Everything You Need To Know About Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo's 'Wicked'

Anticipation is building as we approach the release of 'Wicked,' the movie that will finally bring one of the most beloved musicals of all time to the big screen.

Directed by Jon M. Chu, acclaimed for his work on 'Crazy Rich Asians' and 'In the Heights,' this cinematic adaptation has everyone buzzing, even though we've only seen glimpses so far. With a star-studded cast including Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, fans are eager to see this magical story come to life.

'Wicked' explores the lives of two young women at Shiz University in the land of Oz. Erivo plays Elphaba, a young woman with green skin struggling to find her place in a world that misunderstands her. Meanwhile, Grande's character, Glinda, is a popular and ambitious girl who has yet to find her true heart. As their paths cross, their friendship grows but also faces challenges, leading them to very different fates. The official trailer provides a breathtaking glimpse into the film's visual magic. With dazzling special effects and a soundtrack set to be unforgettable, the film is poised to make a lasting impact on the entertainment world. The trailer teases Erivo performing 'Defying Gravity,' while Grande dazzles with her rendition of 'Popular.'  

Besides Erivo and Grande, the film boasts an impressive cast. Oscar-winner Michelle Yeoh takes on the role of Madame Morrible, the university's strict headmistress. Jeff Goldblum will portray the legendary Wizard of Oz, while Jonathan Bailey plays Fiyero, a carefree prince with a crucial role in the story. The production journey has been long and exciting. Announced in 2016, 'Wicked' faced several delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, after many challenges and date changes, the first installment is set to premiere on November 22, 2024, with the second part following on November 26, 2025. What makes 'Wicked' so special is not only its memorable characters but also its captivating music. Stephen Schwartz's songs have resonated with audiences for years and have been integral to the musical's success on Broadway. The movie aims to capture that same magical essence while adding new dimensions to the story.

In recent interviews, both Erivo and Grande have shared their excitement about taking on these iconic roles. Erivo has noted how the project allows her to explore themes of friendship and self-discovery, while Grande expressed her gratitude for being part of something so meaningful, hoping fans will love this new version as much as they do the original musical.