On June 4, 2025, fans across the United States and Canada were treated to a special one-night-only theatrical re-release of Wicked, the acclaimed 2024 film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical. The event, held in over 100 theaters, was timed to coincide with the debut of the first official trailer for its highly anticipated sequel, Wicked: For Good, set to premiere on November 21, 2025 .
Directed by Jon M. Chu, Wicked stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda. The film garnered critical acclaim and commercial success upon its initial release in November 2024, grossing over $755 million worldwide and earning ten Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture. It won Oscars for Best Costume Design and Best Production Design, solidifying its place as the highest-grossing musical film adaptation of all time .
The June 4 screenings began simultaneously across North American time zones at 6:00 p.m. ET, allowing audiences to experience the film together. Following the feature presentation, attendees were given an exclusive first look at the Wicked: For Good trailer, which was also released online shortly thereafter .
The trailer offers a glimpse into the sequel’s narrative, which picks up years after the events of the first film. Elphaba, now branded the “Wicked Witch of the West,” is in hiding, while Glinda navigates her role as the public face of the Wizard’s regime. The story delves into themes of friendship, identity, and resistance, introducing new characters and deepening existing relationships .
Returning cast members include Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard, Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, Ethan Slater as Boq, and Marissa Bode as Nessarose. The sequel also introduces Dorothy Gale, portrayed by newcomer Alisha Weir, marking a significant expansion of the Oz universe within the film series .
Director Jon M. Chu and screenwriter Winnie Holzman made the decision to split the adaptation into two films to fully capture the depth and complexity of the original stage production. Composer Stephen Schwartz contributes new songs to the sequel, aiming to enhance the narrative and provide fresh musical experiences for audiences .
The one-night event also featured exclusive giveaways, including commemorative mini posters for attendees, and served as a celebration of the franchise’s enduring popularity. With the release of Wicked: For Good on the horizon, anticipation continues to build for the next chapter in this iconic tale .