Ep 8: Showrunner & Writer Peter Murrieta Reveals the True Ending to Wizards of Waverly Place

[@WizardsPod]

How do you think Wizards should have ended???

[@oneearrabbit]

The ending wasn't that different from what Disney did. Alex did win she just didn't give up her powers to be with Mason, Justin was also able to keep his powers so in essence what Peter wanted came true, Alex won and Justin was given wizard powers. Also the last season was used to strengthen the relationship between Alex and Mason again as Peter wanted. So things overall didn't turn out exactly as he envisioned but it seemed pretty close especially given I doubt Disney took any notes or suggestions from Peter on the ending at that time. While Peter's ending certainly has merit and serves for the series to come full circle, I think the ending we got was pretty satisfying.

[@patricioj.k.1506]

In origin story Alex gave up powers to be with Mason? That is wrong no? She had to be wizard to date werewolf if she would became human she couldn’t date hime..im confused

[@ashchavs]

Max should have kept his powers too!

[@NoThankUBeQuiet]

​@Matthew Doherty Right? I was like that's pretty bang on as to what happened, I mean technically Alex did surrender her powers to her brother he just gave them back. I'm guessing the writers room tried to keep as much as possible. Honestly I like Justin coming around and realizing "No my sister deserves this because she really won" is more beautiful than Alex surrendering

[@NoThankUBeQuiet]

​@@onallyrose1996 Nah cause see Alex actually PRACTICED with her magic and didn't just take lessons

[@frogonwall]

I got goosebumps when Peter said he wanted the very end to be Harper telling the story to kids in bed. I feel like that would have been perfect ❤️

[@stubbornfilly]

I would love that. Reminds me of Smallville

[@Missmagazinebura]

Whos kids ?

[@carina9295]

Like Bob Saget talking to David Henrie

[@frogonwall]

@@Missmagazinebura I don't remember if he said whose but I would assume either Harper's own kids or maybe even Alex's, assuming Harper and Alex would still be best friends!

[@uniraffesaur]

It would have fit so well with the future Harper storyline as well 😭😭

[@dozyghoul]

Knowing the fourth season was written by someone else makes soooo much more sense now in hindsight because Mason became insufferable in the last season and I wondered why his character felt so diffferent from season 3! Thank you guys for putting out this podcast and thank you Peter for giving us 3 amazing seasons of wizards

[@MelissaRodgers1]

Lol yeah I was literally wondering how did Mason go from dreamy to annoying in one season. Now I know the answer

[@nunu850]

Justin’s character as well. Super unlikable

[@keerthanajaishankar1883]

Also makes sense why they never adressed stieves problem

[@lanastrapaccount]

@@nunu850 yesss he was such a jerk!

[@lanastrapaccount]

As well as the finale in general it was so “bleh”. Wasn’t heartfelt at all.

[@haleyomigod]

well now the way that Peter described the ending is what I accept as the ending. I never hated the ending that aired but as people said, Mason was out of character the whole season and Justin being super selfish during the wizard competition is unlike him as well. I honestly think it makes way more sense that Justin wins the competition, and that Alex take after her father by giving up her powers. I remember her saying "that's the most romantic thing I've ever heard in my life" when she first heard the story and also with her being such a daddy's girl, that's such a perfect ending

[@annejia5382]

A lot of characters were out of character the whole season even characters like Dean who probably wasn't even supposed to come back.

[@joelynej9]

Actually, it makes more sense that Alex would win the competition because she experimented more with spells to get herself all the messages so on that aspect I feel like Alex should’ve won. Do you know the underdog but I do agree with Mason being totally different and that should’ve been The way he was in season three instead of season four and I do agree that Justin being selfish wasn’t in his character. The only thing I disagree about what you’re saying is that Alex shouldn’t have one I think it would’ve been too predictable and over done if Justin had a one think it was refreshing having Alex win but the other things you said, I agree with.

[@benjamingonzalez4948]

But also like she couldn’t have given up her powers for Mason bcuz werewolves can’t be with non-wizards. She literally got back in the competition to be with him.

[@chriskagamine358]

@@benjamingonzalez4948 based on what Peter said in this episode, I think he would have done the opposite: Non-wizards (including werewolves) can't be with wizards. Though I don't know how Justin could be with a vampire as a wizard, and Alex with a werewolf as a non-wizard

[@astridjorgensen7971]

disney 👹

[@morganlaissle4266]

This is by far my favorite episode so far. I love finding out things about the show that we would have never known otherwise straight from the source. Peter is such a great guy, and a brilliant showrunner

[@WizardsPod]

So glad you enjoyed it!

