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Wicked: The Stars Who Almost Made It to Oz

USAMonday, November 24, 2025
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The journey to cast the magical world of Wicked has been quite the rollercoaster. Many big names have tried out for roles, but only a few made the cut. Let's dive into some of the stars who came close but didn't quite make it to the Emerald City.

The Contenders

  • Lady Gaga
  • Role: Elphaba
  • Details: In talks for a 2016 version of the film. The project fell through due to scheduling issues.

  • Shawn Mendes
  • Role: Fiyero
  • Details: Considered for the role, but it wasn't meant to be.

  • Amanda Seyfried
  • Role: Glinda
  • Details: Auditioned while filming The Dropout. Still dreams about auditioning for Wicked.

  • Dove Cameron
  • Role: Unspecified (called Glinda the "role of a lifetime")
  • Details: Went through a lengthy audition process.

  • Cristin Milioti
  • Role: Elphaba
  • Details: Spent two weeks preparing for her audition. The role left a lasting impression.

  • Phylicia Pearl Mpasi
  • Role: Unspecified
  • Details: Shared her emotional journey on YouTube, hoping the film will make young Black women feel seen.

  • Nick Jonas and Joe Jonas
  • Role: Fiyero
  • Details: Both auditioned for the same role. Nick revealed Joe encouraged him to "kill it" during his audition.

  • Renée Rapp
  • Role: Glinda
  • Details: Excited about Ariana Grande's casting, showing camaraderie among actors.

  • Ryan McCartan
  • Role: Fiyero
  • Details: Previously played Fiyero on Broadway. Joked about not holding any hard feelings.

  • Spencer Sutherland
  • Role: Fiyero
  • Details: Got a "double callback" for the role.

  • Taylor Louderman
  • Role: Unspecified
  • Details: Shared her feelings on Instagram, admitting she cared too much about the role.

  • Ariana Grande
  • Roles: Glinda and Elphaba
  • Details: Cast as Glinda but also auditioned for Elphaba. Knew she was a better fit for Glinda.

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