Digital Sales Numbers Set Record for Universal Entertainment
Wicked continues to generate significant revenue for Universal Pictures, showcasing its enduring popularity and appeal among audiences.
Released in theaters across the United States in November 2024, the highly anticipated film features stellar performances from Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba Thropp and Ariana Grande as Galinda Upland. On December 31, 2024, it became available for Premium EST (digital ownership) and PVOD (digital rental), allowing fans to enjoy this captivating story from the comfort of their homes.
Unveiling Wicked’s Impressive Earnings from Digital Sales
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Wicked has raked in over $70 million in digital sales during its initial week on PVOD and Premium EST across the United States and Canada. Such figures, which are typically kept under wraps, highlight the film’s remarkable performance and the excitement it has generated among viewers eager to experience this cinematic masterpiece.
The report emphasizes that this achievement marks the largest first day and week for any Universal theatrical title transitioning to PVOD. On its first day, Wicked outperformed Universal’s next biggest hit, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, by doubling its earnings, showcasing its immense popularity and drawing power.
In comparison, The Super Mario Bros. Movie generated $44 million during its first week on PVOD, illustrating how Wicked has set a new benchmark in digital sales for Universal Pictures.
The Hollywood Reporter further elaborates that Universal typically releases its major films for home viewing after their fifth weekend in theaters. However, in a strategic move, the studio opted to extend the theatrical run of Wicked by an additional week, transforming its release into a New Year’s Eve event perfect for families. Following this exclusive 39-day theatrical period, Wicked will enjoy a two-and-a-half-month premium home entertainment window prior to its debut on NBCUniversal’s streaming platform, Peacock.
In total, Wicked has accumulated approximately $683.2 million at the global box office during its theatrical run, further solidifying its status as a blockbuster hit.
Directed by the talented Jon M. Chu, Wicked also features a remarkable cast, including Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero Tigelaar, Ethan Slater as Boq Woodsman, Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, Jeff Goldblum as The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, Marissa Bode as Nessarose Thropp, and Peter Dinklage lending his voice to Dr. Dillamond, all contributing to the film’s rich narrative and engaging performances.
Fans of the franchise can also look forward to the highly anticipated sequel, Wicked: For Good, which is set to be released in the United States on November 21, 2025, promising to continue the enchanting story that has captured the hearts of many.
