Wicked: A New Chapter Unfolds in ‘Wicked: For Good’
The anticipation for Wicked: For Good continues to grow, especially after the recent casting update that reveals the absence of two iconic figures from the original production. Fans may remember the sensational Wicked that hit theaters last November, with Ariana Grande captivating hearts as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo embodying Elphaba. Both are set to reprise their roles in this highly awaited sequel, but not without some bittersweet news.
In a heartfelt interview with ExtraTV, Kristin Chenoweth confirmed that she and Idina Menzel, the original stars who portrayed Glinda and Elphaba on Broadway, will not be making appearances in the upcoming film. While they made brief cameos in the first movie as new characters, Chenoweth emphasizes that this sequel is all about showcasing the new cast. Her sentiments reflect a sense of pride and honor, stating:
“We are not. But Idina and I feel really good about it. It’s their time. We had our moment and we were very honored they included us, but it’s their turn.â€Â
Embracing a New Era in Oz
The return of Grande and Erivo to the forefront casts a fresh light on the narrative of Wicked: For Good, allowing it to delve deeper into the enchanting world of Oz. They are joined by a talented ensemble that includes Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, and Marissa Bode. In contrast to the original film’s playful nods to the Broadway stars, which served as delightful Easter eggs, the sequel aims for a more poignant tone.
Interestingly, Chenoweth and Menzel were credited merely as “Wiz-O-Mania Super Stars†in their first film appearances, which sets the stage for a clear shift in narrative focus. The sequel is expected to adopt a more somber and emotional arc, bridging the existing storyline closer to the beginning of The Wizard of Oz. As revealed in the trailer for Wicked: For Good, this new direction suggests there simply isn’t space for cameo appearances from these beloved characters.
While the spontaneous joy of Chenoweth and Menzel’s cameo provided a nostalgic connection, taking that risk again could dilute the special nature of their first appearance. By allowing a fresh cast to take the reins, director Jon M. Chu prioritizes a narrative driven by a current storyline that resonates with the audience.
Grande, Erivo, and the supporting cast have proven to be highlights in the original film, establishing a strong foundation that can carry Glinda and Elphaba’s journey towards its compelling conclusion. Although it’s disappointing not to see Chenoweth and Menzel in Wicked: For Good, their decision to step aside feels both respectful and necessary for the film’s evolution.
As excitement swells around the upcoming release, fans are left eager to see how this new chapter unfolds. With an official release date set for November 21, 2025, there’s plenty of time to speculate how this beloved tale will continue in its new formation.
Source: ExtraTV