See the “Wicked: For Good” Cast Side-by-Side with the Original“ Wizard of Oz” Characters They Play

Cast of ‘Wicked: For Good’ Compared to ‘Wizard of Oz’ Characters

A recent adaptation of the classic film “The Wizard of Oz” has delighted fans with a contemporary twist. The 2025 movie, “Wicked: For Good,” serves as a prequel to the original story, revealing the backstory of well-known characters and their connection to the iconic world of Oz. Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film breathes new life into the beloved tale, bringing back familiar faces such as Dorothy Gale, the Lion, the Tin Man, and the Scarecrow.

While the original “The Wizard of Oz” premiered in 1939 and featured stars like Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale, over eight decades later, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande stepped into the roles of the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good, respectively. This modern take on the characters provides a deeper exploration of their origins and motivations, adding layers to their identities.

The 2025 release of “Wicked: For Good” has garnered significant attention for the portrayal of these timeless characters. For instance, Ariana Grande’s interpretation of Glinda goes beyond the character’s traditional bubbly persona, exploring themes of love and forgiveness. Grande’s performance has been praised for adding a fresh perspective to the role and injecting new energy into the narrative.

Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of the Wicked Witch of the West offers a nuanced look at the character’s evolution from the Broadway stage to the silver screen. Drawing on her previous experiences in roles like Elphaba, Erivo infuses the character with depth and emotion, uncovering the vulnerable side of one of cinema’s most iconic villains. Her performance has been applauded for humanizing a traditionally menacing figure.

The character of Dorothy Gale, famously played by Judy Garland, also makes an appearance in “Wicked: For Good.” Portrayed by Bethany Weaver in the 2025 adaptation, Dorothy’s role is symbolic and silent, yet impactful. Weaver’s portrayal captures the essence of the character’s journey and the legacy she embodies, paying homage to the actresses who have come before her.

Colman Domingo takes on the role of the Cowardly Lion, originally brought to life by Bert Lahr in the 1939 film. Domingo’s interpretation delves into the Lion’s backstory, revealing his complex relationship with Elphaba and the impact of their interactions on his identity. The actor’s performance adds depth to a beloved character, exploring themes of confidence and courage.

Jonathan Bailey steps into the shoes of the Scarecrow, a character made memorable by Ray Bolger in the original film. Bailey’s portrayal captures the essence of the Scarecrow’s journey and transformation, showcasing the character’s evolution from a smooth operator to a straw-filled companion. His performance in “Wicked: For Good” offers a fresh take on a classic role, blending tradition with innovation.

Ethan Slater takes on the role of the Tin Man, originally portrayed by Jack Haley in the 1939 movie. Despite the character’s lack of a heart, Slater infuses the Tin Man with emotion and vulnerability, exploring the emotional depth of his story. Slater’s performance highlights the character’s journey and transformation, shedding new light on a fan-favorite role.

In conclusion, the cast of “Wicked: For Good” has breathed new life into the timeless characters of “The Wizard of Oz,” offering a contemporary perspective on their stories. Through nuanced performances and fresh interpretations, the film has captivated audiences and reimagined the beloved tale for a new generation. With a blend of tradition and innovation, “Wicked: For Good” stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Oz and its iconic characters.