As Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel take a step back from Wicked: For Good, longtime fans may feel a twinge of disappointment; however, these Broadway icons are at peace with their decision. Having brought Glinda and Elphaba to life on stage in 2003, both actresses believe it's time for the new cast to shine, especially Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, who lead the film as the iconic duo.
During an interview with Extra in June, Chenoweth expressed her full support for the film stars taking center stage this time. "Idina and I feel really good about it. It's their time," she said, adding that they felt honored to be included in the previous film but felt it was now the right moment to step aside. "We had our moment...but it's their turn," she shared, reflecting warmly on the passing of the torch.
Echoing this sentiment while speaking with The Hollywood Reporter, Chenoweth stated, "I think we kind of did our thing and passed the broom and wand, so to speak. But I can't wait to see it." Chenoweth mentioned that her close friendship with Grande only adds to her excitement about the new film.
Both Chenoweth and Menzel made cameo appearances in part one of the Wizard of Oz prequel, where they appeared as members of the Wizomania Choir during the Emerald City sequence featuring One Short Day. Ariana Grande later told PEOPLE that working with the women who inspired her for years was "such a surreal honor," describing the experience as unforgettable and almost unreal as they collaborated on small moments together on set.
Director Jon M. Chu ensured their brief appearance in the first film paid proper tribute to their legacy, previously telling CinemaBlend that if they were going to be in the movie at all, they had to sing. As he put it, fans would expect nothing less. This time around, though, the original Glinda and Elphaba are simply cheering from the sidelines, happily handing over the wand and the broom to the next generation.
