Meet the Cast of ‘Wicked’: Elphaba, Galinda and the Wizard of Oz
The film adaptation of “Wicked” is making waves at the box office, captivating audiences as they journey through the enchanting Land of Oz.
This movie, directed by John M. Chu and inspired by the renowned Broadway musical and Gregory Maguire’s book, serves as a stunning prequel to “The Wizard of Oz.” It revolves around the friendship of Elphaba and Glinda, who first meet as students at Shiz University. Their adventures in Oz lead them to become Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West, as detailed in the film’s synopsis.
With a magical box office performance, the film has earned $114 million in the U.S. and Canada, and $50.2 million internationally, totaling $164.2 million. This marks the highest opening weekend for any Broadway musical film adaptation.
YSL News film critic Brian Truitt rated it ★★★ out of four, stating that “despite some flaws, it’s easy to get lost in director Jon M. Chu’s vibrant spectacle (rated PG).”
“The movie musical is both unnecessary and magnificent, casting a charming spell that anyone would find hard to resist. The character-driven tale about the Wicked Witch of the West’s backstory showcases stellar performances from Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande that will delight both theater lovers and longtime fans of “Oz,” Truitt added.
Here’s a glance at the main characters from Oz along with the actors portraying them.
Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba Thropp
Elphaba Thropp, with her unique green skin and uncontrollable powers, is the older daughter of the Munchkinland Governor. As the only green-skinned person in Oz, Elphaba faces discrimination, making her an outsider.
According to Universal Pictures, Elphaba is portrayed as “a young woman who is misunderstood because of her skin color and who has yet to uncover her true potential,” destined to become the Wicked Witch of the West. Beneath her tough exterior lies a kind and compassionate spirit.
Ariana Grande as Galinda Upland
Galinda Upland, or Glinda the Good, is characterized as a “popular young woman blessed with privilege who has yet to find her true heart.” Although she enjoys being the center of attention and loves her shoes, she yearns for something deeper: magical ability.
Michelle Yeoh as Madam Morrible
Madam Morrible serves as the “regal headmistress” of Shiz University and the Dean of Sorcery Studies. Highly respected, she is the first to recognize Elphaba’s remarkable potential.
Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard of Oz
While often referred to as “wonderful,” the Wizard of Oz is far from it.
Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero Tigelaar
The charming and carefree Fiyero is the Crown Prince of Winkie County, a region in Oz.
“Fiyero Tigelaar spends his time perfecting his image as a carefree individual, dedicated only to what amuses him at any moment,” reads his character biography.
Ethan Slater as Boq Woodsman
Boq is a kind-hearted Munchkin student at Shiz University who has feelings for Glinda, despite being pursued by Nessarose.
Marissa Bode as Nessarose Thropp
Nessarose is the younger daughter of Governor Thropp and Elphaba’s sister, for whom she is a loyal supporter. She harbors a crush on Boq, who is more interested in Glinda. Nessarose is depicted as “a heartbroken young woman seeking to take charge of her life.”
Peter Dinklage as the voice of Dr. Dillamond
Dr. Dillamond is a unique faculty member at Shiz University as he is the only animal on staff. He serves as Elphaba’s history professor and guide.