Wicked Part Two: What We Know About the Epic Conclusion

Following the record-breaking success of Wicked: Part One, anticipation is already soaring for Wicked: Part Two. Directed by Jon M. Chu and based on the beloved Broadway musical, the second installment is set to arrive in theaters on November 21, 2025, continuing the story of Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Ariana Grande) as they navigate the fallout from their life-altering choices.

Here’s everything we know so far about the next chapter in the magical land of Oz.

A Groundbreaking First Chapter

Wicked: Part One, released on November 22, 2024, shattered box office records with an estimated $114 million domestic opening, marking the highest opening ever for a musical adaptation. Critics and fans alike praised the film for staying true to the original while introducing new layers of storytelling. Erivo’s show-stopping rendition of “Defying Gravity”brought the first film to a climactic close, leaving audiences eager for the darker, more complex themes of the second act.

What to Expect in Part Two

Plot Overview
The second film picks up where Part One left off, diving into the parallel timeline of The Wizard of Oz. Act Two of the stage musical—and presumably the film—explores Elphaba’s transformation into the Wicked Witch of the West, her rebellion against the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum), and her tragic separation from Glinda.

The story also expands on beloved secondary characters. Nessarose (Marissa Bode), Elphaba’s sister, becomes the Wicked Witch of the East, and Boq (Ethan Slater) transforms into the Tin Man after a spell gone wrong. Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey), now the Scarecrow, faces his own challenges while trying to protect Elphaba from the Wizard’s schemes.

New Music and Scenes

Two New Songs
Oscar-winning composer Stephen Schwartz, who wrote the original Broadway score, has confirmed two new songs for Part Two. One will be a solo for Glinda, expanding on her inner turmoil and the “consequences” of her choices. Another remains a mystery, but it promises to deepen the emotional impact of this darker chapter.

Expanded Storylines
Chu’s cinematic vision includes several new scenes hinted at in Part One’s promotional material. Fans may see Dorothy’s arrival in the Emerald City and the infamous tornado that sweeps her into Oz—events only alluded to in the stage musical. Additionally, the tension between Glinda and Elphaba over the ruby slippers and Glinda’s eventual ascension to “Glinda the Good” will receive a more lavish and detailed depiction.

Returning Cameos and Characters
The second film will see the return of the ensemble cast, including Michelle Yeoh as the manipulative Madame Morrible. Part One also featured surprise appearances from Broadway icons Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel, the original Glinda and Elphaba, in the “One Short Day” sequence. Speculation suggests more West End and Broadway legends may join Part Two.

Behind the Scenes: Jon M. Chu’s Vision

Director Jon M. Chu has been open about the challenges and rewards of adapting Wicked. His decision to split the musical into two films stemmed from the desire to preserve every iconic song and moment from the stage production. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Chu explained, *“We knew we didn’t want to pull the movie away from the show so far that it wasn’t the show I loved. We needed to give the story room to breathe, especially leading up to ‘Defying Gravity.’”

The two films were shot back-to-back over 160 days, with production briefly delayed by the Hollywood strikes. The cast and crew reconvened earlier this year to complete the remaining scenes, ensuring continuity between the two parts.

The Darker Side of Oz

While Part One dazzled with its bright, poppy visuals and uplifting songs, Part Two promises to delve into darker themes. The political machinations of the Wizard and Madame Morrible will come to a head, with Elphaba leading a rebellion to protect the oppressed animals of Oz. Meanwhile, Glinda faces the moral dilemma of choosing duty over friendship, culminating in the emotional duet “For Good.”

Spoilers Ahead: A Familiar Ending?

Fans of the stage musical will recognize Part Two’s bittersweet conclusion. Elphaba is believed to have perished after Dorothy throws water on her, but a twist reveals she survived, escaping Oz with Fiyero (as the Scarecrow). Meanwhile, Glinda banishes the Wizard and takes control of Oz, leaving audiences with a poignant message about power, loyalty, and the cost of doing what’s right.

As the release date for Wicked: Part Two approaches, excitement continues to build. With new music, expanded storylines, and a return to the magical world of Oz, the sequel promises to be an unforgettable cinematic experience.

What are you most excited to see in Wicked: Part Two? Let us know as we count down to November 2025!