Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo: A Stellar Comparison
Alright, Wicked fans — let’s dive into the enchanting cast of this upcoming film! With Emerald City shimmering just around the corner, Wicked is poised to light up theaters on November 22. We’re excited to share all the essential details about your favorite characters in Oz. If you adored The Wonderful Wizard of Oz or the Broadway sensation, brace yourselves for this two-part cinematic journey that unveils the origin stories of beloved Oz icons — from the misunderstood Elphaba to the fabulously flamboyant Galinda (yes, that’s Glinda with a “Ga!”). And this is only the beginning! Wicked Part Two is set to premiere next fall, promising even more magic, mischief, and perhaps a flying monkey or two.
With that said, it’s clear that Wicked is set to leave a memorable mark — one that might just be a little green — on movie screens throughout the year. Whether you’re drawn to the friendships, rivalries, or the spectacle of flying monkeys, we’ve curated a comprehensive guide to Oz’s most vibrant characters and the exceptionally talented stars who are breathing life into them! Welcome aboard this magical ride.
Discover the Talented Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba Thropp
Elphaba Thropp: The Misunderstood Witch
In a role as vibrant as her green skin, Cynthia Erivo takes on the iconic character of Elphaba, the future Wicked Witch of the West. As both a Broadway powerhouse and Hollywood star, Erivo showcases her award-winning prowess in portraying the social outcast who transforms into a rebellious leader. Her journey, from a misunderstood teenager to a formidable witch, lies at the heart of Wicked’s captivating narrative. Following her groundbreaking performances that wowed audiences in her Academy Award-nominated role in Harriet and her Tony Award-winning turn in The Color Purple, Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba is primed to take flight (or should we say, defy gravity).
Experience Ariana Grande’s Transformation into Galinda Upland
Galinda Upland: The Glamorous Good Witch
Playing the bubbly, pre-Good Witch version of Glinda, pop sensation Ariana Grande transforms into Galinda, the beauty queen turned beloved enchantress. As Galinda befriends Elphaba during their school days at Shiz University, she begins as Oz’s social butterfly — and thanks to Grande’s stunning vocals, her stage legacy (first brought to life by Kristin Chenoweth) is in incredibly capable hands.
While Grande has already achieved remarkable milestones in her career—including multiple Grammy wins, chart-topping singles, and a notable stint as a coach on The Voice—her portrayal of Galinda in Wicked signifies a significant milestone. This role not only fulfills a childhood dream but also marks her grand entrance into the film industry as a leading actress.
Be Captivated by Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible
Madame Morrible: The Manipulative Headmistress
The formidable Michelle Yeoh brings her Oscar-winning talent to the role of Madame Morrible, the strict headmistress of Shiz University who has a penchant for the Wizard’s regime. With her political scheming and intolerance for Oz’s “second-class” animal citizens, Madame Morrible wields her authority with an ominous flair that adds depth to her character and the story.
Yeoh is renowned for her remarkable performances in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Star Trek: Discovery, and the critically acclaimed Best Picture winner, Everything Everywhere All at Once.