[@alexamadison3116]

Deluise crying is always so sweet ❤️

[@elchicosav]

Hes such a sweetheart fr

[@lillieblood800]

I think it's clear that Peter's vision would have really tied the show together beautifully. The character development in the final season felt a bit off. Obviously the cast made the best of what it was, but I really wish we could have seen Murrieta's version.

[@purpleclaws202]

No disrespect to Murrieta but I actually don't mind season 4. I think it was made pretty well. Maybe the only critique is making a side plot of Alex and Harper moving out since it caused a drift from the OG cast but thankfully it didn't last long.

[@nathanieljohnson5908]

@@purpleclaws202 Same!

[@iamchrispaezjr]

That explains why they suddenly shifted towards the “psych! Wizards weren’t really exposed.” I always thought that was weird and stupid and messed with continuity.

[@annejia5382]

​@@purpleclaws202 Mason's character went downhill + Dean's character was butchered + The Russo siblings' relationship with each other in terms of their reactions to each other would be different & better + Harper's ending pov would be great and it would really end just like how it started : an ensemble.

[@purpleclaws202]

@@annejia5382 disagree but ok

[@nataliachavez7607]

I love the theoretical ending with Alex giving up her powers to be with Mason like her dad it would have been so bittersweet.

[@haleywood8040]

I’m confused bc I thought since he was a werewolf, she HAD to be a wizard for them to stay together

[@lucyhydrick4222]

@@haleywood8040 same lol

[@catalinahoney1]

​@@haleywood8040 I think that's something they come up with in the last season, the season where Murrieta was out, so it makes sence that according to him this is not a rule they had to follow in order to stay together

[@blazehokage3609]

Yea I was gonna say wasn’t it the opposite 😂😂😂

[@blazehokage3609]

But tbh, it lowkey makes more sense for her to be a Wizard with mason then to have to give up her powers to be with the magical creature. Ima be honest, the season 4 ending is better than what Murietta imagined.

[@riss7102]

Please get Jake on here I feel like he got the short end of the stick or forgotten about during the last season, now I know why :( I’d love to hear his experience on the show

[@elimardejesus8607]

I believe he was doing the Rio movie so that's why he wasn't there for a while

[@nancydiaz2257]

Omgggggg yes pleaseeeeee

[@day820]

YES

[@WardNightstone]

I know he blamed Selena for the show ending for a while after

[@sarahtheegemini]

Peter’s ending was PERFECT ! ❤️ I want to see it so bad. It’s what the show deserved and I’m sad we didn’t get to see it.

[@purpleclaws202]

We got a good ending tho

[@Sincerelylesliee]

If they do the reboot would for sure love to see that

[@lydiaisabelle7891]

Love how David’s not scared to show his true emotions.. . This is literally me crying bc I miss wizards so much

[@mushroomlena]

David please keep giving us industry knowledge and defining terms! It’s really helpful in understanding the background and we’re not all familiar with the lingo.

[@Anthony-fu6cl]

I always felt like the 4th seasons of Disney shows always have a different tone, but now I understand the situation for Wizards! Disney was messed up for letting Peter go from a show he had such a big part in. And his last day was his birthday? Crazy... Please have him back for more episodes! Loving this podcast.

[@jennabeth6851]

I know what you mean. Hannah montanna in a different house, liv and maddie in la. It always feels off with the last series.

[@purpleclaws202]

Season 4 is Wizards wanst bad tho. It got the most attention

[@VampKat]

@@jennabeth6851Or Austin and Ally with the music academy. Based on what Peter said, I wonder if Disney takes control of *all* shows when they reach their final season 🤔

[@dannyphantom3090]

​@purpleclaws202 wizards s4 isn't bad at all compared to most Disney season 4's honestly I would say it's me 2nd favorite season after season 2

[@aliyaht8351]

⁠@@jennabeth6851Yeah I would have to agree with Hannah Montanna last season I was like, huh like it just felt like a whole new show at that point

[@Ronniecrane123]

I didn’t realize how much of an impact David had on me. I was severely neglected when I was a child and this show was my escape. My mother would lock me away in her trailer and I wouldn’t see other adults or people for weeks to MONTHS at a time, it severely impacted my development and mental health. She also kept my dad from me. David, your voice is SO comforting. It’s reminiscent and nostalgic and it reminds me of an older relative being present in my life. I had no idea at the time, but you became like a dad to me. Listening to you speak is like listening to my dad speak 🥹 this is honestly so weird but i can’t describe the familiarity and comfort I feel while watching these videos.

