and Megan and brother-in-law of Theresa. Unlike Jerry, he is very fun and carefree. Kelbo is a full wizard (Jerry had originally won the competition, but gave up his powers to marry a mortal) who often uses his powers childishly, and often seems just as irresponsible with them as Alex is with her own. As a recurring gag, during the post credits scenes in every episode he appears in, he makes a prank call to someone.
- Monotone Woman (Amanda Tepe; seasons 1–2) has played numerous characters during the show's first season, as well as one guest appearance in season two. She appears as a random character who speaks with a monotone voice. Jobs she has held include department store manager, waitress, frozen yogurt store manager, hotel maitre'd, dog show security guard, the information desk lady at Volcano Land (only job in the magic world), art museum security guard, and hot dog vendor. Tepe's only appearance on the show during the second season is in the episode "Wizards vs. Vampires: Dream Date" as the hot dog vendor person. Her name in "New Employee" is Amanda, according to her name tag, but in "Art Museum Piece", her name is Elaine according to Blue Boy. She does not appear in the third and fourth season.
Other recurring
[edit]- Stevie Nichols (Hayley Kiyoko; season 3) is the new troublemaker at school. She was first seen in episode Detention Election where she competes with Alex to see who is the worst behaved girl in school. Afterward, Alex and Stevie form a close friendship. In March 2023, Peter Murrieta confirmed that Stevie was originally meant to be Alex's girlfriend, but Disney did not approve that storyline.[7]
- Rosie (Leven Rambin; season 4) is Justin's angel girlfriend throughout the Wizards vs. Angels story arc.
- Gorog (John Rubinstein; season 4) is an Angel of Darkness. He is the leader of the Dark Angels, who debuts in the episode "Wizards vs. Angels." He is the main antagonist of the Wizards vs. Angels and the Wizards of Apartment 13B story arcs, and a posthumous antagonist in the television special The Wizards Return: Alex vs. Alex. His character and motivations are slightly based on the Satan.
- Alucard and Cindy van Heusen (JD Cullum and Anne Ramsay; season 2) are Juliet's full vampire parents and the owners of the competing sandwich shop on Waverly Place, the Late Nite Bite, appearing in the four-part "Wizards vs. Vampires on Waverly Place" story arc at the end of season two. The name Alucard is the reverse spelling of Dracula.
- Riley (Brian Kubach; season 1) is Alex's crush in "I Almost Drowned in a Chocolate Fountain" and "The Supernatural", and her boyfriend in "Alex's Spring Fling".
- Talia Robinson (McKaley Miller; season 4) is Max's girlfriend. Her first appearance is in "Back to Max". She has an obvious crush on Max.
- Gertrude "Gigi" Hollingsworth (Skyler Samuels; seasons 1–2) is Alex's rival. She has tried to embarrass Alex ever since they were in kindergarten and will often go entirely out of her way to do so.
- The Wannabes (Kelsey Sanders and Heather Trzyna; seasons 1–2) are called "the wannabes" because they want to be as pretty as Gigi.
- Chancellor Rudy Tootietootie (Andy Kindler; seasons 3–4) is the head of the monster hunting council.
- Conscience (Moises Arias; season 3) is Max's inner thoughts of right and wrong, that Max accidentally turns into a real person.
- Frankie/Joey (Paulie Litt; seasons 1 and 3) is Justin's enemy in the first season. He returned in season 3 with his name changed to Joey.
Minor
[edit]- Miranda Hampson (Lucy Hale) is Justin's goth girlfriend in two episodes of season one.
- Mr. Stuffleby (Fred Willard) is a character that first appears in the episode "Make it Happen".
- T.J. Taylor (Daryl Sabara) is another teenage wizard that attends Tribeca Prep with Alex, Justin, and Max.
- Officer Lamp (Michael A. Shepperd) is a wizard police officer who partners with Officer Goblin.
- Officer Goblin (Brian Scolaro) is a goblin/wizard police officer.
