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The Two Witches: Who Plays Elphaba In The Groundbreaking 'Wicked' Movie And On Broadway Now?

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The question of "who plays Elphaba" has never been more relevant, as the world of Oz is currently undergoing a massive, dual transformation, both on the silver screen and on the iconic Broadway stage. As of December 22, 2025, the role of Elphaba Thropp—the misunderstood, gravity-defying protagonist—is being embodied by two groundbreaking actresses whose casting marks a new era for the beloved musical.

The most anticipated answer lies with the upcoming two-part film adaptation, where the immensely talented Cynthia Erivo will bring the Wicked Witch of the West to life. Simultaneously, on Broadway, the torch has been passed to Lencia Kebede, who is making history as the production’s first Black principal Elphaba, a monumental milestone that continues the show's legacy of powerful, diverse casting.

Cynthia Erivo: The Defying Gravity Star of the 'Wicked' Film Adaptation

Cynthia Erivo’s casting as Elphaba in the Universal Pictures film adaptation, *Wicked Part One* (scheduled for release on November 22, 2024), has cemented her status as one of the most exciting performers of her generation. Her powerhouse vocals and dramatic depth promise a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.

Cynthia Erivo: Biography and Career Profile

  • Full Name: Cynthia Onyedinmanasu Chinasaokwu Erivo
  • Born: January 8, 1987, in London, England
  • Nationality: British
  • Parents: Nigerian heritage
  • Education: Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA)
  • Career Milestones: Erivo is a Tony, Grammy, and Emmy Award winner, and has been nominated for two Academy Awards, putting her one Oscar win away from achieving EGOT status.
  • Notable Roles: Celie in *The Color Purple* (Broadway, Tony Award), Harriet Tubman in *Harriet* (Academy Award Nomination), Holly Gibney in *The Outsider* (TV).
  • Wicked Film Role: Elphaba Thropp (The Wicked Witch of the West)

The Intense Preparation for the Emerald City

Taking on the role first immortalized by Idina Menzel is a massive undertaking, and Erivo's preparation was nothing short of rigorous. The actress, known for her commitment to her roles, underwent extensive physical and vocal training to master the demands of the film.

Erivo has spoken about the sheer physicality required, which included intensive flying and stunt training to ensure she could perform Elphaba's iconic moments, particularly the show-stopping number "Defying Gravity," while suspended high in the air. The film, directed by Jon M. Chu, will be split into two parts, with the second installment, *Wicked: For Good*, set for release in 2025, allowing the complex narrative based on Gregory Maguire’s novel to be told in full.

Erivo stars opposite pop superstar Ariana Grande as Glinda Upland, a pairing that has generated immense buzz among fans of the musical. The rest of the star-studded cast includes Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, and Jeff Goldblum as The Wizard of Oz, promising a visual and vocal spectacle.

Lencia Kebede: Broadway's New History-Making Elphaba

While the world awaits the cinematic version, the live stage production of *Wicked* continues its legendary run at the Gershwin Theatre on Broadway. The newest actress to don the green makeup and pointy hat is Lencia Kebede, whose debut is a significant moment in the musical's two-decade history.

Lencia Kebede: The First Black Principal Elphaba

Lencia Kebede officially took over the role of Elphaba on March 4, 2025, marking her as the first Black actress to assume the role of Elphaba full-time on Broadway. This milestone is a powerful step forward for representation on Broadway, following in the footsteps of many talented performers who have played the role, including the previous principal, Mary Kate Morrissey.

Kebede, an Ethiopian-American actress, previously garnered acclaim for her work as Angelica Schuyler in the National Tour of *Hamilton*, demonstrating her powerful stage presence and vocal prowess. Her performance of Elphaba, the "unpopular" girl sent to Shiz University, promises to bring a fresh perspective to the character's journey from outcast to the Wicked Witch of the West.

Kebede is joined by a revitalized Broadway cast, including Allie Trimm as Glinda, NaTasha Yvette Williams as Madame Morrible, Brad Oscar as The Wizard, and Jordan Litz as Fiyero. This new company ensures that the live experience of *Wicked* remains as vibrant and relevant as ever, continuing to tell the untold story of the Witches of Oz.

The Legacy of Elphaba Thropp and Topical Authority

The character of Elphaba Thropp, whose name is a clever nod to *The Wonderful Wizard of Oz* author L. Frank Baum (L.F.B.), is one of the most complex and beloved in modern musical theater. The role demands an extraordinary vocal range and a deep understanding of the themes of prejudice, friendship, and political corruption.

The simultaneous prominence of Cynthia Erivo and Lencia Kebede highlights the show's enduring topical authority. Both actresses, through their respective platforms, are bringing new life to a story that explores what it means to be different and how history is written by the powerful—a narrative that resonates deeply with contemporary audiences. The story, which also features key characters like Doctor Dillamond and Elphaba’s sister Nessarose, explores the socio-political landscape of Oz before Dorothy's arrival.

Whether you are preparing for the highly anticipated cinematic event with Cynthia Erivo's stunning portrayal or planning a trip to the Gershwin Theatre to witness Lencia Kebede's historic, full-time debut, the magic of *Wicked* is clearly in good hands. The greenification of Hollywood and Broadway is a powerful testament to the show's message: everyone deserves a chance to fly.

The Two Witches: Who Plays Elphaba in the Groundbreaking 'Wicked' Movie and On Broadway Now?
who plays elphaba in wicked
who plays elphaba in wicked

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