The Complete Timeline: When Did Wicked Come Out? (It's Not Just One Date!)

The question "When did *Wicked* come out?" has a surprisingly complex answer, as the beloved story of Elphaba and Glinda has had three distinct, major releases across three different decades. As of today, December 18, 2025, the most recent and highly anticipated release is the first part of the cinematic adaptation, which has just flown into theaters. To gain true topical authority on this pop culture phenomenon, you must understand the full timeline, which stretches from a dark fantasy novel in the mid-90s to a blockbuster film saga that began in late 2024 and continues into 2025.

The untold story of the Witches of Oz is a modern classic, but its origin story is often misunderstood. Whether you're a long-time "Fierce" Broadway fan, a reader of Gregory Maguire's original work, or a new fan excited for the big-screen spectacle, here is the complete, definitive timeline of every major release date for the *Wicked* franchise.

The Definitive *Wicked* Release Date Timeline (Novel, Musical, and Film)

The "untold story" of the Wicked Witch of the West has been told and retold across three major mediums, each with its own significant release date. Understanding these dates is key to appreciating the full scope of the *Wicked* universe.

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1. The Novel: When Did the Original *Wicked* Book Come Out?

The entire global phenomenon began with a dark, satirical fantasy novel. The original source material is a much different beast than the family-friendly musical it inspired.

• Release Date: 1995
• Full Title: *Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West*
• Author: Gregory Maguire
• Context: Maguire’s novel was published in 1995 and serves as an adult-oriented prequel and re-imagining of L. Frank Baum’s classic 1900 novel, *The Wonderful Wizard of Oz*. It explores the backstory of the green-skinned Elphaba, delving into complex political, social, and ethical themes. The novel's success paved the way for the stage adaptation, though the musical significantly softened the tone and plot elements for a broader audience.

2. The Musical: When Did *Wicked* Open on Broadway?

The stage musical, which became a global box office sensation and cultural touchstone, premiered at the turn of the millennium. This is the version most people associate with the title.

• First Performance (Tryout): May 28, 2003, at the Curran Theatre in San Francisco.
• Official Broadway Opening Date: October 30, 2003
• Venue: The Gershwin Theatre, New York City
• Key Figures: Stephen Schwartz (Music and Lyrics), Winnie Holzman (Book), Joe Mantello (Director).
• Original Cast: Idina Menzel as Elphaba and Kristin Chenoweth as Glinda.
• Context: *Wicked* opened on Broadway in late 2003 and quickly became a massive hit, celebrated for its powerful score, spectacular staging, and the compelling friendship between the two witches. It has since become one of the longest-running and highest-grossing Broadway musicals of all time, with a successful run also opening in London's West End in 2006.

The Newest Chapter: The *Wicked* Film Release Dates (2024 & 2025)

The latest and most discussed release in the *Wicked* saga is the long-awaited two-part film adaptation, directed by Jon M. Chu and starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda. This cinematic event provides the most up-to-date answer to "When did *Wicked* come out?"

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3. The Film Adaptation: *Wicked: Part I*

The decision to split the musical into two separate films was made to allow the story to be told with greater depth, preventing major cuts to the beloved songs and plot details. This first part covers the initial meeting and relationship between the two main characters.

• Official US Theatrical Release Date: November 22, 2024
• Title on Screen: *Wicked: Part I*
• Director: Jon M. Chu
• Lead Cast: Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba), Ariana Grande (Glinda), and Jeff Goldblum (The Wizard).
• Context: The film adaptation, which had its world premiere in Sydney on November 3, 2024, debuted to massive anticipation, capitalizing on the musical's two-decade legacy. Its release perfectly timed for the Thanksgiving holiday weekend in the US, making it a major blockbuster event for 2024.

The narrative of *Wicked: Part I* focuses on Elphaba's arrival at Shiz University, her accidental bond with Glinda, their rivalry, and the pivotal moments that lead to Elphaba embracing her destiny as the Wicked Witch of the West. The visual spectacle and powerful vocal performances by Erivo and Grande were immediate talking points upon release.

4. The Film Adaptation: *Wicked: For Good* (Part II)

The story of Elphaba and Glinda will conclude on the big screen with the second installment, which takes its name from the musical's famous song, "For Good."

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• Official US Theatrical Release Date: November 21, 2025
• Title: *Wicked: For Good*
• Context: This second part is scheduled to be released exactly one year after the first, concluding the epic journey and revealing the final fate of the two witches, detailing the events that lead directly into the classic *Wizard of Oz* story.

Why the *Wicked* Release Dates Matter for Topical Authority

Understanding the chronological release of the *Wicked* entities—the 1995 novel, the 2003 musical, and the 2024/2025 film duology—is crucial for anyone seeking to discuss the franchise with authority. Each release represents a distinct evolution of the source material:

• The Novel (1995): A foundation of dark, complex political allegory.
• The Musical (2003): A transformation into a universally adored, emotionally resonant story of female friendship and societal prejudice, becoming a Broadway powerhouse.
• The Film (2024/2025): The latest, most accessible, and technologically advanced version, introducing the story to a new generation of fans globally through the cinematic vision of Jon M. Chu.

The sheer longevity and success of *Wicked* across these different mediums—from the pages of Gregory Maguire’s book to the Gershwin Theatre stage and now to the silver screen—cement its place as one of the most successful and enduring fantasy franchises of the 21st century. The film's 2024 release is a culmination of nearly 30 years of storytelling. The next key date to mark on your calendar is November 21, 2025, for the highly anticipated conclusion, *Wicked: For Good*.