- The Mummy (John Eric Bentley) is a mummy who kidnapped and bewitched Juliet to be his servant.
- Conscience's Conscience (Adam Irigoyen) is Conscience's conscience when Conscience and Max get separated in Season 3 episode "Night at the Lazerama" and Conscience begins to develop his own conscience.
- Joey (Zack Shada) is a part of Dean's posse. He is the only one who talks in the posse besides Dean.
- Ronald Longcape Jr. (Chad Duell) is an evil kid at WizTech.
- Ronald Longcape Sr. (Maurice Godin) is Ronald Longcape Jr.'s father.
- Dr. Mary-Beth Evilini (Octavia Spencer) is an evil former teacher at WizTech.
- Frankengirl/Frankie Stein (Perry Mattfeld) is a female monster Justin created to guard his room from Alex in the season 3 episode "Franken Girl".
- Megan Russo (Carrie Genzel) is the embittered aunt of Alex, Justin and Max, and sister of Jerry and Kelbo and sister-in-law of Theresa.
- Susan (Tiffany Thornton) is one of Justin's academic friends.
- MacGruder (Michael Monken) is a popular kid at Tribeca Prep who gets everyone to do what he does.
- Warren Nichols (Richard Chiu) is Stevie's brother whom she left in the middle of the power-transfer ceremony after he won their family's wizard competition.
- Tutor Hatchback (Paulina Olszynski) is Max's magical tutor.[citation needed]
Film
[edit]Characters only appear in Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie.
- Archie (Steve Valentine) is a skilled, but unlucky and sardonic illusionist and con artist, and serves as the comical foil and anti-hero of the movie.
- Giselle (Jennifer Alden) is a female wizard. She was turned into a parrot and is the driving force for the search of The Stone of Dreams through the manipulation of Archie and the Russos.
- Javier (Xavier Enrique Torres) is a host at the hotel the Russos were staying at in the Caribbean.
TV special
[edit]Characters only appear in The Wizards Return: Alex vs. Alex.
- Dominic (Beau Mirchoff) is an evil, manipulative, self-absorbed wizard. Dominic was one of Justin's assistants at WizTech and delivers a message for the Russo family. He is later revealed to be the nephew of Gorog.
- Carmela (Natalia Nogulich) is an Italian cousin of Jerry Russo, and was a wizard in training with him.
- Francesca (Antonella Lentini) is an Italian cousin of the Russo family. When Max first sees her, he tries to pursue her, but when he tries to kiss her, she smacks him.
Guests
[edit]- Heidi Swedberg as Miss Majorheely ("Art Teacher") 2.15 (2009)
- Austin Butler as George ("Positive Alex") 3.10 (2010)
- Cindy Crawford as Bebe Rockford ("Fashion Week") 2.13 (2009)
- Rachel Dratch as Future Harper/"H.J. Darling" ("Future Harper") 2.16 (2009)
- Julia Duffy as Ms. Angela ("Credit Check") 1.18 (2008)
- Willie Garson as Mr. Frenchy ("Fashion Week") 2.13 (2009)
- Dwayne Johnson as himself ("Art Teacher") 2.15 (2009)
- Lee Meriwether as "Battle Diva" ("Harper Knows") 2.08 (2008)
- Belita Moreno as Magdalena Larkin ("Quinceanera") 1.20 (2008)
- Sara Paxton as Millie ("Credit Check") 1.18 (2008)
- Rob Reiner as himself ("Future Harper") – Reiner is seen in the episode's tag scene
