Aunt Zelda’s New Chapter: 7 Surprising Facts About Beth Broderick’s Life, Career, And Her 2025 Hallmark Reunion

Beth Broderick, the iconic actress beloved by a generation as the brilliant and slightly eccentric Aunt Zelda from *Sabrina the Teenage Witch*, is currently enjoying a vibrant career resurgence, with a major new project that has fans buzzing in late 2024 and heading into 2025. This new chapter sees her not only revisiting her magical past alongside her former co-star, Caroline Rhea (Aunt Hilda), but also cementing her status as a versatile performer, writer, and director. The latest updates reveal a busy schedule that spans from festive holiday films on the Hallmark Channel to compelling stage work and a surprising, near-miss encounter with an alligator in November 2024, proving that life for the former Spellman matriarch is anything but dull.

Beth Broderick: Complete Biography and Profile

Elizabeth Alice Broderick, known professionally as Beth Broderick, is an American actress, director, and writer whose career has spanned over four decades in film, television, and theater. Her ability to transition seamlessly between comedic and dramatic roles has made her a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

• Full Name: Elizabeth Alice Broderick
• Date of Birth: February 24, 1959
• Age (as of December 2025): 66 years old
• Place of Birth: Falmouth, Kentucky, U.S.
• Spouse: Scott Paetty (m. 2005)
• Notable Roles: Zelda Spellman in *Sabrina the Teenage Witch* (1996–2003), Diane Janssen in *Sharp Objects* (2018), Carol in *Always and Forever Christmas* (2019), and Barbara in *Holiday Mismatch* (Upcoming 2025).
• Career Highlights: Founding member of the New York-based AIDS organization, Momentum. Has directed episodes of television, including *Sabrina the Teenage Witch*, and has several original scripts in development.
• Education: Attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Pasadena, California.

The Magical Reunion: Beth Broderick and Caroline Rhea’s Hallmark Movie

The biggest news for fans of the classic *Sabrina the Teenage Witch* series is the highly anticipated reunion between Beth Broderick and Caroline Rhea. The two actresses, who played the iconic witch sisters Aunt Zelda and Aunt Hilda, are set to co-star in the new Hallmark Channel movie, *Holiday Mismatch*.

This project is a delightful return to form for the duo, though this time they are playing non-magical sisters. The film, which is expected to be a staple of the 2025 holiday season, features Broderick as Barbara. The excitement surrounding the movie is palpable, as it marks the first major on-screen collaboration for the two actresses since they left the original *Sabrina* series in 2002.

• 7 Shocking Things Jessica Capshaw Revealed About Growing Up With Steven Spielberg As Her Stepfather 892ho

Their enduring chemistry, which was the comedic and emotional backbone of the Spellman household for seven seasons, is a major draw for the family-friendly Hallmark audience. The reunion highlights a trend of nostalgic casting that reconnects beloved TV stars with their dedicated fan bases, bringing a touch of comforting familiarity to new holiday narratives. This move into the "cozy holiday movie" genre, often featuring themes of family, love, and community, perfectly aligns with Broderick’s warm on-screen persona.

Beyond the Cauldron: Deepening the Dramatic and Directorial Career

While Aunt Zelda remains her most recognizable role, Beth Broderick has consistently worked to expand her resume, taking on challenging dramatic roles and moving behind the camera as a director and writer. Her post-*Sabrina* career demonstrates a deliberate effort to avoid typecasting and explore the full range of her artistic talents.

The Shift to Serious Drama: Sharp Objects and Film

One of Broderick’s most critically acclaimed recent roles was as Diane Janssen in the 2018 HBO miniseries, *Sharp Objects*, opposite Amy Adams. This dark, psychological thriller showcased her ability to handle complex, mature material, providing a stark contrast to the lighthearted comedy of her sitcom days. The role was lauded for its nuanced performance, proving her versatility to both critics and a new generation of viewers. She also starred in the Civil War drama, *Echoes of War*, further demonstrating her commitment to diverse cinematic projects.

• The One Where They Tanked Jokes 15 Shocking New Secrets From The Friends Tv Show Behind The Scenes G9zdh

In November 2024, Broderick was seen attending the screening for *The Merry Gentlemen*, indicating her continued involvement in supporting new and independent film work. Her commitment extends beyond acting, as evidenced by her recurring work in the Christmas movie landscape, including the Lifetime movie *Always and Forever Christmas*, where she played the role of Carol.

A Hidden Talent: Directing and Writing

What many fans may not realize is that Broderick is also an accomplished director and writer. She is credited with directing an episode of *Sabrina, the Teenage Witch*, a significant step for an actress on a major network show. Her passion for storytelling has led her to write several scripts, with reports indicating she has penned approximately five original screenplays. At least two of these scripts are reportedly in pre-production, suggesting that her work as a creative force behind the camera is set to gain more prominence in the coming years.

Broderick’s move into directing is a natural progression for an actress with her depth of experience, allowing her to shape narratives and mentor new talent. Her focus on developing her own material ensures a fresh, unique perspective in her upcoming projects, solidifying her status as a multi-hyphenate artist in Hollywood.

• The Chilling True Story 5 Key Facts About Richard Evonitz The Serial Killer Who Kidnapped Kara Robinson Chamberlain Xpjje

Philanthropy, Personal Life, and a Close Call in Florida

Broderick's life away from the set is defined by a strong commitment to activism and a stable personal life. She has been married to actor Scott Paetty since 2005. Their long-standing marriage offers a quiet stability that contrasts with the often-turbulent lives of Hollywood stars. However, her life recently made headlines for a surprising reason: a near-miss with wildlife.

Founding Momentum: AIDS Activism

Long before her time on *Sabrina*, Broderick was a dedicated activist. She was a founding member of Momentum, a pioneering organization in New York City established to assist people living with AIDS. This charitable work, which began during the height of the AIDS crisis, showcases her deep commitment to social causes and community support—a facet of her life that often goes overlooked by casual viewers.

The Alligator Incident: A November 2024 Scare

In a bizarre and widely reported incident from November 2024, Beth Broderick had a close call with an alligator while in Florida. The actress was reportedly "an inch" away from being attacked, a shocking event that she later recounted to the media. This unexpected brush with danger is a reminder that even beloved TV stars face real-world hazards, and it provided a memorable, if terrifying, anecdote for her fans.

From the magical world of the Spellman family to the dramatic weight of *Sharp Objects*, and now to a charming reunion on the Hallmark Channel, Beth Broderick’s career is a testament to her enduring talent and adaptability. Her upcoming projects, particularly *Holiday Mismatch* with Caroline Rhea, promise to bring her back into the spotlight, thrilling fans who have followed her journey for decades. Her work as a writer and director, coupled with her history of philanthropy, paints a picture of a dedicated, multi-talented artist who continues to evolve and surprise her audience.