[@BelenPeralta1]

Oh god I’m so sorry. I’m glad David had such a positive impact. David really was such a great tv dad I hope he knows that

[@hollysteele123]

I am sorry to hear your childhood was like this. David is truly a great TV Dad, so glad you found comfort in him

[@BlackSunshine]

You need to tell him that! Message him! I think that would absolutely make his day to hear .... how sweet.... ❤

[@nathaly1749]

I almost cried too with his ending. It’s so beautiful and just to think that it would tie everything together and Justin would be the one keeping his power without Crumbs random intervention, I just love it. Also the fact that he wouldn’t ruin Mason’s character nor made his relationship with Alex that toxic. I’m sad, I wish they could make the special/reunion as an alternative ending with Peter’s cut

[@youaintmymommaonperiodt8007]

Yeah crumbs randomly giving up was so off

[@brittroobies274]

I actually dislike his ending specifically because Alex would be giving up her magic for "love". Alex was still young and I hate the tropes where female mains sacrifice something for other people happiness. Alex was arguably the most reliant on her magic so it makes sense for her to keep it rather than give it up for a high-school crush. The boys were better off without the magic anyway. I will say Justin could've kept his powers but be bound to school teaching for like 30 years to permanently keep it.

[@allisonhunsaker8481]

When Jennifer said "God I wish I had feelings." I died laughing. 😂😂😂

[@ceciliasnow1931]

"uploaded 23 seconds ago"... what a perfect time to click onto youtube

[@WizardsPod]

Perfect timing!

[@lil.liverss]

every time!

[@tashainamartinez291]

I just have to say, thank you so much, Peter, for making a biracial family happen on Disney. I am half Mexican with two brothers, and Alex was so important to me growing up. I can't even begin to express what a huge role this show played for me.

[@starfiresreign]

31:48 for those who wanna know Peter's ending

[@nar_aspan]

thank youuu

[@hassankhan-jg1dx]

You’re a real one.

[@langstonlygrass2427]

Legend!!!

[@kkhyna]

mvp!!

[@kellym8030]

Thank you I was looking for that comment 😊

[@Jake-d8d]

This is amazing, I love it when shows properly acknowledge the importance of the creator/showrunner and the writers, it would be so interesting to hear from other regular writers who worked on the show to hear their experiences.

[@ashleyxbeauty21]

As a kid I remember the last season being off but I couldn’t tell what it was. I definitely did not enjoy it as much as the other 3 seasons, now it makes soooo much sense. Thank you Peter for making this show so amazing

[@midis_touch]

Im crying right there with David, we should've for sure gotten that ending. Would've loved to see Future Harper return at the end for the reading especially

[@EvelynIrwin]

“Family Game Night” is my favourite episode. We got to see the Russo’s in their angry Italian-Mexican New-Yorker glory 😂

[@Maggielove12]

Same I remember the first time watching that episode and literally laughing my butt off and rewinding to laugh again.

[@JennyThePlatypus]

This episode is answering so many questions I didn’t even know I had

[@iisyko.]

We need an episode with Maria or Jake, or even both lol.

[@poisonedvices6962]

I'm hoping for Maria to be on the quincenera episode recap. Ivd love her take

[@joonant1]

And David Henrie as well. Or if they can get Greg Sulkin or Bridgette Mendler that would be great but I'm not holding my breath on that one.

[@jakegodfrey4320]

Hearing the original showrunner pitch his ending, and therefore really the ending that should have happened, is absolutely amazing. Peter's vision sounds so much better than what we got and would have made so much more sense for the characters. I hope you can bring Peter back and also include other writers because it's so fascinating hearing their stories.

[@aying25]

Knowing that Alex and Stevie are canon is everything I didn't know I needed. As a kid I was oblivious as hell, avoiding my own queerness, but it makes so much sense looking back. Now that I have recently watched the Stevie episodes it's crystal clear that the vibes between Alex and Stevie surpassed friendship. It makes me beyond ecstatic that Peter tried to include queer representation in a way that Disney wouldn't cut it

[@idna1212]

100% agree, it feels so validating to know Peter had Alex's queerness in mind. I almost feel cheated now knowing that Disney robbed us of that queer storyline which could have helped so many of us discover our identities sooner. I always felt so connected to Alex as a kid, now it makes sense lol

[@cherries1702]

I think I missed that part. Do you know the timestamp where they talk about that?