- Adam Irigoyen as Conscience's Conscience ("Night at the Lazerama") 3.05 (2009)
- Phill Lewis as Marion Moseby ("Cast Away (to Another Show)"), 2.25 (2009) part of the "Wizards on Deck with Hannah Montana" crossover)
- Debby Ryan as Bailey Pickett ("Cast Away (to Another Show)", 2.25 (2009) part of the "Wizards on Deck with Hannah Montana" crossover)
- Brenda Song as London Tipton ("Cast Away (to Another Show)", part of the "Wizards on Deck with Hannah Montana" crossover)
- Cole Sprouse as Cody Martin ("Cast Away (to Another Show)", part of the "Wizards on Deck with Hannah Montana" crossover)
- Dylan Sprouse as Zack Martin ("Cast Away (to Another Show)", part of the "Wizards on Deck with Hannah Montana" crossover)
- Chelsea Staub as Kari Landsdorf ("The Supernatural") 1.15 (2008)[8]
- Malese Jow as Ruby Donahue ("Movies") 1.09 (2007)
- Tiffany Thornton as Susan ("Movies") 1.09 (2007)
- Misty May-Treanor as herself ("Art Teacher") 2.15 (2008)
- Eric Allan Kramer as Coach Gunderson ("Alex in the Middle") 1.15 (2007)
- Jo Anne Worley as Maggie ("Alex Does Good") 2.17 (2009)
- Bella Thorne as Nancy Lukey ("Max's Secret Girlfriend") 3.19 (2010)
- Laura Ashley Samuels as Sara ("Moving On") 3.26 (2010)
- Shakira as herself ("Dude, Looks Like Shakira") 3.12 (2010)
- Kate Flannery as Elaine Finkle ("Wizards vs. Finkles") 3.23 (2010)
- Scot Robinson as Marty Finkle ("Wizards vs. Finkles") 3.23 (2010)
- Wilmer Valderrama as Uncle Ernesto (""Uncle Ernesto") 3.25 (2010)
- John O'Hurley as Captain Jim Sherwood ("Captain Jim Bob Sherwood") 3.22 (2010)
- Bailee Madison as Maxine Russo ("Three Maxes and a Little Lady – Back to Max") 4.5 – 4.10 (2011)
- Shane Harper as Fidel ("Three Maxes and a Little Lady") 4.5 (2011)
- China Anne McClain as Tina ("Wizards vs. Angels") 4.09 (2011)
- Jackie Evancho as Choir Girl/Herself ("Back to Max") 4.10 (2011)
- Valente Rodriguez as Bob "Muy Macho" ("Magic Unmasked") 4.12 (2011)
- Tim Conway as Cragmont ("Justin's Back In") 4.18 (2011)
- Joely Fisher as Meg Robinson ("Alex the Puppetmaster") 4.19 (2011)
- James Urbaniak as Rob Robinson ("Alex the Puppetmaster") 4.19 (2011)
References
[edit]- ^ Wizards of Waverly Place, retrieved October 26, 2022
- ^ Hipes, Patrick; Tapp, Tom (January 18, 2024). "Yes, Selena Gomez Is Back For The 'Wizards of Waverly Place' Sequel: Here's Everything We Know About Its Cast, Plot, Release Date & More". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved February 4, 2024.
- ^ "21 Reasons Alex Russo From 'Wizards Of Waverly Place' Is Your Ideal BFF". MTV. Archived from the original on October 26, 2022. Retrieved October 26, 2022.
- ^ Wizards of Waverly Place episode: "You Can't Always Get What You Carpet"
- ^ Wizards of Waverly Place episode: "Quinceañera"
- ^ "Smarty Pants", season 2, episode 1 has Zeke in the credits; in "Movies", season 1, episode 9 he is called "Zack".
- ^ Sharf, Zack (March 28, 2023). "Selena Gomez's 'Waverly Place' Character Would've Been Bisexual, Head Writer Says 'We Weren't Able' to Make It Explicit: 'We Got as Close as We Could'". Variety. Retrieved March 30, 2023.
- ^ "The Supernatural", season 1, episode 15, has "Kari Landsdorf" in the credits.
