The highly anticipated musical film adaptation Wicked: Part 1 will be arriving in theaters sooner than expected. On Monday, director Jon M. Chu and Universal Pictures revealed that the film’s release date has been moved up by five days. It is now set to hit the big screen on November 22, 2024.
A Surprise Announcement
Director Jon M. Chu took to X to share the exciting news, writing, “5. DAYS. EARLIER!!!! Let’s goooo!!” The announcement brought joy to fans eagerly awaiting the film. The stars of “Wicked,” Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, who portray Elphaba and Glinda, respectively, also celebrated the announcement by sharing the news on their Instagram stories.
Release Date Changes Over Time
This isn’t the first time “Wicked: Part 1” has seen a change in its release date. Initially slated for a December 2024 release, the date was first adjusted in April 2022. Subsequently, in March 2023, the film’s release was rescheduled to November 27, 2024. The latest shift moves the premiere to November 22, 2024, setting it up for a highly competitive holiday season.
Competing with Big Titles
Originally, “Wicked: Part 1” was set to open on the same day as Disney’s “Moana 2.” With the new release date, it will debut alongside Ridley Scott’s highly anticipated “Gladiator II.” This strategic move aims to capture a larger audience over the Thanksgiving weekend.
Star-Studded Cast
“Wicked: Part 1” boasts an impressive cast, including Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, Ethan Slater as Boq, Marissa Bode as Nessarose, and Jeff Goldblum as the Wizard of Oz. The ensemble cast and the beloved storyline promise a magical cinematic experience.
Looking Ahead to Part Two
Fans can also look forward to “Wicked: Part Two,” which will hit theaters on November 26, 2025. The two-part adaptation is set to bring the enchanting world of Oz to life in a way that fans of the original musical and new audiences alike will cherish.
The excitement surrounding “Wicked: Part 1” continues to build with its new, earlier release date. As fans eagerly await November 22, 2024, the film’s stellar cast and engaging story promise an unforgettable journey into the magical world of Oz.