[@aying25]

@@cherries1702 toward the end, one of the last questions. Jen asks if there is a storyline Peter would have liked to explore more

[@cherries1702]

@@aying25 thank you!!

[@BernardoCoutinho]

It's at 56:20

[@cristenelizabeth3424]

David always coming through with “DISNEYYYYY”😆 For real though, I’m loving this podcast and I look forward to it every week. I haven’t finished this episode yet, but I love that you guys bring in guests and getting to understand behind the scenes and just different perspectives. ❤

[@SarahU92]

Gosh I'm shocked about how good s4 could have been with Peter's ending. Having Alex do the same thing as her Dad really would have made everything so full circle!!! I'm truly upset we didn't get that. In David's words *mmmmm disneyyyy* hahaha

[@PokhrajRoy.]

It’s nice to see a new guest on the podcast.

[@ag14562]

THIS IS THE BEST EP YET! Hearing the industry secrets is sooo good and getting more behind the scenes info what i was hoping for from the pod! Jennifer and David's interviewing skills are also fantastic!

[@MBandJETSETTERS4LIFE]

Okay but my favorite lines ever from Jerry Russo that have always made me ctfu is when Theresa tells jerry to give Justin $2.50 and he says “I don’t carry that kind of cash” LMAOOO PLSSS and the second line is the Mother Nature episode when it’s hailing yam sized ice and jerry is out there with a pot shouting “ FREE ICE IM GETTING FREE ICE” and gets knocked out by a yam hail rock 😂😂😂😂😂 his cheap commentary always made me laugh

[@owenleal]

I grew up on Waverly Place and even after I grew out of the Disney Channel shows, I still tuned back in because I heard WoWP was coming to a conclusion. So to see some of the old actors and even writers coming back together to reminisce about the show and in a way give context to a show that was a huge part of my childhood more than alot of the other shows is extremely heartwarming to see. I remember I listened to an interview on Defunctland's channel and it was with the puppeteer for Bear in the Big Blue House, which was another one of my favourite shows as an even smaller child. Its like I'm taking a trip down nostalgia lane.

[@sfalcone0530]

Because of this podcast I’ve been rewatching Wizards AGAIN it still holds up even for a 21 years old to watch it’s even better after alittle 🌱 🔥 💨

[@ffiontill5924]

David’s face whilst Peter is telling how he wished the show ended is so sweet🥺💖 he’s crying oh my heart can’t take it

[@Music-rd3xq]

What a treat to hear from these two actors and the showrunner! My favorite elements of the show were always the world/magic & the slower, more emotional scenes. It seems Murrieta wanted to lean into a more serious tone but was pushed away from it by Disney. What a shame! Jennifer Stone put it so eloquently when she said at 34:21, “I think they tried to add spectacle rather than heart, which was never what the show was about.” Sad to hear Disney fired Murrieta despite the success the show had with him at the helm! I would’ve loved to see what could’ve been, especially after hearing the emotional ending Murrieta had in mind. By the end I was right there tearing up along side DeLuise. It’s moving to see an actor with so much love for the art and the work he was a part of. Thank you so much to the writers, cast, and crew for bringing Wizards of Waverly Place to our screens. It was a magical journey.

[@maori94]

That was PHENOMENAL. I didn't know him. I've always wished they invited the creators of the shows at the talk shows . Thank you. Do more❤❤

[@gracelessw.e]

God, seeing David and Jen interacting with each other is so cute im actually tearing up!!! With the favorite episode part where Jen is being so sweet about it! “You think that’s everyone’s favorite” And David being so cute and goofy sort of fanboying over Peter! Ahh! Y’all are all adorable!

[@baieeleaf]

Unexpected emotions when he was saying what his ending would have been!! 🥺 wow that would’ve been so great & love the idea for the spin off! Would absolutely watch that 🤞💛💛

[@Iumekai]

I cried for a solid 5 minutes, I’m glad I wasn’t the only one tho!, it was a very nice interview and very special, it’s amazing to get to see the person that created the best media of my childhood and more so to see that even the actors enjoyed him as well. The industry alway seems like a tough place but it’s nice to see that there are a lot of people that do their job with love and their heart on the right place❤

[@sadiem4179]

I really love that y’all are bringing other members of the show on to talk about their experiences. I can’t wait to see more!

[@jenniferlegrand9472]

I love how organic this episode was, and am hoping that we will see more episodes like this. I could listen to an entire podcast about David's experiences in Hollywood, and the people he has known.

