The lives of the Wicked ensemble have undergone a transformative journey, forever altered for the better. Kicking off the highly anticipated Oscars 2025 ceremony, Glinda (portrayed by Ariana Grande) and Elphaba (brought to life by Cynthia Erivo) graced the stage with their captivating vocals. Grande's soulful rendition of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" set the tone, seamlessly transitioning into Erivo's powerhouse performance of "Home" from The Wiz. The two powerhouses then reunited to deliver a mesmerizing finale with "Defying Gravity," the climactic number from Wicked, with Erivo's soaring vocals and flawless execution earning her a thunderous ovation from the awestruck audience, including a spellbound Ariana Grande. The unforgettable performance garnered a standing ovation, leaving the crowd in awe.
Nominated in an impressive ten categories, the film took home two coveted awards, with Erivo and Grande both recognized in their respective fields. The legendary costume designer, Paul Tazewell, made history by securing the first Oscar for Best Costume Design for a Black designer. In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Tazewell exclaimed, "I am overflowing with pride. To everyone in the U.K. who contributed to this beauty, thank you. And to my Oz-ian muses, Cynthia and Ariana, my love for you knows no bounds. To the rest of the cast, thank you a million times for entrusting me with the task of bringing your characters to life. This achievement means the world to me."
The duo of Nathan Crowley and Lee Sandales also claimed victory in the Best Production Design category. For a comprehensive list of winners and a glimpse of the star-studded arrivals on the Oscars 2025 red carpet, click here.
Among the evening's unforgettable moments was Bowen Yang, a member of the Wicked cast, presenting the Best Costume Design award donned in his full Shiz University uniform. Furthermore, host Conan O'Brien added a touch of humor to the proceedings, quipping, "This film is the perfect companion for those who've ever finished watching The Wizard of Oz and pondered, 'Sure, but where did all those supporting characters attend college?' That's precisely the tale Wicked tells!"
Prior to the ceremony, Erivo teased the upcoming sequel, Wicked: For Good, to Jesse Palmer on the red carpet. She revealed, "Our protagonists must grapple with the ramifications of their choices, a journey filled with joy, heartbreak, and every conceivable emotion. Plus, there are some familiar tunes that you'll undoubtedly adore. I believe it will be truly exceptional." Mark your calendars for November, as Wicked: For Good prepares to enchant audiences worldwide.
