From Billie Burke To Ariana Grande: 10 Actresses Who Wore Glinda The Good Witch's Crown

The role of Glinda the Good Witch is one of the most coveted and iconic in Hollywood, a sparkling beacon of goodness that has captivated audiences for generations. The character, who serves as the benevolent ruler and guide in the Land of Oz, has been reimagined and reinterpreted across major film, television, and Broadway productions, creating a fascinating lineage of talented actresses. As of December 18, 2025, the buzz around the role is arguably at its highest point in decades, thanks to a massive, two-part cinematic adaptation currently underway.

While most people immediately recall the ethereal, soft-spoken star of the 1939 classic, the truth is that many celebrated performers have taken on the mantle of the Good Witch. This deep dive explores the complete history of Glinda's portrayers, focusing on the most influential performances and the highly anticipated new face stepping into the pink bubble.

The Original Icon: Billie Burke’s Timeless Portrayal

The definitive image of Glinda in the cultural zeitgeist belongs to Billie Burke, whose performance in the 1939 film *The Wizard of Oz* set the standard for all who followed. Her portrayal of Glinda the Good Witch of the North was characterized by a distinctive, breathy voice, a gentle, maternal presence, and a dazzling, star-topped wand.

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Billie Burke: Biography and Profile

• Full Name: Mary William Ethelbert Appleton Burke
• Born: August 7, 1884, in Washington, D.C.
• Died: May 14, 1970, in Los Angeles, California (Age 85)
• Spouse: Florenz Ziegfeld Jr. (married 1914; died 1932)
• Career Highlights: Star of the stage and screen in the Golden Age of Hollywood, known for her comedic roles and being nominated for an Academy Award for her role in *Merrily We Live* (1938).
• The Role: Glinda the Good Witch of the North in *The Wizard of Oz* (1939).

Burke was already a well-established star of both the stage and silent films before taking on the role of Glinda, and her aristocratic, charming persona made her the perfect choice for the benevolent witch. Her life was a mix of enchantment and tragedy, having been married to the legendary Broadway impresario Florenz Ziegfeld Jr., whose death left her financially burdened and pushed her to work tirelessly in Hollywood. Her performance as Glinda remains a masterclass in classic Hollywood charm, ensuring her place as the ultimate Good Witch.

The New Era: Ariana Grande and the *Wicked* Cinematic Event (2024 & 2025)

The most talked-about and current iteration of the character is the one being brought to life by pop superstar Ariana Grande. Grande is set to star as Glinda in the highly anticipated two-part film adaptation of the Broadway musical *Wicked*.

The first part of the film, simply titled *Wicked*, is scheduled for release in late 2024, with the second part, *Wicked: For Good*, following a year later in November 2025. This modern portrayal, based on the character Galinda Upland from the musical, is a prequel that explores the complex relationship between Glinda and Elphaba, who becomes the Wicked Witch of the West.

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Grande’s casting generated immense excitement, given her vocal prowess and lifelong connection to the musical. Early glimpses and promotional materials have shown her in the full, frothy pink ballgown, promising a dazzling and faithful interpretation of the stage role. The focus on this upcoming film ensures that the character of Glinda remains a fresh, relevant topic in 2025 and beyond.

The Stage Legends: Glinda on Broadway and Beyond

Before the film adaptation, the musical *Wicked* was responsible for introducing Glinda to a new generation and giving the character an unprecedented depth and backstory. The role of Glinda (or Galinda, as she is initially known) on stage requires a unique blend of comedic timing, vocal brilliance, and dramatic range, leading to a prestigious line of actresses.

The Original Broadway Glinda: Kristin Chenoweth

No discussion of modern Glinda is complete without Kristin Chenoweth. She originated the role of Glinda on Broadway in 2003, starring opposite Idina Menzel's Elphaba. Chenoweth’s performance defined the character's journey from a self-absorbed, 'popular' girl to the genuinely Good Witch, earning her a Tony Award nomination. Her interpretation is the blueprint for the character that Ariana Grande will be following on screen.

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Notable Broadway & Touring Glindas

The role of Glinda in *Wicked* has been a career-defining opportunity for many talented performers over the past two decades. These actresses have kept the show running in New York and on international tours, each bringing their own sparkle to the role:

• Megan Hilty: A prominent successor to Chenoweth, Hilty played Glinda on Broadway and in the national tour, becoming a fan favorite.
• Kara Lindsay: Known for her long and popular run as Glinda on Broadway.
• Patti Murin: A versatile actress who has charmed audiences as Glinda.
• Alli Mauzey: A veteran Glinda, having played the role across multiple productions.
• Erin Mackey: Another notable actress who donned the bubble dress on Broadway.
• Ginna Claire Mason: Known for her long tenure in the role on Broadway.
• Alexandra Socha: One of the more recent actresses to take on the role on Broadway, continuing the show's legacy.

Glinda in Other Major Film and Television Adaptations

The Good Witch has also appeared in various other official and unofficial adaptations of L. Frank Baum's Oz books, each offering a distinct take on the beloved character. These roles demonstrate the enduring topical authority of the Glinda character.

Michelle Williams in *Oz the Great and Powerful* (2013)

In the 2013 prequel film *Oz the Great and Powerful*, directed by Sam Raimi, three-time Academy Award nominee Michelle Williams played the role of Glinda. This film presented Glinda as the daughter of the murdered King of Oz, a more regal and traditional portrayal that acted as a direct contrast to the Wicked Witches. Williams brought a quiet dignity and strength to the young Good Witch, further cementing the character’s presence in modern cinema.

Sunny Mabrey in *Once Upon a Time* (TV Series)

The popular ABC fantasy drama *Once Upon a Time* featured its own version of the Oz mythology. The character of Glinda, the Good Witch of the South, was portrayed by actress Sunny Mabrey in the show’s third season. Mabrey’s Glinda was depicted as a benevolent but lonely figure, trapped in the Enchanted Forest, offering a unique, serialized television interpretation of the classic witch.

The Complete Lineup of Major Glinda Portrayers

From the original film to the latest blockbuster adaptation, the list of actresses who have played Glinda is a testament to the character's lasting power. Whether she is teaching Dorothy how to get home or helping Elphaba find her true self, Glinda remains one of fantasy's most important and complex figures.

• Billie Burke (*The Wizard of Oz*, 1939)
• Kristin Chenoweth (Original Broadway *Wicked*, 2003)
• Michelle Williams (*Oz the Great and Powerful*, 2013)
• Sunny Mabrey (*Once Upon a Time*, 2014)
• Ariana Grande (*Wicked* Film, 2024 & *Wicked: For Good*, 2025)
• Megan Hilty (*Wicked* Broadway/Tour)
• Kara Lindsay (*Wicked* Broadway)
• Patti Murin (*Wicked* Broadway)
• Alli Mauzey (*Wicked* Broadway)
• Alexandra Socha (Current *Wicked* Broadway)