List of Wizards of Waverly Place characters
View on GrokipediaOverview
Core Premise and Family Dynamics
centers on the Russo family, who outwardly operate the Waverly Sub Station sandwich shop in Greenwich Village, Manhattan, while secretly training their three children in wizardry. The series, which aired on Disney Channel from October 17, 2007, to January 6, 2012, across four seasons and 106 episodes, follows teenage siblings Justin, Alex, and Max Russo as they master magic amidst everyday adolescent challenges.[1] Their father, Jerry Russo, a former wizard who relinquished his powers to marry mortal Theresa Russo, supervises their education in a hidden lair beneath the family business, enforcing rules from the Wizard Council that demand secrecy from non-magical society.[3] A foundational rule of the wizard world mandates that only one sibling per family may retain full magical abilities upon reaching adulthood, compelling the Russos to prepare for a competitive wizard competition to determine the "family wizard." This premise drives ongoing sibling rivalry and ethical dilemmas, as the losers must undergo "The Full Monty," a process stripping their powers, while the winner inherits responsibility for the family's magical lineage.[4] Jerry's decision to forfeit his own wizard status underscores the tension between magic and mortal life, influencing his strict yet protective parenting style.[1] Family dynamics blend typical parental guidance with magical enforcement: Theresa, lacking powers, focuses on emotional support and maintaining normalcy, often mediating conflicts arising from the children's spell-induced mishaps. The siblings' personalities amplify interactions—Justin's academic diligence contrasts Alex's rebellious spell experimentation and Max's casual opportunism—fostering both cooperation against external threats and competition over their future. These elements highlight themes of heritage, choice, and balance between supernatural heritage and human relationships, all concealed to preserve the wizard world's integrity.[3]Primary Russo Family Characters
Alex Russo
Alexandra Margarita "Alex" Russo is the protagonist of the Disney Channel television series Wizards of Waverly Place, which aired from October 12, 2007, to January 6, 2012.[1] Portrayed by Selena Gomez, Alex is depicted as a teenage wizard living in a loft above her family's sandwich shop in New York City's Greenwich Village.[5] She navigates the challenges of adolescence while concealing her magical abilities from the non-magical world, often resorting to spells for personal convenience that lead to unintended consequences.[3] As the middle child of the Russo family, Alex competes against her older brother Justin and younger brother Max to become the sole family wizard, per the wizard world's rule that only one sibling retains full powers into adulthood while the others lose theirs.[6] Her father, Jerry Russo, a former wizard who relinquished his powers to marry her mortal mother Theresa, oversees their magical training in a secret lair beneath the family business.[6] Alex's impulsive and rebellious approach to magic frequently contrasts with Justin's studiousness and Max's laid-back attitude, driving much of the series' conflict and humor.[5] In the series finale "Who Will Be the Family Wizard?", aired January 6, 2012, Alex wins the competition through a combination of skill and family collaboration, securing her position as the family wizard while allowing Justin to retain limited powers as a non-practicing wizard.[3] Alex reprises her role in the 2024 Disney Channel spin-off Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, appearing as a guest star who has joined the Wizard Tribunal to enforce magical laws, reflecting her matured yet still witty persona.[7]Justin Russo
Justin Russo is a central character in the Disney Channel television series Wizards of Waverly Place, which aired from October 12, 2007, to January 6, 2012.[1] Portrayed by David Henrie, he serves as the eldest child of the Russo family, a lineage of wizards living in New York City who operate a sandwich shop called Russo's Way.[1] As a full wizard-in-training alongside his siblings Alex and Max, Justin participates in the family's competition to determine who retains their magical powers upon reaching adulthood, with the others losing theirs.[1] Known for his exceptional intelligence and academic prowess, Justin excels in both mundane subjects like science and mathematics as well as wizard studies, often inventing spells or devices that blend magic with technology.[1] Throughout the series' 106 episodes, Justin embodies responsibility and diligence, frequently attempting to enforce rules and mitigate the chaos caused by Alex's impulsive magic use.