The Original Wicked Broadway Cast: Where Are They Now? (2025 Update)

Two decades after defying gravity, the *Wicked* original Broadway cast remains one of the most iconic ensembles in theatrical history. When the curtain first rose on October 30, 2003, at the Gershwin Theatre, the world was introduced to the unforgettable pairing of Elphaba and Glinda, launching the careers of its principal actors into global superstardom. Today, the legacy of this groundbreaking production is more relevant than ever, especially with a highly anticipated two-part film adaptation on the horizon, making the question of "Where are they now?" a top search for fans worldwide.

The good news, as of December 2025, is that the original stars are not only thriving but are actively defining the current landscape of Broadway and Hollywood. From new musicals by *Wicked*'s own composer, Stephen Schwartz, to major film and television roles, the original cast members—Idina Menzel, Kristin Chenoweth, Norbert Leo Butz, and the late Carole Shelley—have continued their remarkable journeys. Their collective impact cemented *Wicked* as the fourth longest-running show in Broadway history, and their individual careers are a testament to the magic they first created in Oz.

The Iconic Original Broadway Cast: A Complete Biography & Role List

The 2003 original cast of *Wicked* was a powerhouse of talent, featuring multiple Tony Award winners and seasoned Broadway veterans. This ensemble not only brought the musical to life but also set the standard for every subsequent production globally. Their biographies are a deep dive into the history of modern musical theatre.

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• Idina Menzel (Elphaba)
  • Role: Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West.
  • Born: May 30, 1971, in Queens, New York.
  • Career Highlights: Originated the role of Maureen Johnson in *Rent* (Tony Nomination), won the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for *Wicked*, voiced Elsa in Disney's *Frozen* franchise, and starred in the Broadway musical *If/Then*.
  • Awards: Tony Award (Wicked), Drama Desk Award (Wicked, Rent).
• Kristin Chenoweth (Glinda)
  • Role: Glinda, the Good Witch.
  • Born: July 24, 1968, in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.
  • Career Highlights: Won a Tony Award for *You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown*, received a Tony Nomination for *Wicked*, starred in the TV series *Pushing Daisies* (Emmy Award), and appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including *Glee* and *The West Wing*.
  • Awards: Tony Award, Emmy Award, Drama Desk Award.
• Norbert Leo Butz (Fiyero)
  • Role: Fiyero Tigelaar, the love interest of both Elphaba and Glinda.
  • Born: January 30, 1967, in St. Louis, Missouri.
  • Career Highlights: Two-time Tony Award winner for Best Actor in a Musical for *Dirty Rotten Scoundrels* and *Catch Me If You Can*. Also known for his work in the Netflix series *Bloodline* and the Off-Broadway production *Cornelia Street*.
  • Awards: Two Tony Awards (Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Catch Me If You Can).
• Joel Grey (The Wizard)
  • Role: The Wizard of Oz.
  • Born: April 11, 1932, in Cleveland, Ohio.
  • Career Highlights: An EGOT nominee and one of the few artists to win both a Tony Award and an Academy Award for the same role (The Master of Ceremonies in *Cabaret*). A legendary figure in theatre, film, and photography.
  • Awards: Academy Award, Golden Globe Award, Tony Award (Cabaret).
• Carole Shelley (Madame Morrible)
  • Role: Madame Morrible, the headmistress of Shiz University.
  • Born: August 16, 1939, in London, England.
  • Career Highlights: Won a Tony Award for *The Elephant Man*. Also known for her role as one of the Pigeon Sisters in *The Odd Couple*. She was a prolific English actress who made her career in the US.
  • Status: Passed away on August 31, 2018, at the age of 79.
• Michelle Federer (Nessarose)
  • Role: Nessarose, Elphaba's younger sister and the Wicked Witch of the East.
  • Career Highlights: Returned to the role of Nessarose later in the *Wicked* run and starred in the Disney+ musical film *Better Nate Than Ever*. She is married to co-star Norbert Leo Butz.

The Original Cast Now: Latest Projects and 2025 Broadway Returns

The enduring success of *Wicked* has allowed its original stars to transition into a variety of high-profile projects. The year 2025, in particular, has been a major year for the original Elphaba and Glinda, who have both made highly-anticipated returns to the Broadway stage, cementing their status as theatrical royalty.

Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth: Back on Broadway in 2025

The two leading ladies, who created the iconic dynamic of the green witch and the bubbly blonde, have both made significant returns to New York theatre. Idina Menzel, the original Elphaba, is making her long-awaited return to Broadway in January 2025 with her new musical, *Redwood*. The show, which she co-conceived, explores themes of environmentalism and family, showcasing her continued commitment to new and challenging theatrical work. The *Redwood* cast album has also been released, allowing fans to experience her latest musical venture.

Meanwhile, Kristin Chenoweth, the original Glinda, is starring in the new musical *The Queen of Versailles*, which opened on Broadway in late 2025. This is a particularly exciting development for *Wicked* fans, as the musical was written by *Wicked*'s own composer, Stephen Schwartz, reuniting two key creative forces. Chenoweth portrays Jackie Siegel in the show, with performances scheduled through December 2025. This simultaneous return of both Menzel and Chenoweth to the Broadway spotlight twenty-two years after their *Wicked* debut is a rare and thrilling moment for theatre enthusiasts, demonstrating their continued influence on the industry.

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The Fiyero and Nessarose Connection: Continuing Their Legacy

The original Fiyero, Norbert Leo Butz, and the original Nessarose, Michelle Federer, have maintained busy careers both on and off the stage. Butz, a two-time Tony winner, continues to be a versatile performer, recently appearing in the Off-Broadway show *Cornelia Street* and on the big screen in the film *The Exorcist*. He also regularly performs cabaret shows, including a highly anticipated run at 54 Below in March 2025, where he showcases his incredible vocal talent beyond his famous role as Fiyero.

Michelle Federer, who created the role of Elphaba’s sister, Nessarose, is not only a respected actress but also married Butz, a relationship that famously blossomed during their time in Oz. They recently worked together on the Disney+ musical film *Better Nate Than Ever*, proving that the connections forged in the original *Wicked* cast are truly for good.

The Wizard and Madame Morrible: Honouring the Stage Legends

The seasoned veterans of the original *Wicked* cast, Joel Grey and Carole Shelley, brought a gravitas that anchored the fantastical story. Joel Grey, the original Wizard, is a living legend known for his work in *Cabaret*. In 2025, Grey continued to be active in the arts, with an exhibition of his photography, "Joel Grey/A New York Life," and an auction of his personal memorabilia, highlighting his decades-long impact on theatre and film.

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Carole Shelley, the original Madame Morrible, sadly passed away in 2018. Her legacy, however, is indelible. She was a Tony Award winner for *The Elephant Man* and her portrayal of the manipulative headmistress remains a definitive performance. Her work in the original company contributed immensely to the show’s critical and commercial success, and she is remembered as one of the great character actresses of the Broadway stage.

The Enduring Impact of the Original Production

The *Wicked* original Broadway cast did more than just open a show; they launched a cultural phenomenon that has grossed over $6 billion worldwide and continues to sell out the Gershwin Theatre. Their performances are the benchmark against which all others are measured, and their collective career trajectory showcases the immense talent required to originate roles in a modern classic. The upcoming two-part film adaptation, starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, is the ultimate testament to the foundation laid by Menzel and Chenoweth. As the film introduces a new generation to the untold story of the Witches of Oz, the original cast’s work will be celebrated anew, ensuring that their names and voices remain synonymous with one of the most beloved musicals of all time. Their careers, full of new projects and continued Broadway success in 2025, prove that for these legends, there is no stopping them now.