New Wicked set photos reveal a stunningly clear first look at Ariana Grande in costume as Glinda. The popstar was first announced to be taking on the role opposite Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba in director Jon M. Chu's take on the renowned musical in November 2021. While Grande has given her large online following occasional glimpses into her preparation for Wicked, most of the details about how the magical and peculiar world of Oz will be realized on screen have been kept under wraps until recently.On the heels of the first officially released images from the upcoming Wicked movie – which show Grande and Erivo in costume as Glinda and Elphaba, respectively– new set photos give a much clearer and brighter look at Grande in costume. Take a look below (via @cravemedia_):
Donning a bright pink gown and ornate tiara atop her newly blonde locks, Grande's appearance as the iconic witch evokes memories of the classic Wizard of Oz movie from 1939.
Everything We Know About The Wicked Adaptation
Wicked was first announced by Universal in 2016, with Chu (In the Heights, Crazy Rich Asians) later set to direct. Alongside Erivo and Grande, who were the first actors attached to the project, Bridgerton star Jonathan Bailey will play Fiyero, the idealistic love interest of both Elphaba and Glinda. Rounding out the core cast, Michelle Yeoh and Jeff Goldblum later signed on to play Madame Morrible and The Wizard of Oz, respectively.
While Wicked was originally conceived as a single film, Chu announced last April that it would instead be split into two separate movies, set to be released a year apart. Though the announcement that the Wicked movie would be split into two parts was met with mixed reactions online, the decision does indicate the dedication of those involved in retaining all the elements that have made the original stage musical so beloved. Further supporting this is the involvement of many of the creative voices behind the original musical. Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman wrote the film's screenplay, and Marc Platt returns as a producer.
Schwartz previously shared that Wicked will feature new music, including three original songs for the film and one that was written for the original stage production but got cut. With the impressive cast and Chu's clear commitment to the integrity of the musical's innate magic, Grande's detailed look as Glinda seems to be only the first sign that the film adaptation of Wicked will live up to the musical's formidable legacy.
Source: @cravemedia_/Twitter