Annaleigh Ashford, known for portraying Glinda in the Broadway production of ‘Wicked’, recently shared her joy at witnessing the widespread enjoyment of the beloved musical. Ashford, who embodied the role of Glinda from 2007 to 2008, expressed her delight in observing audiences embrace ‘Wicked’ during an exclusive interview with PEOPLE. Having also performed in ‘Wicked’ on its national tour and in Chicago, Ashford highlighted the musical’s enduring popularity, particularly accentuated by the recent movie adaptation featuring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo.
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The excitement surrounding ‘Wicked’ has soared in recent years, with the release of the movie version in 2024 and the upcoming premiere of ‘Wicked: For Good’ scheduled for November 21, 2025. Speaking about her experiences working on the Peacock series ‘Happy Face’, Ashford expressed her gratitude for witnessing not only industry insiders but also friends and family members discover and appreciate the magic of ‘Wicked’. She emphasised the show’s ability to resonate with audiences by tapping into themes of friendship, nostalgia, and the universal desire for belonging and connection.
Reflecting on the core message of ‘Wicked’, Ashford noted the significance of the profound friendship depicted between the two central female characters. She remarked on how the show’s narrative not only draws on the beloved story of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ but also underscores the importance of human connections and relationships. In her interview with PEOPLE, Ashford also highlighted the positive impact of ‘Wicked’ in introducing new audiences to the enchanting world of musical theatre, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the production across generations.
Ashford’s sentiments echo those of Kristin Chenoweth, the original Glinda on Broadway, who recently celebrated the musical’s 21st anniversary. The ongoing success and cultural significance of ‘Wicked’ continue to captivate both fans and performers alike, reaffirming its status as a timeless classic in the realm of musical theatre. As the musical landscape evolves, ‘Wicked’ remains a beacon of enchantment, enchanting audiences with its powerful storytelling and captivating performances.
Beyond her involvement in ‘Wicked’, Ashford also shared her excitement about starring in the new Peacock series ‘Happy Face’ alongside acclaimed actor Dennis Quaid. Describing Quaid as one of the industry’s finest, Ashford expressed her admiration for his talent and relished the opportunity to collaborate with him on the upcoming show. ‘Happy Face’ is set to premiere on Peacock on March 20, offering viewers a glimpse into Ashford’s versatile acting prowess and her ability to bring characters to life with depth and authenticity.
In closing, Ashford’s reflections on the enduring success of ‘Wicked’ serve as a testament to the musical’s timeless appeal and universal themes. As audiences around the world continue to be enchanted by the story of Glinda and Elphaba, the magic of ‘Wicked’ endures, resonating with new generations and captivating hearts with its enchanting tale of friendship, courage, and the transformative power of love.