[@aliah7579]

Perfect way to start my week 🪄💛 love this podcast so much!

[@WizardsPod]

We are so glad you are here! 🫶

[@reynoelmoran3155]

The production is absolutely genius!

[@WizardsPod]

Thank you! 🫶

[@alexiamenjivar4785]

i’m so excited for Mondays now , i’m so in love with both of u guys!!

[@joonant1]

Mondays and Wednesdays. Monday's for wizard's. Wednesdays for Ned's.

[@WizardsPod]

Thank you!! 🥹🫶

[@NoThankUBeQuiet]

When you get to the finale I'd love it if you either brought him back or did like an extra long panel discussion about the finale

[@annejia5382]

Up

[@annejia5382]

Up

[@annejia5382]

Uuup

[@annejia5382]

Uuuuup

[@annejia5382]

Uuuuuuuup

[@user-th8fz5od5d]

for anyone looking for it: 56:21 is where they talk about alex and stevie!

[@stxphh]

IM SO SAD THAT HIS ENDING OF THE SHOW DIDNT HAPPEN.. I was literally gonna cry with David ! such a bummer but im glad to hear the better version

[@aslamiyamohamed2526]

Peter seems like a wealth of knowledge! If he ever started posting business related things on his instagram, KZbin, or even on this podcast I would love to listen to more of his stories and perspective

[@kellykim0226]

I really LOVE YOU GUYS your podcast and WOWP show itself is literally the only reason I should survive in this world

[@WizardsPod]

We love you too!

[@TheWritersBlockOfficial]

When Prof. Murrieta first accepted a Teaching Position at ASU, he zoomed in to chat with the Screenwriting Class I was in. I think I was one of maybe 2 people that actually asked him about the craft of screenwriting rather than WoWP questions. I asked, "when you're writing comedy, do you write the jokes and create a story around that, or write the story and find the jokes/comedy within the given situation." He explained that he almost always led with story, and I think that's why you see such a strong attachment to the world and characters built out in that show. There is a continuity of character, with each undergoing progressions of their own, that really makes the show resonate with people and stick in their minds longer than other series of a similar nature.

[@valeriarossini543]

34:26 glad to know I wasn't the only person crying at this point

[@sealuck99]

This was such a good vibes, wholesome episode

[@WizardsPod]

Thanks for watching with us! ✨

[@anandaferraresi]

OMG Alex giving up her magic for Mason and their relationship finally working out and her dad giving her advice on it! Gosh it's all I ever wanted, and Harper reading it for the kids! WHY DISNEY WHY??

[@multifanderisverycrafty]

Mmmmmmm… DISNEY.

[@stellalalamonroe]

Bad Disney

[@purplechicken86]

Personally, I really appreciate every time David explains something because, yeah, not everyone knows it, but some people might not know *what* to search for to find a good answer.

[@payettelune6076]

Honestly seeing that the cast I grew up watching are truly so wholesome and kind-hearted means the world to me! ❤

[@baenanabish1192]

I listen to this every Monday on my way home from work!! A part of my routine now :)

[@WizardsPod]

We love to hear that. 🥰

[@Defalt_Setting]

Jennifer's omnipod going off in the background was freaking me out. I turned my whole room upside down trying to find which old pod was beeping

[@joshthone4012]

I was actively searching for this comment thank god I wasn’t just hearing things

[@LaBellesGrace]

I'm right there with you on the sentimentality, David. That ending is the definition of perfection. I love the full circle - massive call back to that one episode when Jerry said he gave up his powers for love, and Alex showed a soft side towards the idea of that sacrifice ughhh 😭 I don't mind season 4, but can we have a whole write just for that alone? Movie recape, animated, or even just a frickin' novel... Absolutely loved this episode! One of my favourites so far

[@kayyemess]

Looking back even as a kid, i didn’t enjoy the last season. Now at 25 years old I binge watched the first 3 seasons and then fell off at the 4th season AGAIN because it is so disjointed and just not the same show. Makes so much sense, thank you Peter for sharing how the show actually ended!!

[@chefdavidrivoli]

You guys did have a big kill count for WOWP: Stevie, Jeremy Fromscience, those girls who turned into apples, etc. Out of all the creatures you had on the show, I wish there were Mermaids 🧜‍♀️

[@joonant1]

I agree 100% on the Mermaid take. Was waiting all that time no Mermaid. If there is ever a reboot I would like one.

[@allana1997]

There was sea monkeys…

[@oneearrabbit]

Stevie isn’t dead.

