Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande to Star in Wicked Film Adaptation

The pair teased the news on social media, and director Jon M. Chu confirmed it.

November 4, 2021

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo will be flying to Oz as Galinda and Elphaba in the film adaptation of Wicked. The pair announced their casting in dual posts on social media, as did director Jon M. Chu.

Goooood Newwwws!!! The incredible #CynthiaErivo and @ArianaGrande will be our Elphaba and Galinda in @WickedMovie @UniversalPics Get ready for a match up like you've never seen!!! In pink and green!!! pic.twitter.com/t1eH82mCe7

— Jon M. Chu (@jonmchu) November 5, 2021

Wicked writers Winnie Holzman (book) and Stephen Schwartz (score) are collaborating on the screenplay. The 18-year-old musical is based on Gregory Maguire's bestselling novel of the same name. Universal Pictures will release the film, though a timeline has never officially been confirmed. Shooting, however, is expected to start in 2022.