Get ready to be whisked away to the enchanting land of Oz like never before! But here's where it gets exciting: Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, the dynamic duo behind the upcoming Wicked film series, are teaming up to host Wicked: One Wonderful Night, a two-hour TV extravaganza that promises to be nothing short of magical. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just a rehash of the musical; it’s a celebration packed with exclusive performances, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and sneak peeks that will leave fans buzzing.
Grande and Erivo, who captivated audiences in Wicked and its highly anticipated sequel Wicked: For Good (hitting theaters November 21), will be joined by an all-star cast including Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, Ethan Slater, Bowen Yang, and Marissa Bode. Together, they’ll perform beloved songs from both films, which draw inspiration from the iconic Broadway musical Wicked. This musical masterpiece, loosely based on Gregory Maguire’s bestselling novel, has become a cultural phenomenon, and this special is your ticket to experiencing it in a whole new way.
Here’s the controversial part: While die-hard fans of the original Broadway show might debate whether the film adaptations can truly capture the magic of the stage, this special boldly bridges the gap by showcasing live performances filmed in front of a thrilled audience at Los Angeles’ Dolby Theatre in September. It’s a unique blend of cinematic grandeur and theatrical intimacy that’s sure to spark conversations.
But that’s not all—Wicked: One Wonderful Night will also debut a world premiere clip from Wicked: For Good and offer a tantalizing sneak peek of its soundtrack. Fans can expect candid cast interviews, fun behind-the-scenes moments, and even appearances by director Jon M. Chu, composer Stephen Schwartz, and a few surprise guests. It’s a treasure trove for anyone who’s ever been spellbound by the story of Elphaba and Glinda.
So, when can you tune in? Mark your calendars for Thursday, November 6, at 8 p.m. ET, when the special airs on NBC. Can’t catch it live? No worries—it’ll be available to stream on Peacock starting November 7. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the world of Wicked, this is one night you won’t want to miss.
Now, here’s a thought-provoking question for you: With the film adaptations bringing Wicked to a global audience, do you think they’ll surpass the Broadway show in popularity, or will the stage version always hold a special place in your heart? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
