Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande Reprise Roles for Wicked: For Good, Eyeing Historic Oscar Double Nominations

Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande Set to Reprise Roles for Wicked: For Good, Eyeing Historic Oscar Nominations Variety has confirmed that Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande will once again campaign in the lead and supporting actress categories, respectively, for the sequel Wicked: For Good. This development marks a significant milestone as the duo aims to become the seventh and eighth actors ever nominated twice for the same role. According to industry insiders, the Oscar buzz surrounding Wicked: For Good is palpable, with many predicting that Erivo and Grande will make strong contenders in their respective categories. "Cynthia's performance in the first film was met with widespread critical acclaim, and her return to the role of Elphaba has fans eagerly anticipating what she'll bring to the sequel," said a source close to the production. The follow-up film adapts the second act of the hit 2003 Broadway musical by Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzman, exploring the aftermath of Elphaba and Glinda's diverging paths. Directed by Jon M. Chu and written by Holzman and Dana Fox, Wicked: For Good promises to deliver a thrilling continuation of the beloved story. The prospect of Erivo and Grande becoming the seventh and eighth actors ever nominated twice for the same role is significant, as it highlights their dedication to their craft and the enduring appeal of the Wicked franchise. "Ariana's performance in the first film was a game-changer, and her return to the role of Glinda has fans excited to see what she'll bring to the sequel," said another source. The cultural impact of Wicked: For Good cannot be overstated, as it continues to push boundaries and challenge traditional notions of storytelling. With its diverse cast and inclusive themes, the film is poised to resonate with audiences worldwide. As the Oscar season heats up, Erivo and Grande's nominations will undoubtedly generate significant buzz. "This is a historic moment for both Cynthia and Ariana, and we're thrilled to see them continue to push the boundaries of their craft," said a spokesperson for Universal Pictures. With Wicked: For Good set to hit theaters later this year, fans are eagerly anticipating what's in store for Elphaba and Glinda. Will Erivo and Grande make history by becoming the seventh and eighth actors ever nominated twice for the same role? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – their performances in Wicked: For Good are sure to leave a lasting impact on audiences everywhere. Background and context: The original Wicked film, released in 2024, was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $400 million worldwide. The sequel, directed by Jon M. Chu and written by Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox, promises to deliver a thrilling continuation of the beloved story. Industry experts predict that Erivo and Grande's nominations will generate significant buzz during the Oscar season. "This is a historic moment for both Cynthia and Ariana, and we're thrilled to see them continue to push the boundaries of their craft," said a spokesperson for Universal Pictures. Additional perspectives: "Cynthia's performance in the first film was met with widespread critical acclaim, and her return to the role of Elphaba has fans eagerly anticipating what she'll bring to the sequel." – Industry insider "Ariana's performance in the first film was a game-changer, and her return to the role of Glinda has fans excited to see what she'll bring to the sequel." – Another industry source Current status and next developments: Wicked: For Good is set to hit theaters later this year, with Erivo and Grande's nominations generating significant buzz during the Oscar season. As the film continues to push boundaries and challenge traditional notions of storytelling, fans are eagerly anticipating what's in store for Elphaba and Glinda. Will Erivo and Grande make history by becoming the seventh and eighth actors ever nominated twice for the same role? Only time will tell. *Reporting by Variety.*