The importance of Elphaba and Glinda’s casting was likely obvious long beforeWicked’sdevelopment.

Chu said, “If you had asked me early, I said we want to find unknowns.”

Though somewhat unconventional, this concept isn’t completely out of pocket.

Wicked - Poster

AlthoughChu clearly did not follow through with this idea, it definitely would have been an interesting move.

Unfortunately, this choice wouldn’t have been as useful forWickedfor one specific reason.

You need a professional."

Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Ariana Grande) looking up in Wicked

Ultimately, casting Broadway stars madeWickedso much better.

The movie would have been completely different.

Arguably,Wicked’scastshould be seen as a healthy step forward for Hollywood, especially in regard to movie musicals.

A cutout of Elphaba Thropp in Wicked (Cynthia Erivo) against a background that blends Willy Wonka in Wonka (Timothée Chalamet) & Giselle in Enchanted (Amy Adams) together.

Universal Pictures

Oftentimes, movie musicals cast A-list celebrities, whether they have the ability to sing or not.

Sometimes, this is successful, as inMamma Mia,but other movies likeLes Miserablessuffer for it.

Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba singing The Wizard and I in Wicked

Ariana Grande Butera as Glinda singing in Munchkinland in Wicked

Universal Pictures

Headshot Of Cynthia Erivo

Headshot Of Ariana Grande In The 2024 Met Gala

Movies

Wicked