Wicked: For Good: Is a sequel in the works? Here’s what Universal Pictures said

For Good continues its strong theatrical run, conversations across Hollywood and Broadway circles are turning to a single question: Is the world of Oz heading towards another big-screen chapter? The second installment of the two-part cinematic adaptation of the hit musical has registered remarkable box-office numbers, fuelling curiosity about what comes next.

In just two weeks, Wicked: For Good has earned USD 269.4 million in North America and is edging close to USD 400 million globally. Its opening weekend, USD 147 million domestically, set a new record for the highest-ever debut for a Broadway musical adaptation, surpassing the benchmark set by the first Wicked film.

Against this backdrop, fans are now examining whether a sequel or an expansion of the franchise is being actively explored.

Wicked: For Good: Studio says, “Things Are Underway”

Universal Pictures, the studio backing the film, has indicated that a continuation of the universe is being considered. Michael Moses, the company’s chief marketing officer, told Vulture that given the film’s universal appeal and cultural influence, the team felt a “responsibility to figure out how we can continue in this universe.”

However, Moses noted that nothing is “figured out yet,” though he confirmed that preliminary discussions and early-stage ideas are in motion. This has been interpreted as an assurance that the studio is open to future instalments, even if not in the form of a direct sequel, as per a report by The Hollywood Reporter.

Wicked: For Good: Creators Hint at Future Possibilities

Composer-lyricist Stephen Schwartz, who created the original Broadway score and worked on the films’ music adaptation, has also acknowledged that there may be more storytelling space within Oz.

In an interview with The Ankler, Schwartz revealed that he and longtime collaborator Winnie Holzman were developing concepts “not quite a sequel to Wicked.” The duo believes Glinda and Elphaba’s story has been concluded—particularly after Wicked: For Good wrapped up Act II of the stage musical. But Schwartz pointed out that Gregory Maguire’s novels, which served as the source material, include several other narratives set in the same world, as per a report by The Hollywood Reporter.

Schwartz stressed that he would only consider a true sequel if a compelling creative justification existed. “No one has yet presented something valid enough beyond financial reasons,” he said.

Wicked: For Good: Adapting a Broadway Classic

Wicked: For Good is based on the second act of the 2003 Broadway phenomenon, which reimagines the untold story of the witches of Oz. Director Jon M. Chu shot both Wicked films back-to-back over 160 days, with only ten days left when production halted due to the 2023 industry strike. The remaining work was completed in early 2024.

Both films feature the same principal cast. The sequel added two new songs to the score—“No Place Like Home,” performed by Cynthia Erivo, and “The Girl in the Bubble,” sung by Ariana Grande, expanding the emotional landscape of the beloved narrative.

What a Potential Future Could Look Like

If a new project emerges, industry experts suggest it might explore other characters, regions, or historical episodes of Oz rather than follow Glinda and Elphaba further. With the franchise proving its global reach, Universal may choose to build an extended universe similar to other literary and musical adaptations.

For now, the studio and the creators are keeping details tightly guarded, but both sides acknowledge that the door remains open, a development that has fans eagerly awaiting official word.

FAQs

Is a sequel confirmed after Wicked: For Good?

No official sequel has been announced. However, Universal and the creators have confirmed that discussions and early ideas exploring the Oz universe are underway.

Will Glinda and Elphaba return in another film?

At present, creators believe their story is complete. Any future projects are more likely to focus on other characters or new storylines in Oz.