[@russell1096]

@@oneearrabbit she was frozen and then shattered into a million pieces

[@oneearrabbit]

@@russell1096 In response to fans wondering if Stevie had died, Todd J. Greenwald followed up on Stevie's storyline. He stated that "Stevie was fused back together and sent off to an island for 6 months of 'Soul Rehab'. She now lives a happy, fulfilling life back in the Wiz World with her new dogs, Mark and Susan. He also stated that this will never be shown in an episode, and Stevie's storyline has ended. Disney wiki

[@growingupwithdisney]

I think Wizards ended relatively how it was supposed to. But there’s more story to tell for a reboot, they should have Justin start a class for wizards that lost their family competition to get a second chance at being wizards. And Max could be a part of that class, and grow/develop. They can change the wizard system, and can even confirm what Future Harper said about wizardry getting exposed. My recent KZbin video is about the idea

[@purpleclaws202]

No. Max should run the sub shop.

[@iamchrispaezjr]

I would love to see that. Always hated that cop out about wizards being exposed

[@ricardo_sotorbs]

Future Harper was obsessed still with Justin as Harper was in the earlier seasons. The Harper in the last part of season 3 and 4 wasn't. I always assumed that some of the events that happened along with their several plays with time travel changed the future and that we won't be seeing the future as that future Harper episode suggested

[@growingupwithdisney]

@@ricardo_sotorbs I agree, maybe a spin-off series can add a time-travel aspect that could change the way Future Harper said things would happen like

[@Ellie-qq9zm]

I feel so grateful that I get to listen to a new episode of your podcast today ❤ I live in Nashville and it’s been a very depressing day for me and my community. Listening to this episode today was such a comfort. I love you Jenn & David!

[@Ken93Cy]

Wizards was and still is one of my favourite shows to watch because it had so much heart. To hear how Peter wanted to end the series just warned my heart so much especially the part about Selena and Greg s characters.

[@SoniaJoie]

The original ending idea!! That would have been so nice. Also the section about Alex & Stevie made me think it could be fun to have Hayley on the podcast at some point. And DEFINITELY Jake at some point (we missed him in so much of the last season, but Max was always a fave of mine!) This podcast is really fun, I love hearing all the stories (and listening to David's tangents, which definitely don't put me to sleep! xD) Having fun rewatching the show along with it, too. It's been so long and nostalgia aside, Wizards just still holds up!

[@biancabrounti649]

When David cried, I cried! He’s such a sweet soul 💕🤧

[@camila160101]

This was soooo entertaining to watch! I really hope that you guys will be able to bring the other writers and the rest of cast members like Jake, David Henrie or Maria to the podcast too

[@kieranhealy8279]

All of them ❤️ the whole cast! That would be magical

[@ashveensingh3389]

Omg yes! Would love to see Jake T Austin on an episode!!!

[@growingupwithdisney]

Me too, I gotta hear his insight on Max. Did he like the ending for him (cuz personally I did NOT, Max deserved better)

[@ashveensingh3389]

Yes I agree! I’m so curious about his perspective of the entire show too! I was always a huge fan of max and rooted for him just as much as the others

[@purpleclaws202]

​@@growingupwithdisney I disagree. There was a lot of build up for him to be the new owner.

[@youaintmymommaonperiodt8007]

The character writing for max was horrendous. It’s not right for him yo just play stupid all the time and rarely be in the show. He cared for his family a lot, should’ve had more character development for him.

[@jmallnhismonkeysidekick6347]

I binged wizards last time i watched it so i didn't really know exactly when season 3 shifted to season 4 but now that they talk about it i think i do see all the changes

[@bookreader1515]

when he said, I'm glad somebody like it, aww Peter, we love it

[@MC21114]

Wait so canonically, Werewolves would have been able to have a relationship with a human? I remember that being a BIG part of why Alex needed to win and keep her powers

[@oneearrabbit]

Because that came from season 4 Alex Gives Up. Peter Murrieta was not involved in the show during season 4.

[@yogobriane1156]

@@oneearrabbit Yeah, I personally love Peter's idea, but I think the way Season 4 handled Alex and Mason made more sense. It doesn't make sense for mortals to be with non-mortals because there's an obvious power imbalance, especially with werewolves since Mason did mention that he can't control himself sometimes. If we wanted to explore Alex giving up her powers for her relationship, it probably would've worked better if they brought Stevie back and made her Alex's love interest in Season 4 since she would've been a mortal.