[1] His relationship with Alex is marked by sibling rivalry and mutual exasperation, yet he consistently protects and supports her, reflecting deep familial loyalty.[1] Justin's traits include a strong moral compass, generosity, and a tendency toward perfectionism, which sometimes leads to arrogance or overconfidence in his knowledge.[1] He develops romantic interests, notably with Juliet van Heusen, a vampire, highlighting his willingness to navigate supernatural complexities for love.[1] In the series finale, Alex emerges victorious in the wizard competition, resulting in Justin forfeiting his powers to live as a mortal; he subsequently becomes the non-magical headmaster of Wiz Tech, a wizardry school.[1] Henrie reprises the role in the sequel series Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, premiering October 1, 2024, where an adult Justin, married to Giada with children Roman and Milo, initially leads a mortal life but resumes involvement in wizard training when Alex entrusts him with mentoring a young wizard named Billie.[8][9] This continuation explores Justin's adaptation to fatherhood and renewed magical responsibilities.[9]Max Russo
Maximilian "Max" Alonzo Ernesto Russo is the youngest of the three Russo siblings and a central character in the Disney Channel series Wizards of Waverly Place, which aired 106 episodes from October 12, 2007, to January 6, 2012.[10] Portrayed by Jake T. Austin, Max is the son of former wizard Jerry Russo and mortal Theresa Russo, inheriting a mix of Italian-American and Mexican heritage that his mother encourages him to embrace.[11] As a young wizard-in-training living above the family's Waverly Sub Station in New York City, Max must balance magical lessons with everyday life while keeping wizardry secret from non-magical humans.[11] Max is depicted as mischievous, cheeky, and witty, often lacking forethought in his actions, such as ignoring safety warnings during a potion experiment in the episode "Potion Commotion."[11] His laid-back personality and obsession with food provide comic relief throughout the series, contrasting with the more ambitious Justin and rebellious Alex; he frequently exploits his siblings' predicaments for personal gain, as seen in "The Crazy 10-Minute Sale."[11] Max demonstrates magical aptitude with spells like "Comakus Pancakus" for creating pancakes and "Levitatus Liquidatus" for levitating liquids, though his spellcasting is typically impulsive rather than strategic.[11] In the wizard family competition central to the series' premise, only one sibling can retain full powers, with the others becoming mortal; in the finale "Who Will Be the Family Wizard?," Max loses to Alex (who becomes the Family Wizard) and Justin (appointed Wiz Tech headmaster), resulting in his powers being removed and him inheriting the Waverly Sub Station as compensation.[11] This outcome aligns with his characterization as the least focused on wizardly responsibility, shifting his role toward mortal life managing the family business.[12] Key episodes highlighting Max include "Alex's Brother, Maximan," where he gains temporary superhero abilities, and "Make It Happen," showcasing his opportunistic side.[13]
Jerry Russo
Jerry Russo is portrayed by David DeLuise in the Disney Channel television series Wizards of Waverly Place, which aired from 2007 to 2012.[14] As the patriarch of the Russo family, he is the husband of Theresa Russo and father to three children—Justin, Alex, and Max—who possess wizard powers inherited through his lineage.[3] The family resides above their business, the Waverly Sub Station, a sandwich shop in Manhattan's Greenwich Village, which Jerry co-manages with Theresa.[6] A former wizard himself, Jerry won his family's wizard competition during adolescence, securing the right to retain powers, but relinquished them to marry the non-magical Theresa, adhering to wizard council rules prohibiting full wizards from wedding mortals.[15] Despite lacking active magic, he enforces strict guidelines on his children's spellcasting, conducts their magical training in the family lair beneath the sub station, and emphasizes responsible use of powers to prevent exposure to non-wizards.[16] His character often balances parental authority with comedic exasperation over the kids' mishaps, reflecting a protective yet occasionally lenient demeanor shaped by his own past experiences with magic.[17] Jerry appears in the 2009 television film Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie, where the family vacations in the Caribbean and confronts magical threats.[18] DeLuise reprises the role as a special guest in the 2025 sequel series Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, assisting adult Justin amid new family wizard challenges.[19]Theresa Russo
