Cynthia Erivo Co-Writes Original Song for Wicked: For Good

Anticipation continues to build for the second part of the Wicked film adaptation, Wicked: For Good, set to arrive in theaters on November 21, 2025. Among the most exciting revelations about the project is the announcement that Cynthia Erivo, who stars as Elphaba, collaborated with Wicked composer Stephen Schwartz to create an original song for the film.

‘I collaborated on one of the new songs, and it’s so special to me,’ Erivo shared with Variety. ‘When we filmed it, the entire crew was in tears. I hope audiences are ready—it’s a song that speaks to the heart of who Elphaba is.’ The song is one of several new additions to the score, expanding on Schwartz’s beloved compositions from the original Broadway production, which debuted in 2003. Director Jon M. Chu has promised the new music will add depth and emotional resonance to the already iconic story.

In addition to her work on the film, Erivo is preparing to release her debut solo album ahead of Wicked: For Good. The Tony-winning star of The Color Purple described the album as “eclectic, blending soul, country, and pop.” She emphasized her vocal work as central to the project, saying, ‘My voice is the backbone—I’ve even used it as an instrument for layering sounds. It’s an extension of me and a reflection of all the influences that have shaped my life.’

The film boasts an all-star cast, including Grammy winner Ariana Grande as Glinda, Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, Ethan Slater as Boq, Peter Dinklage as Dr. Dillamond, Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible, and Jeff Goldblum as The Wizard. In a groundbreaking casting choice, Marissa Bode will play Nessarose, marking the first time a wheelchair-using actor has portrayed the role. The ensemble also features Keala Settle, Colin Michael Carmichael, Bowen Yang, Bronwyn James, and Aaron Teoh, bringing to life both beloved and expanded characters from the Wicked universe.

Wicked: For Good is the second half of the two-part film adaptation, based on Gregory Maguire’s novel that reimagines The Wizard of Oz from the witches’ perspective. The screenplay, penned by original Wicked book writer Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox, brings new layers to the narrative, exploring the bond between Elphaba and Glinda. The film’s visual magic is being crafted by Tony-winning costume designer Paul Tazewell, promising a vibrant and immersive depiction of the land of Oz.

The original Wicked musical, which has been a fixture at Broadway’s Gershwin Theatre since 2003, remains one of the most popular productions in theatre history. Featuring music and lyrics by Schwartz and a book by Holzman, the show won multiple Tony Awards, including Best Actress for Idina Menzel’s portrayal of Elphaba. It is now the fourth longest-running Broadway show of all time, continuing to draw audiences from around the world.

With Wicked: For Good, Cynthia Erivo’s contributions as both a performer and songwriter add a fresh and personal dimension to the beloved story. Fans of the musical and newcomers alike can look forward to an expanded and emotionally rich experience when the film debuts next year.

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