[@alexmiller4755]

@@yogobriane1156 Or somehow Mason loses his power. Instead of being a werewolf after the bite, he's either a dog or a normal human. Mason would've chosen human to be with Alex and vice versa. Edit: Because Alex giving up her power is such a major step up story-wise and character-wise. It really shows her growth after 4 seasons and makes her relationship with Mason so much less...well...toxic.

[@nathanieljohnson5908]

@@alexmiller4755 To be fair, she did initially give up her powers in the beginning of season 4. And then on the last episode, she helped Justin when he was stuck and then he ended up technically winning

[@alexmiller4755]

@@nathanieljohnson5908 she gave up because she purely thought she couldn't keep up with the competition anymore. That's utter laziness, not sacrifices. And to be frank I found her trying to free Justin out of that tiny bush is straight up bs and bad writing, nothing inspiring in that.

[@Saphiera270]

i really admire how resolute peter is in his visiom, he had such incredible ideas and made the show so special! i loved the movie, and I'm worried to know what it would've been without him...

[@sushigirl648]

28:44 family game might I felt was the funniest side plot episode. Thought I was the only one

[@mariaanaya7539]

I feel like David tearing up made me tear up partly because I feel like he feels like he was robbed of that experience of having Peter’s version come to life and being able to be a part of that moment in history :(

[@tamaraalhusseini2434]

Such a beautiful ending. So cathartic to hear the original writer explain it. It’s the true ending and it makes me feel such closure, such beautiful storytelling, way bigger and better than any Disney show it was always my favourite ❤️

[@journiepope]

I wish so so much that we got that ending to the series. That would have been the perfect ending with the perfect amount of closure. Wizards was by far my favorite show growing up but the fourth season just didn’t do it for me and that’s always been upsetting. Thank you for bringing Peter onto the show and sharing this with us❤️

[@Ac-dz3xy]

Got here asap. I look forward to these Monday podcasts !!

[@ebonyhernandez4563]

I LOVE hearing from Peter!! that ending is perfect and that's what I'm gonna remember as the ending now

[@larabellll]

Right now no KZbinrs are really appealing much to me anymore but having grown up watching Wizards this has become a new binge show for me. Thanks Jennifer and David - you’re doing a great job on this show and you’re always easy to listen to! ❤❤

[@user-ti8px6rk5s]

this is the best and most coziest part of my monday!

[@WizardsPod]

Thanks for tuning in!

[@growingupwithdisney]

I AGREE ON ALEX AND STEVIE 59:22, maybe in a reboot🧐they were a lot more compatible with any other Alex boyfriends. All of Alex relationships seem like they’re supposed to be short-lived, Dean, Mason, and Stevie. The only relationship Alex has that’s life-long is Harper (but that’s more platonic)

[@MusicNerdDavid]

Stevie died tho?

[@oneearrabbit]

@@MusicNerdDavid Nope. “In response to fans wondering if Stevie had died, Todd J. Greenwald followed up on Stevie's storyline. He stated that "Stevie was fused back together and sent off to an island for 6 months of 'Soul Rehab'. She now lives a happy, fulfilling life back in the Wiz World with her new dogs, Mark and Susan. He also stated that this will never be shown in an episode, and Stevie's storyline has ended.” From Disney wiki.

[@stubbornfilly]

@@oneearrabbit thank you for explaining, but I don’t understand the answer from Wiki. So she didn’t die, but is alone on an island somewhere?

[@oneearrabbit]

@@stubbornfilly She was fused back together and went to an island for “soul rehab”. Basically made good again. After that she just went on to live in the Wizard World as a regular wizard (though it isn’t clear if she has powers once again). So she never died, she was put back together and went to rehab.

[@hauntbones]

Agreed!!!

[@marisoltbh]

I always thought I aged out of the final season of wowp but turns out he was the missing piece.

[@zoefegan4096]

I rewatched during a covid lockdown and season 4 made less and less sense to the point I gave up. Was great up to there.

[@MANDiiB00]

Omg I knew that was based on GWAR!! They were my first concert 😂😂😂 So funny

[@rendrick7270]

This episode touched my heart

[@disneymlbfan]

"Let the man have his favorites " 28:02 that is funny 😂

[@astridmyst]

I LOVE this episode of the podcast so so much! Hearing all these stories is so incredible. The way Wizards truly ended

[@L0LrevneD]

This makes so much sense! Now I know why season 4 felt so different from the others. I liked some aspects of the 4th season, like Alex taking more charge and saving the world multiple times. And they finally gave Max more depth. But they really screwed up Justin’s character and Alex and Mason’s relationship. The ending explained here paired with the strengths of the actual ending would have been perfection!

