Wicked starring Ariana Grande gets new release date, to premiere five days early

Universal’s highly anticipated film Wicked, starring Ariana Grande, is now set to premiere in cinemas five days sooner than planned. Originally scheduled for release on November 27, the movie will now hit theaters globally on November 22. This new release date puts Wicked in direct competition with Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II, also set for release on the same day.

Avoiding a clash with Moana 2

The decision to move up the release date was influenced by the initial clash with Disney’s Moana 2. Fans who were excited for the potential showdown between Wicked and Moana 2 will now have to wait for a different match-up. Instead, Wicked will be released just before Thanksgiving, targeting audiences during the holiday season without competing directly with the animated sequel.

A star-studded cast

Wicked is adapted from the beloved Broadway production that serves as a prequel to the timeless The Wizard of Oz. The film features an impressive cast with Cynthia Erivo playing Elphaba, the iconic Wicked Witch of the West, and Ariana Grande as Glinda, the Good Witch. Other notable cast members include Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, Ethan Slater as Boq, and Bowen Yang as Pfannee.

Grande's role as Glinda

Ariana Grande’s performance as Glinda is highly anticipated, given her astonishing vocal ability and acting skills. Grande is expected to bring a new dimension to the character, making the role even more captivating for audiences. Her involvement adds significant star power to the film, increasing its appeal to a wide range of moviegoers.

Direction and future release

Directed by Jon M. Chu, known for Crazy Rich Asians, Wicked is the first part of a two-part adaptation. The second part of Wicked is scheduled for release on November 26, 2025. This staggered release strategy allows the story to unfold over time, keeping audiences engaged and eager for more.

With its early release and strong cast, Wicked is poised to be a major box office contender, creating excitement among fans of the original musical and new viewers alike.

Also Read: Ariana Grande shares a laugh with Wicked co-star Jonathan Bailey in the leaked photos from the sets