Wicked: The Stars Who Almost Made It to Oz
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.