[@kaylah9206]

Ooh an hour long? I’ve been waiting for this

[@yogobriane1156]

It's kind of interesting how much they seem to hate Season 4 since I'd consider Seasons 3 and 4 to be the peak of Wizards. Seasons 1 and 2 were great, but Seasons 3 and 4 were when the show started to actually become really serialized and find its own footing. It wasn't just a Disney comedy show anymore. It turned into a genuinely good show with stakes and storylines. Season 4 especially, we explored so many mature themes like Alex learning to live life as a mortal, Alex and Harper moving out, themes of growing up, Alex and Harper's friendship being tested, Alex and Mason's relationship being tested, and the sibling rivalry between Alex, Justin, and Max. Seasons 3 and 4 are why Wizards still holds up as a show. Like if Wizards were to come back as a series, it wouldn't survive with the format of Seasons 1 and 2. As much as I love those earlier seasons, there were just too many unserious writing moments like the WizTec arcs, and the characters didn't develop nearly as much in those seasons compared to Seasons 3 and 4 with each of them having their own character arcs. I don't know. I just think it's strange how they seem to treat Season 4 as if it was a horrible existence that ruined Wizards' legacy when it was the complete opposite and actually peaked Wizards in my opinion.

[@stubbornfilly]

I remember liking it

[@Moolung]

I like season 1&2 because they were more carefree but i think the reason why alot of ppl remember the later seasons more and they were more serious was because the kids that were watching also grew up and matured so it was hitting on themes that were more relatable for teens/tweens .Season 1&2 were comedic genius writing that were great for their target audience ages at the time. I thought they were the funniest but as everyone who started watching became older they had to become more serious too.

[@yogobriane1156]

@@Moolung Yeah, I mean don't get me wrong, Seasons 1 and 2 were great, but I think it just rubs me the wrong way that some of the cast members keep talking about how horrible Season 4 and the movie were. While it's true that things from Seasons 1 and 2 are going viral (Crazy Funky Junky Hat and Alex's comic dress), the Movie and Seasons 3 and 4 are what cemented Wizards as a pop culture classic. Season 4 was very sensible, and the movie was perfect the way it was, so I just don't understand the continuous hatred for them as if they're a stain in Wizards' legacy when they're actually some of the most timeless and mature stories that Wizards has ever told.

[@kylissasimmons342]

Yea you’re right ! I actually loved those seasons. Of course I loved the first two as well but I continued enjoying the stories and how they had some more serious moments like you said. I think season 4 was still pretty good but the only thing I do agree on is what Jennifer and David mentioned in one of the other podcast episodes how towards the end of season 4 like when Alex and Harper moved out, they had less family scenes or something and it didn’t feel the same. I can see how that can feel for them as actors. Also, now knowing that Peter wasn’t apart of season 4, that was probably hard for them all. It’s hard when you’re used to working with certain people. You become like a family. I hate that Disney did that to him but other than that, S4 was still good.

[@willowedwarriortarot5128]

I was right there with David crying. Wizards was truly smth else

[@astoudiouf8135]

Omg this ending would’ve made so much more sense 😭😭😭i love it

[@ericarobinson6232]

I just CANNOT get enough of DeLuise’s “grrr… disneyyy!!”

[@WithAngelWings]

I love how David expresses himself and his emotions so openly 💕 we stan an emotionally intelligent king 🫶🏽🫶🏽

[@adrijoc]

You close a chapter in my life thanks for sharing this with us.

[@Disney15ish]

Just realized a funny coincidence about the idea of Harper reading to kids. After Wizards, Jennifer Stone starred in a Nickelodeon show called "Deadtime Stories" where she played a babysitter telling scary stories to the children she babysits.

[@jcdamane]

Came here to say that I love you guys. I grew up watching this show and seeing you all interact in such a positive way years later makes me feel warm. 🥰

[@emyleeher3429]

Omggggg I would’ve LOVEEDD that ending!!! That would have been so beautiful!!

[@jmicheal2012]

my favorite episode yet. love you guys.

[@mina01202]

I've rewatched season 4 and I totally understand what you mean, it feels so weird, it's kinda sad really 😔 Although I still watched and enjoyed because watching y'all is so comforting to me 💗

[@path5657]

This has become my favourite part of the week. Love you guys!

[@WizardsPod]

Us too! Thank you for being here! 💜