TV & Film
Congratulotions! Wicked Is Making History For Good! The movie that swept the world by storm and defied all expectations, Wicked, is now available on digital platforms. Yet, fans are still flocking to theaters, eagerly participating in the ongoing “Sing-Along with the Cast” event.
As a cultural juggernaut, Wicked has soared to a staggering $648,467,515 at the worldwide box office—and counting. This milestone officially crowns Wicked as the highest-grossing film with a predominantly LGBTQ+ leading cast. Moreover, with an estimated production budget of $150 million, it stands as one of the most expensive films with such groundbreaking representation.
Leading the charge is the immensely talented Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba Thropp. Erivo, an openly queer Black actor, is no stranger to the spotlight. She earned a Tony Award for her breathtaking portrayal of Celie in the Broadway revival of The Color Purple. That role also garnered her a Grammy for Best Musical Theatre Album and an Emmy for Outstanding Musical Performance in a Daytime Program, leaving her just one step away from achieving the coveted EGOT status.
Joining Erivo is Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero Tigelaar. Not only are Erivo and Bailey both openly queer actors, but they are portraying each other’s straight love interests—a dynamic that is almost unheard of in mainstream media. Bailey, an openly gay actor, has captivated audiences with his iconic roles in Bridgerton and Fellow Travellers.
Newcomer Marissa Bode also shines in her feature film debut as Nessarose Thropp, Elphaba’s sister. Rounding out the LGBTQ+ main cast is Bowen Yang, who brings humor and heart as Pfanne, Glinda Upland’s (played by Ariana Grande) best friend. Known for his sharp wit on Saturday Night Live and his standout role in Fire Island, Yang adds another layer of magic to the film.
The film’s visual splendor is elevated by the work of openly gay costume designer Paul Tazewell. Tazewell, an award-winning designer known for his work on Hamilton and The Wiz Live!, brings his unparalleled talent to Wicked, crafting costumes that are as enchanting as the story itself. His designs beautifully complement the vibrant world of Oz, further immersing audiences in the film’s magical atmosphere.
The enchantment of Wicked doesn’t stop with its cast. The film has shattered records, becoming the highest-grossing musical movie of all time. It also ranks as the 36th highest-grossing domestic box office film and the 6th highest-grossing film of 2024, according to Box Office Mojo.
The movie’s success isn’t limited to numbers; it has earned critical acclaim, boasting an “A” CinemaScore and sparking a global social media phenomenon. Fans worldwide are recreating Christopher Scott’s electrifying choreography from the iconic song “What Is This Feeling,” proving that Wicked has left an indelible mark on pop culture.
The triumph of Wicked extends beyond its box office success and cultural impact. It represents a monumental step forward for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media, demonstrating that stories with queer talent at the forefront can resonate universally.
By blending extraordinary performances, dazzling visuals, and a message of acceptance, Wicked has redefined what a blockbuster musical can be. As audiences continue to sing along, both in theaters and at home, the legacy of Wicked is set to soar higher than ever—just like Elphaba herself.
The journey continues with the highly anticipated sequel, Wicked: For Good, set to release in theaters on November 21, 2025.