Introducing the Wicked-ly talented cast behind the biggest musical moment of the year.
With the holiday season just on the horizon, one title has quickly emerged as one of the most anticipated films: Wicked. Universal Pictures' adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical is set to dazzle audiences, centring around the complex friendship between Elphaba and Glinda. While this relationship is the heart of the story, the film has assembled a stellar supporting cast set to bring depth and excitement to the adaptation. Here’s a closer look at the six biggest characters and the talented actors bringing them to life.
Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba
Leading the cast is Cynthia Erivo, taking on the iconic role of Elphaba, the misunderstood, green-skinned protagonist. Erivo is no stranger to powerful performances, having won a Tony Award for her role as Celine Harris in the Broadway revival of The Color Purple. In Wicked, Elphaba starts as a misunderstood student at Shiz University, often ridiculed for her green complexion. As the story unfolds, she transforms into a powerful freedom fighter, challenging the corrupt rule of the Wizard of Oz. Erivo’s portrayal promises to bring both strength and vulnerability to the role, making Elphaba a character to root for.
Ariana Grande as Glinda
Best known for her Grammy-winning pop career and her early rise to fame on Nickelodeon’s Victorious, Ariana Grande steps into the shoes of Glinda. This marks Grande’s first leading role in a feature film, a significant milestone in her career. Glinda is beautiful, popular, and initially at odds with Elphaba, though the two eventually form a close but complicated friendship. Grande’s portrayal will explore Glinda’s journey from a superficial student to a wise and conflicted figure, grappling with her opposing ideologies and the corruption within the systems she once benefited from.
Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero
Jonathan Bailey, who rose to fame through his role as Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s hit series Bridgerton, takes on the role of Fiyero. Fiyero is a charming Winkie prince who finds himself caught between his head and heart, as he navigates a complicated love triangle with Glinda and Elphaba. Fiyero’s story is one of internal struggle, making him a compelling figure in the unfolding drama of Oz. Reflecting on his experience working on Wicked, Bailey shared his excitement during an interview with PEOPLE, “Everyone who’s involved is a theatre nerd,” he said. “Me and Ari were very giggle-y that day, and to see Michelle Yeoh sing and be brilliant was amazing… It’s going to blow people’s minds.”
Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard
Veteran actor Jeff Goldblum, known for his roles in blockbuster franchises like Jurassic Park and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, steps into the role of the main antagonist, the Wizard. Goldblum’s Wizard is a smooth-talking manipulator who uses his charm to bend others to his will. Goldblum’s portrayal is expected to channel the same cunning and charisma he exhibited as the Grandmaster in Thor: Ragnarok, making the Wizard a formidable foe in the world of Oz.
Ethan Slater as Boq
Ethan Slater, primarily known for his theatre work, including his breakout role as SpongeBob SquarePants in The SpongeBob Musical, joins the cast as Boq. Boq, a kind-hearted Munchkin, is hopelessly smitten with Glinda, and his deep infatuation for her, along with the emotional struggles he endures during his time at Shiz University, are pivotal aspects of his character's journey. This role is Slater’s biggest screen project to date, and his transition from theatre to film is certainly one to watch.
Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible
Rounding out the cast is Michelle Yeoh, who recently won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in Everything Everywhere All at Once. In Wicked, Yeoh plays Madame Morrible, the headmistress of Shiz University and the press secretary to Oz. Morrible is a shrewd and corrupt figure who is quick to exploit Elphaba’s powers for her own gain. Yeoh’s performance is expected to bring a formidable presence to the character, making her one of the most influential and dangerous figures in the story.
Prepare to be spellbound when Wicked releases in cinemas on November 21.