Theresa Russo is portrayed by Maria Canals-Barrera as the non-magical mother in the Russo family on the Disney Channel series Wizards of Waverly Place, which aired from 2007 to 2012.[20] She is married to Jerry Russo, a former wizard who forfeited his powers to be with her as a mortal, and is the parent of three children—Justin, Alex, and Max—who possess wizard abilities and undergo training to compete for retaining family magic.[21] The family operates the Waverly Sub Station, a sandwich shop in Manhattan's Greenwich Village where they reside upstairs, with Theresa contributing to its management alongside her husband.[22] Depicted as a Latina-American character, Theresa represents Disney's first prominent Latin American maternal lead, emphasizing family loyalty and unconditional support amid magical disruptions.[23] Her traits include being caring yet fussy, often embarrassed by family antics, and firmly opposed to unchecked magic causing household chaos, reflecting a preference for normalcy and discipline.[24] Canals-Barrera has highlighted Theresa's embodiment of maternal struggles, such as navigating children's independence while upholding family unity, in interviews about the role.[21] Theresa reprises her role in the 2025 sequel series Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, appearing as a guest in select episodes to continue portraying the steadfast family anchor.[21][25]Extended Family Characters
Roman Russo
Roman Russo is the eldest son of Justin Russo and his wife Giada, and the older brother of Milo Russo, making him the nephew of Alex and Max Russo.[6] As a young wizard in the extended Russo family lineage, he participates in the wizard competition central to the plot of Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, navigating magical challenges alongside relatives while balancing everyday life.[9] His full name is Roman Laritate Russo, a detail revealed in the episode "Howdy with a Trance of Gumballs."[26] Portrayed by actor Alkaio Thiele, Roman is depicted as inheriting traits from his father Justin, including a studious demeanor and interest in journaling daily activities.[27] Thiele, known for voice work in Spidey and His Amazing Friends and live-action roles in The Wingfeather Saga, appears as Roman across multiple episodes of the 2024–2025 series, contributing to the character's role in family dynamics and supernatural plotlines.[9] Roman's relationships, such as his involvement with supernatural entities, echo themes from the original series involving Justin's past experiences.[28] Introduced as a main character in Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, Roman features prominently in episodes exploring Russo family competitions and alliances, appearing in installments like the premiere "Everything is Not What It Seems" and subsequent ones such as "Mortal Vibes Only" and "Saved by the Spell."[26] His character arc emphasizes wizard training and sibling rivalry within the Italian-American Russo heritage, which traces roots to ancient magical traditions.[6]Milo Russo
Milo Russo is a main character in the Disney Channel series Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, a 2024 continuation of the original Wizards of Waverly Place. Portrayed by actor Max Matenko, he serves as the youngest son of Justin Russo and his wife Giada Russo, making him the grandson of Jerry and Theresa Russo from the original series.[29][6] As the younger brother of Roman Russo, Milo is depicted as a child navigating family dynamics in a household where his father has opted for a mortal life, relinquishing wizard powers to protect the family from magical threats. This choice contrasts with the wizard heritage of his extended family, including aunts Alex and Max Russo, positioning Milo as part of a new generation potentially exposed to wizardry through external events in the series.[6] Milo exhibits traits reminiscent of his uncle Max Russo, such as a playful demeanor and affinity for food-related antics, as noted by series actor David Henrie in a June 2024 social media post highlighting visual similarities while emphasizing Milo's distinct personality.[30] His character appears across episodes starting from the series premiere on October 10, 2024, contributing to storylines involving family protection and magical inheritance challenges.[29]Giada Russo
