The Emerald City Bids Farewell: Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivo Wrap Up Their Wicked Journeys

Oh, what a journey it’s been for fans of the Yellow Brick Road and beyond! It feels like we've been waiting for this moment forever, and now, the principal photography for Universal’s epic two-part film adaptation of Wicked has finally wrapped. And, as you might expect, the stars at the heart of it all, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, took to social media to share some truly emotional goodbyes to their iconic characters, Glinda and Elphaba, and the magical world they’ve inhabited for so long.

Ariana Grande, stepping into Glinda's sparkling shoes, penned a heartfelt message that really tugged at the heartstrings. She reflected on how much the role, and Glinda herself, had changed her, hinting at a profound personal and professional transformation. It’s not just about playing a character; for Grande, it was clearly an immersive experience that reshaped her artistic soul, leaving her forever grateful for the lessons learned and the friendships forged on set. You could just feel the weight of the moment in her words, a true culmination of immense dedication.

Meanwhile, the phenomenal Cynthia Erivo, who embodies the misunderstood Elphaba, shared her own powerful sentiments. Her post was a beautiful testament to the sisterhood she formed with Grande and the incredible journey of bringing such a complex, green-hued character to life. She spoke of the profound transformation Elphaba undergoes, mirroring perhaps her own intense dedication to the role. It’s clear this wasn’t just a job for these two; it was a passion project, a labor of love that demanded every ounce of their talent and commitment.

Director Jon M. Chu has truly had his work cut out for him, orchestrating this massive production that promises to be a visual and emotional feast. Filming Wicked parts one and two back-to-back is no small feat, a testament to the grand scale and ambition behind bringing this beloved Broadway phenomenon to the big screen. The anticipation for these films has been absolutely palpable, with every little glimpse and update fueling fan excitement to a fever pitch. We’ve all been holding our breath, haven’t we?

So, while we're sad to see their time in Oz conclude, we now have the incredible joy of looking forward to experiencing their magic firsthand. Wicked Part One is set to enchant audiences on November 27, 2024, followed by Wicked Part Two on November 26, 2025. These aren't just movie release dates; they're dates circled on calendars, moments we're eagerly anticipating to witness Grande and Erivo's definitive performances as these iconic witches. It’s going to be absolutely spectacular, mark my words.