Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande are set to enchant audiences once more as they step back into the magical world of Oz with the anticipated film “Wicked: For Good.” This sequel holds the potential to make Oscar history, aiming to position Erivo and Grande as the seventh and eighth actors ever nominated twice for the same role. As this captivating narrative continues, the film’s prospects for critical acclaim remain high.
Variety has confirmed that Erivo and Grande will pursue Oscar nominations in the lead and supporting actress categories, respectively, for their roles in “Wicked: For Good.”
The Return to Oz
The Universal Pictures film, directed by Jon M. Chu and penned by Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox, picks up where the 2024 adaptation of “Wicked” left off. This sequel delves into the consequences of Elphaba’s and Glinda’s choices — one taking on the mantle of the Wicked Witch of the West, the other becoming Glinda the Good.
A Unique Oscar Opportunity
The possibility of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande being nominated again for their roles as Elphaba and Glinda sets the stage for a remarkable achievement. If successful, they would join the ranks of only six other actors in Oscar history who have been recognized twice for portraying the same character. Notables in this exclusive club include Bing Crosby, Peter O’Toole, Al Pacino, Paul Newman, Cate Blanchett, and Sylvester Stallone.
A Star-Studded Ensemble
Both Erivo and Grande head a talented cast, featuring Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Bowen Yang, Marissa Bode, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum, all reprising their roles. Except for Erivo, all ensemble members will be submitted in supporting categories, potentially strengthening the film’s Oscar chances even further.
Musical Magic and Awards Potential
The film promises to blend beloved songs from the stage with new original tracks, such as “No Place Like Home” by Erivo’s Elphaba and “The Girl in the Bubble” by Grande’s Glinda. These songs, composed by Stephen Schwartz and John Powell, are set to captivate audiences anew.
The first “Wicked” proved to be a formidable contender in the awards circuit, tying with “The Brutalist” for the second-highest number of Oscar nominations. Its triumphs included best costume design for Paul Tazewell and best production design for Nathan Crowley and Lee Sandales.
Produced by Marc Platt and David Stone, “Wicked: For Good” is set to hit theaters on November 21, promising to weave its spell over audiences and Oscar voters alike.
