Movie fans have eagerly awaited news about the sequel to Universal’s blockbuster adaptation of Wicked, and this week, their hopes were fully realized when the official title for the upcoming film was revealed. The much-anticipated follow-up to the hit film will officially be titled Wicked: For Good, much to the delight of fans across the globe.
On Monday, Universal Pictures made the announcement, confirming what many had speculated since the release of Wicked: Part One on November 22, 2024. The new title pays homage to one of the musical's most beloved songs, “For Good,” which captures the essence of the friendship between the two lead characters, Elphaba and Glinda. This song is often cited as one of the most emotional moments within the story's second act.
The upcoming film is set to be released on November 21, 2025, marking just about exactly one year after the first installment. The announcement was made on the film's official Instagram account with the message: "You will be changed. Wicked: For Good, only in theaters November 21, 2025." This line echoes the power of the song it references and instances where both joy and heartbreak are intertwined.
Directed by Jon M. Chu, Wicked: For Good will see the return of Broadway heavyweights Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, reprising their roles as Glinda and Elphaba, respectively. Fans of the musical will be excited to know they can expect not only the emotional depth but also complex musical performances, especially from the duet “For Good.” This pivotal moment between Elphaba and Glinda reflects on the impacts of their friendship and the turmoil they face against the backdrop of the Wizard’s deception.
Since its release, Wicked: Part One has made staggering box office gains, crossing the $525 million mark globally. It has set records, becoming the highest-grossing film ever based on a Broadway musical at the domestic box office. It is also the second-highest adapting stage to screen musical after Mamma Mia! which has grossed $611 million globally. This success has heightened expectations for the sequel.
Jim Orr, president of domestic theatrical distribution for Universal Pictures, remarked, "The overwhelming response to Wicked has been remarkable. These sing-along screenings offer fans a unique opportunity to become part of the story they’ve embraced so enthusiastically. There’s something extraordinarily special about experiencing this beloved musical together as a community, and we’re thrilled to create opportunities this holiday season.” This sentiment underlines how Universal is engaging with their audience as they approach the sequel’s release.
Wicked’s narrative is adapted from Gregory Maguire's 1995 novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, exploring the complex relationship and backstory of the characters from Frank L. Baum’s The Wizard of Oz. The score was composed by Stephen Schwartz, whose music has left indelible marks since Wicked debuted on Broadway. Critics have praised the film for maintaining these emotional connections, seen most acutely through the interactions and growth between Erivo and Grande’s characters.
Fans have responded positively to the title change, which many believe transcends the typical franchise naming convention of “Part Two.” Initial reactions on social media reflected this enthusiasm and nostalgia, with comments filtering through various platforms ranging from sheer excitement to emotional tributes to the original musical’s iconic moments. An array of ardent supporters across social media chimed in to express their excitement over the title announcement, with comments reflecting their anticipation for how the sequel will honor and expand on the original story.
The lasting impact of Wicked on both the stage and screen is undeniable. It holds nostalgic value for longtime fans of the musical as well as attracting new audiences who are experiencing its magic for the first time through the film adaptations. Wicked: Part One not only achieved commercial success but also earned accolades, including Golden Globe nominations for its leading ladies. With the significant achievements of the first film, anticipation is skyrocketing for the second installment.
Coupled with the nostalgic elements, Wicked: For Good is expected to be another potential player at the 2025 Oscars, with predictions for categories including Best Picture, Best Actress for Erivo, and Best Supporting Actress for Grande. The unique music and storytelling embodied within Wicked make it likely to garner significant acclaim from both audiences and critics alike.
With just under two years until the release, fans are already speculating about how Cham will build on the powerful narrative arcs established previously and how the emotional burden of the song "For Good" will be translated to the screen. Will the spirit of friendship, sacrifice, and personal growth shine through the storytelling as they did on stage?
While the world waits with bated breath for what promises to be another mega hit, Universal is capitalizing on the original’s success with additional screenings of Wicked, including sing-along versions this coming Christmas. This continual engagement with the material hints at the studio’s confidence not only in the original but also as they turn the corner toward Wicked: For Good.
Clearly, Wicked: For Good is shaping up to become yet another musical phenomenon, and as fans ready themselves for the awaited finale of this two-part interpretation, the excitement around its release date continues to grow.