Giada Russo is a fictional character and one of the central figures in the Disney Channel sequel series Wizards Beyond Waverly Place (2024–present), portrayed by actress Mimi Gianopulos. As a mortal human with no innate magical abilities, she serves as the wife of Justin Russo, who has opted for a non-wizard lifestyle following the events of the original Wizards of Waverly Place series. Giada is depicted as a supportive spouse and parent, navigating the challenges of her husband's hidden wizard heritage while maintaining a grounded family dynamic in their suburban home. She is the mother of two sons: the older child Roman Russo and the younger Milo Russo, both of whom exhibit emerging wizard traits inherited from Justin. Giada's relationship with Justin underscores themes of secrecy and revelation in the series, as she learns of his magical background amid threats to their family, prompting her to adapt to the supernatural elements without possessing powers herself. This awareness occurs early in the narrative, highlighted in episodes where external magical dangers force Justin to disclose his abilities to protect their household.[6][31] Introduced in the series premiere on October 29, 2024, Giada appears as a recurring main character across multiple episodes, contributing to storylines involving family protection and the integration of magic into everyday life. Her character draws from Gianopulos's Greek heritage, with Giada portrayed as resilient and family-oriented, often acting as the emotional anchor for the Russo household amid wizard-related crises. While not a wizard, her role emphasizes mortal perspectives on magic, providing contrast to the supernatural elements and highlighting Justin's personal sacrifices for normalcy.[32][31]Protagonist Allies and Friends
Harper Finkle
Harper Finkle is a central supporting character in the Disney Channel sitcom Wizards of Waverly Place, which ran for four seasons from October 17, 2007, to January 6, 2012.[33] Portrayed by Jennifer Stone, Harper functions as the loyal best friend to the lead character, Alex Russo, often providing comic relief through her eccentricities while serving as a grounding influence amid the supernatural elements of the plot.[34] Stone's performance earned her recognition as a key ensemble member, contributing to the series' appeal to young audiences with Harper's blend of intelligence and whimsy. Unlike the wizard Russo siblings, Harper is a non-magical human whose awareness of magic begins in season 2's "Harper Knows" episode, aired on February 15, 2009, after she accidentally discovers Alex's powers and is sworn to secrecy. Her character contrasts sharply with Alex's mischievous demeanor; Harper is depicted as academically diligent, punctual, and rule-abiding, frequently assisting in covering up magical mishaps or offering practical advice.[35] She exhibits a distinctive fashion sense, often donning outfits constructed from unconventional materials like food items or household objects, underscoring her creative and quirky personality. Harper's relationships evolve across the series, initially harboring a crush on Alex's brother Justin Russo before entering a romantic partnership with Zeke Beakerman starting in season 3.[36] This dynamic adds layers to group interactions at the Russo family's wizard lair beneath their sandwich shop, where Harper participates in various adventures, including family conflicts and supernatural threats. In episodes like "Wizards vs. Finkles" from season 3, aired July 30, 2010, her interactions highlight tensions between her structured upbringing and the chaotic Russo household.[37] Stone has discussed in interviews crafting an internal "dark past" for Harper, influenced by a circus upbringing hinted at in the show, which explains her tolerance for the bizarre.[38] Despite her non-magical status, Harper's unwavering support for Alex positions her as an essential ally in the competition among the Russo children to retain their powers.Billie
Billie is a central character in the Disney Channel sequel series Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, portrayed by American actress Janice LeAnn Brown (born September 2010). Brown began her acting career with appearances in various shows and films such as Euphoria (as young Rue), Montross: Blood Rules, and Endings, Beginnings (2019). She overcame doubts during her audition due to stuttering her lines to secure the role.[39] Introduced in the 2024 premiere, she is depicted as a young, exceptionally powerful wizard-in-training whose impulsive and uncontrolled use of magic has led to multiple expulsions from wizard institutions. Alex Russo delivers Billie to her brother Justin's household, enlisting him to provide the mentorship she requires to harness her abilities responsibly.