Beetlejuice Beetlejuice: What Happened to the Maitlands?

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice: What Happened to the Maitlands?

As a longtime fan of Tim Burton’s quirky and imaginative films, I have to say that while it’s always a delight to revisit the world of Beetlejuice, the absence of Adam and Barbara Maitland in the sequel left me with a pang of nostalgia. The original film was such a unique blend of comedy, horror, and love story, with Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis bringing depth and charm to their roles as the ghostly couple.


Tim Burton’s 1988 film “Beetlejuice” showcased a captivating cast of characters, with Adam and Barbara Maitland’s relationship taking center stage. Despite Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, and Catherine O’Hara reprising their roles in the sequel, Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis, who originally played Adam and Barbara, did not return for this new installment. However, since they play crucial roles in the characters’ journey, the sequel does address where these characters are now. “Beetlejuice” is currently playing in theaters.

WARNING: Mild spoilers below for Beetlejuice Beetlejuice

In the original flick, my character, the Maitland, met an untimely demise in a car mishap, leaving us bound to our residence as the Deetz clan moved in. To get rid of them, we inadvertently summoned Beetlegeuse (played by Michael Keaton), but things took an unexpected turn when Adam and Barbara started bonding with young Lydia (Ryder). Eventually, we managed to make amends with the Deetz family, banishing Beetlegeuse and his diabolical plan to wed Lydia in a forbidden union.

In the following installment, Lydia continues to maintain ties with the spirit world, utilizing these powers to conduct a ghost-themed talk show. After her father’s passing, she, along with her mother Delia (O’Hara) and daughter Astrid (Jenna Ortega), revisit their ancestral home. During their stay, Lydia shares her past encounters in the house and her link to the Maitlands with Astrid. Lydia verifies that they discovered a way, or “loophole,” which enabled the Maitlands to transition into the afterlife.

In the film “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” Adam’s miniature town diorama plays a significant role. Rory, Lydia’s boyfriend (portrayed by Justin Theroux), summons Beetlegeuse by uttering his name thrice while interacting with the model. This is one of the few instances in the sequel that offers meaningful insights into the characters, although the original movie hinted at a long-standing bond between Lydia and the Maitlands.

Filmmaker Burton previously confirmed why he opted not to include the Maitlands in a major way.

Burton stated to PEOPLE last month that he chose not to merely check off boxes for a sequel. Although they were crucial elements in the original, his attention was elsewhere at the time. What drew him to this sequel was the opportunity to explore three generations of mother, daughter, and granddaughter. This dynamic would serve as the core of the story. He couldn’t have made this film personally back then, in 1989 or whatever.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is in theaters now.

Are you curious if the Maitlands feature in the next installment? Connect with Patrick Cavanaugh personally via Twitter or Instagram for a chat about everything Star Wars and horror!

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2024-09-06 20:10