NashvilleGab - Wicked Almost Starred Pop Icons Before Grande and Erivo

When it comes to musicals that capture hearts and redefine cinema, the film adaptation of Wicked is already proving to be a phenomenon. With Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, fans and critics alike are singing its praises.

However, the journey to bring this Wizard of Oz prequel to life was far from straightforward. In an alternate universe, the cast looked remarkably different, featuring none other than Lady Gaga and Shawn Mendes in starring roles.

The film, directed by Jon M. Chu, comes with a rich backstory, not only in its themes but also in its casting history. Originally helmed by Stephen Daldry, known for Billy Elliot and The Crown, Wicked was set to feature Gaga as the misunderstood Elphaba and Mendes as the dashing Fiyero.

But when Daldry exited the project due to scheduling conflicts, a new director meant a fresh vision—and an entirely new cast. Here’s a closer look at how this iconic musical came to life and what makes Grande and Erivo’s performances so unforgettable.

From Gaga and Mendes to Grande and Erivo

Stephen Daldry’s Original Vision

Before Jon M. Chu stepped in as director, Stephen Daldry had a bold vision for Wicked.

According to insiders, Lady Gaga was essentially cast as Elphaba, the green-skinned outcast who later becomes the Wicked Witch of the West.

Gaga reportedly met with the production team several times to explore the character and how she could bring her unique spin to the role. Meanwhile, Shawn Mendes, though not officially confirmed, was rumored to be in discussions for the role of Fiyero, the charming love interest.

However, these plans never came to fruition. In 2020, Daldry left the project, citing scheduling conflicts and his vision for Wicked was shelved. Enter Jon M. Chu, the creative mind behind Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, who brought his own fresh perspective to the film.

Jon M. Chu’s Cast: Chemistry Without a Test

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo Steal the Show

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Jon M. Chu’s approach to casting was anything but conventional.

Despite the importance of chemistry between the two leading roles, Grande and Erivo never had a formal chemistry read. Chu trusted his instincts, believing that each actress was perfect for their respective parts.

“They read with different people, but at the end of the day, it was obvious that she was Elphaba and she was Glinda,” Chu said in an interview.

Their first meeting happened just hours before the casting announcement, at Chu’s home.

During that magical moment, Stephen Schwartz, the composer and lyricist of Wicked, played “For Good” on the piano, and Grande and Erivo sang together for the first time. Their voices blended seamlessly, affirming Chu’s gamble.

Building a Bond Offscreen

Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande — *Credit: Instagram/arianagrande*

What followed was a friendship as powerful as the story they were telling. Erivo and Grande spent their days off shopping, hanging out at each other’s homes, and even getting matching tattoos.

Erivo shared in an interview, “I’ve gained a sister,” while Grande echoed similar sentiments, saying, “I felt held and like I had a friend every step of the way.”

The Magic of Wicked: From Broadway to the Big Screen

A Story That Resonates

Wicked first premiered on Broadway in 2003, based on Gregory Maguire’s novel.

The musical explores the untold story of Elphaba and Glinda, from their days as students at Shiz University to their transformation into the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch.

Its themes of identity, acceptance, and friendship have touched millions, earning it 10 Tony Award nominations, including Best Musical.

For Erivo, the story felt personal. She recalled discovering the Wicked libretto in drama school and singing it endlessly, resonating with Elphaba’s journey of feeling like an outsider.

Grande, on the other hand, described seeing the original Broadway cast as a life-changing moment, saying, “I knew my life in two chapters: before seeing Wicked and after seeing Wicked.”

Lady Gaga’s and Shawn Mendes’ What-If Moments

Gaga’s Hollywood Evolution

While Gaga didn’t end up donning Elphaba’s iconic green makeup, her acting career has flourished.

With acclaimed performances in A Star is Born and the Joker sequel alongside Joaquin Phoenix, it’s clear she’s more than capable of taking on complex roles.

Shawn Mendes: Acting on Hold

Mendes, however, has yet to fully dive into acting. Despite early buzz about his involvement in Wicked, he remains focused on his music career.

Fans, however, are eager to see him take on a film role in the future, with many speculating he could excel in musicals or romantic dramas.

Ariana and Cynthia’s Electric Performances

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Early Rave Reviews

The decision to cast Grande and Erivo is already paying off. Critics have lauded their performances, calling them “pitch-perfect” and “sensational.”

Grande’s Glinda has been described as the role she was “born to play,” while Erivo’s “heavenly vocals” have left audiences spellbound.

Director Jon M. Chu’s Touch

The cast and crew credit Chu’s passion and leadership for creating a warm, collaborative environment on set. “Jon treats everyone like they’re top billing,” Grande said.

Erivo added, “His excitement is infectious. He made this the most magical experience.”

What’s Next for Wicked?

A Two-Part Cinematic Event

The film adaptation of Wicked will be released in two parts, with the first half hitting theaters this weekend.

Fans can look forward to a star-studded cast, including Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, and Bowen Yang.

Wicked vs. Gladiator II

Metric	Wicked	Gladiator II
Opening Weekend Box Office (U.S.)	$114 million	$55.5 million
Worldwide Box Office Total	$164 million (after opening weekend)	$221 million (after two weeks)
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score	97%	84%
Rotten Tomatoes Critics Score	90%	72%
CinemaScore	A	B
Social Media Impressions (Before Release)	960 million	~320 million
Universal Appeal	High: Appeals to families, children, and nostalgic fans	Limited: Appeals to older audiences and original film fans
Marketing Events	Themed events like dress-up and sing-alongs	None reported
Easter Eggs/Nostalgia	Numerous references to The Wizard of Oz	Limited connections to the original Gladiator
Target Audience	Broad: Families, younger audiences, and musical lovers	Narrow: Fans of the original and mature audiences
Rating	PG	R (restricting younger audiences)
Cultural Impact	Compared to Barbie, emphasizing feminine themes	Relies on the existing fanbase

This table highlights how Wicked outperformed Gladiator II in several metrics

Part Two Teasers

While details about Part Two are under wraps, both Grande and Erivo hinted at exciting moments to come, promising that the second half will be worth the wait.

Wicked has already left an indelible mark on the hearts of its cast, crew, and audiences. From its near-casting of Gaga and Mendes to the undeniable chemistry between Grande and Erivo, the film is shaping up to be an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Wicked soars into theaters on November 22, ready to enchant a whole new generation. Don’t miss this magical journey!

The video shows the trailer of the film, Wicked

Conclusion

Lady Gaga and Shawn Mendes were originally considered for Elphaba and Fiyero under director Stephen Daldry’s vision.
Jon M. Chu replaced Daldry in 2020, reimagining the cast with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo.
Grande and Erivo formed a deep offscreen friendship that enhanced their on-screen bond.
Early reviews praise Grande and Erivo as “sensational” in their roles.
The first part of Wicked is already earning rave reviews, with Part Two eagerly anticipated.

Wicked Almost Starred Pop Icons Before Grande and Erivo