[7][40] Throughout the series, Billie's arc focuses on her integration into the Russo family dynamic, where she interacts with Justin's children, Roman and Milo, while grappling with the consequences of her rebellious tendencies. Her character is often shown employing magic for personal or helpful intentions, though frequently with unintended fallout, such as fizzling spells or school detentions stemming from wand trades and pranks. In season 2 episodes like "Ooze!...I Did It Again" and "Cruel Detentions," Billie's magic malfunctions prompt quests for cures and confrontations with authority figures, highlighting her growth from self-centered mischief to more collaborative wizardry.[41][42][43] Described by Brown in interviews as a "relatable rebel" with a penchant for lip gloss and sarcasm, Billie embodies spunky, stubborn traits that echo Alex Russo's earlier portrayals, yet she is motivated by genuine desires to aid others rather than pure selfishness. She maintains a close friendship with fellow wizard Winter, collaborating on magical escapades and family-related challenges within the extended Russo lineage. By the season 2 finale, Billie's role expands to confront broader wizard world threats, solidifying her as the protagonist bridging the original series' legacy with new generational conflicts.[44][45]Winter
Winter is a main character in the Disney Channel series Wizards Beyond Waverly Place (2024–present), portrayed by American actress Taylor Cora.[9] As the non-magical best friend of teenage wizard Billie Russo and her brother Roman, Winter provides grounded human perspective amid the family's supernatural challenges, mirroring the supportive role of Harper Finkle in the original Wizards of Waverly Place.[46] She appears in all episodes of the first season, which premiered on October 29, 2024, and continues into season 2.[9] The character is characterized as bubbly, quirky, and eccentrically oversharing, often displaying unwavering loyalty and humor in high-stakes magical scenarios, such as assisting during a magic show where Billie's intervention leads to interpersonal tension. Her interactions highlight themes of friendship bridging mortal and wizard worlds, with Winter frequently entangled in the Russos' secrecy about magic.[47] Taylor Cora, an Afro-Latina actress with prior credits in projects like American Gangster: Trap Queens, brings a energetic, relatable dynamic to the role, emphasizing Winter's polite yet intrusive friendliness.[48]Recurring Characters
Magical Mentors and Associates
Professor Crumbs (Ian Abercrombie) served as the headmaster of WizTech, the elite wizard academy where Justin Russo studied advanced magic.[49] As a centuries-old wizard known for his wisdom and formidable powers, Crumbs enforced strict rules at the school while occasionally intervening in the Russo family's magical competitions and crises.[50] He appeared in 10 episodes across seasons 1 through 4 (2007–2012), often testing the siblings' abilities, such as during the "Saving Wiz Tech" arc where Alex and Justin thwarted a takeover attempt by a former student.[51] Crumbs retired as headmaster by the series finale, with Justin briefly succeeding him before forfeiting full wizard status.[52] Hugh Normous (Josh Sussman) was a recurring WizTech student and ally to Alex Russo, debuting in the season 1 episode "Wizard School" (2007).[51] Portrayed as a loyal but somewhat inept young wizard, Hugh aided the Russos in key plots, including rallying students to defend WizTech from Professor Farnsworth's hostile bid in the 2008 two-part episode "Saving Wiz Tech."[51] He featured in select episodes during seasons 1–2 and 4, totaling around five appearances, highlighting the academy's role in the wizard world's hierarchy.[53]Antagonists and Rivals
Stevie NicholsPortrayed by Hayley Kiyoko, Stevie Nichols is a young wizard and initial ally to Alex Russo introduced in the third season. She appears in four episodes, beginning with "Detention Election" aired on April 30, 2010. Stevie bonds with Alex over their shared rebellious tendencies but ultimately serves as an antagonist by plotting a wizard revolution to dismantle the family competition system, which requires siblings to vie for retaining their powers. Her plan escalates to endangering other wizards, prompting Alex to turn her to stone in "The Good, the Bad, and the Alex," aired May 7, 2010, to halt the uprising.[54][55][56] Gigi Hollingsworth
Portrayed by Skyler Samuels in a recurring role across the first two seasons, Gertrude "Gigi" Hollingsworth functions as Alex Russo's primary non-magical school rival. Their animosity dates to kindergarten, with Gigi embodying a stereotypical mean girl who repeatedly attempts to humiliate Alex through social sabotage and competition in academic and extracurricular activities. Notable appearances include episodes like "Graphic Novel," where her schemes target Alex's vulnerabilities. Gigi's antagonism peaks in season 1, positioning her as a foil to Alex's chaotic but good-hearted nature.[57]
