The Original Broadway Cast Of Wicked: 7 Legends And Their Shocking Current Lives 20 Years Later

The cultural phenomenon that is Wicked continues to defy gravity, especially as its original stars mark a monumental milestone and prepare for a new chapter. The musical, which premiered on Broadway on October 30, 2003, at the Gershwin Theatre, celebrated its 20th Anniversary in 2023, bringing the foundational cast back into the spotlight. As of today, December 18, 2025, the careers of these Broadway legends—Idina Menzel, Kristin Chenoweth, and their co-stars—have taken fascinating and diverse paths, from new Broadway shows to major Hollywood film appearances, proving their star power remains as potent as ever.

This deep dive explores the full original principal cast, revealing their unforgettable roles, their latest career moves, and how they are currently influencing theatre and film, including their reactions to the massive upcoming Wicked movie adaptation starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. Get ready to be "Popular" with the freshest updates on the witches and wizards who first brought the Land of Oz to life.

The Original Broadway Cast: A Complete Biography and Profile

The 2003 original Broadway cast of Wicked is considered one of the most iconic ensembles in modern musical theatre history. Their chemistry and groundbreaking performances set the standard for every production that followed. Here is the full list of the principal cast members who debuted at the Gershwin Theatre:

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• Idina Menzel (Elphaba): The misunderstood, green-skinned witch. Menzel earned a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for this role.
• Kristin Chenoweth (Glinda): The bubbly, blonde, and ultimately good witch. Chenoweth received a Tony Award nomination for her performance.
• Norbert Leo Butz (Fiyero): The self-absorbed, charming love interest. Butz received a Tony nomination for this role.
• Joel Grey (The Wizard of Oz): The seemingly benevolent but ultimately deceptive leader of Oz. A veteran star of stage and screen.
• Carole Shelley (Madame Morrible): The corrupt and powerful headmistress. A Tony Award-winning actress.
• Michelle Federer (Nessarose): Elphaba’s wheelchair-bound sister and the future Wicked Witch of the East.
• Christopher Fitzgerald (Boq): The Munchkin who is hopelessly in love with Glinda.
• William Youmans (Doctor Dillamond): The beloved, talking goat professor at Shiz University.

Where Are They Now? The Latest Projects of the Original Witches and Wizards

Two decades after they first sang "Defying Gravity" and "Popular," the original cast members have continued to dominate the entertainment world. The recent 20th Anniversary celebration in October 2023 served as a powerful reminder of their enduring legacy and provided a fresh look at their current endeavors.

Idina Menzel (Elphaba) and Kristin Chenoweth (Glinda)

The dynamic duo at the heart of the show remains incredibly active and connected to their Ozian roots. Their recent reunion at the Los Angeles premiere of the Wicked film was a major news event, where they posed with the new film stars, Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba) and Ariana Grande (Glinda).

• Idina Menzel’s Current Work: Menzel, the voice of Elsa in Disney’s Frozen, is currently back on Broadway, starring in the new musical Redwood, which premiered to critical acclaim. Her return to the New York stage highlights her dedication to developing new theatre, even as she remains a global film star. She also recently released a new album, showcasing her powerful vocal range.
• Kristin Chenoweth’s Current Work: Chenoweth has been busy with concert tours and television projects. She continues to be a vocal advocate for the arts and has been heavily involved in promotional events for the Wicked movie, offering her blessing and support to the new cast. She and Menzel also recently reunited to perform "For Good" at a special benefit event, demonstrating their unbreakable bond.

Their ongoing visibility and enthusiastic support for the movie and the musical's legacy keep the "original Broadway cast of Wicked" keyword highly relevant in current searches.

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Norbert Leo Butz (Fiyero)

The two-time Tony Award winner, who played the charming Fiyero, has maintained a highly successful career across all media.

• Recent Projects: Butz continues to balance stage, film, and television work. He recently appeared on the Off-Broadway stage in the musical Cornelia Street at the Atlantic Theater, demonstrating his commitment to new, challenging theatre work. On screen, he can be seen in the film The Exorcist. Looking ahead, Butz is scheduled to perform a cabaret engagement at the iconic 54 Below in New York City in March 2025, offering fans an intimate look at his musical talents.

Joel Grey (The Wizard)

A true Broadway icon and Oscar winner for his role in Cabaret, Joel Grey brought immense gravitas to The Wizard.

• Recent Honors and Work: Grey, who celebrated his 92nd birthday in 2024, remains an active figure in the theatre community. In 2023, he received a highly prestigious Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre, recognizing his decades of contributions to the art form. In addition to acting, Grey is an acclaimed director and photographer, often showcasing his work in galleries.

Carole Shelley (Madame Morrible)

Carole Shelley’s portrayal of the deliciously wicked Madame Morrible was a masterclass in theatrical villainy.

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• A Lasting Legacy: It is important to note that the beloved actress passed away in August 2018 at the age of 79. Her incredible career, which included a Tony Award for her performance in The Elephant Man, is remembered as one of Broadway’s most distinguished. Her legacy lives on through the original cast recording and the indelible mark she left on the role.

The Enduring Legacy of the Original Cast and the Wicked Movie

The original cast of Wicked is more than just a list of names; they are the architects of a cultural phenomenon. Their performances are preserved on the Original Broadway Cast Recording, which remains one of the best-selling cast albums of all time. The show itself has grossed over $1 billion on Broadway alone, securing its place as a true theatrical giant.

The excitement surrounding the upcoming two-part film adaptation of Wicked, set for release in 2024 and 2025, has reignited interest in the original stage production. The original cast members, particularly Menzel and Chenoweth, have been vocal in their support, passing the torch to the new generation of stars. This transition highlights the show's core theme: the bond between two friends whose lives are changed "For Good."

The continuous topical relevance of the "original Broadway cast of Wicked" is driven by these ongoing events—the 20th anniversary, the movie, and the individual successes of its stars. They didn't just perform in a show; they created a piece of theatrical history that continues to inspire fans and future performers worldwide. Their continued presence in new Broadway productions, films, and special events ensures that the original magic of Oz is never far from the spotlight. Searching for their names today provides a direct link to the most current and relevant entertainment news.

The enduring power of Wicked lies not only in its spectacular music and story but in the foundation laid by these seven incredible principal performers. Their careers, two decades later, are a testament to the talent that first brought the untold story of the Witches of Oz to life, proving that true Broadway legends always find a way to defy gravity.