Where Are They Now? The Shocking Current Projects Of The Original Wicked Broadway Cast (Updated 2025)

Over two decades after its historic debut, the original Wicked Broadway cast remains the gold standard for the beloved musical. As of December 2025, the legacy of the show’s first stars—Idina Menzel (Elphaba) and Kristin Chenoweth (Glinda)—is more relevant than ever, especially with the highly-anticipated two-part film adaptation on the horizon. This deep dive uncovers the latest career updates, surprising reunions, and the enduring impact of the actors who first brought the untold story of the Witches of Oz to life at the Gershwin Theatre. The information here is current and fresh, reflecting their activities through late 2024 and early 2025, proving their careers are still defying gravity.

The 2003 production was a cultural phenomenon, earning ten Tony Award nominations and forever changing the landscape of musical theatre. The chemistry between the leads, Menzel and Chenoweth, was electric, setting a benchmark for every actress who followed. Their careers have exploded across film, television, and music, but their roots in Oz are still central to their public identity, prompting fans worldwide to constantly ask: Where are the original Witches of Oz now?

Defying Gravity: The Complete Original Broadway Cast Biographies and Current Status (2025)

The original ensemble was a powerhouse of Broadway talent, many of whom have gone on to win Tony Awards and star in major Hollywood productions. Here is a complete profile of the principal original cast members and their most recent professional updates.

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• Idina Menzel (Elphaba):
  • Role: Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West.
  • Tony Award: Best Actress in a Musical (2004).
  • Current Status: Continues a successful film and music career. In late 2024, she was actively promoting her new music and discussing her potential involvement (a cameo or creative role) in the upcoming two-part Wicked film, starring Cynthia Erivo. She also frequently performs in concert tours.
• Kristin Chenoweth (Glinda):
  • Role: Glinda, the Good Witch.
  • Tony Award: Nominee (2004); previously won for You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown.
  • Current Status: A prolific television and film actress, Chenoweth has recently been involved in various TV projects and holiday specials (as seen in November 2024 updates). She remains a vocal champion of the arts and has teased the possibility of a future Broadway reunion project with Menzel, capitalizing on their enduring public appeal.
• Norbert Leo Butz (Fiyero):
  • Role: Fiyero Tigelaar.
  • Tony Award: Won Best Actor in a Musical for Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (2005) and Catch Me If You Can (2011).
  • Current Status: A highly respected Broadway and screen actor. He continues to take on challenging roles in television series and limited runs on the stage, maintaining a reputation as one of Broadway's most versatile leading men.
• Joel Grey (The Wizard):
  • Role: The Wizard of Oz.
  • Tony Award: Won for Cabaret (1967).
  • Current Status: The legendary Oscar and Tony winner continues to work as an actor, director, and photographer. His long and distinguished career remains active, often appearing in supporting roles in high-profile television and film projects.
• Carole Shelley (Madame Morrible):
  • Role: Madame Morrible.
  • Tony Award: Nominee (2004); previously won for The Elephant Man (1979).
  • Current Status: A revered stage actress, she has continued her career with various stage and screen appearances, though her role as Morrible is one of her most recognized in recent history.
• Michelle Federer (Nessarose):
  • Role: Nessarose, Elphaba's sister.
  • Current Status: Continues to work in theatre and has also become involved in directing and teaching, passing on her extensive stage experience to new generations of performers.

The Electric Reunion: Celebrating 20 Years and Beyond

The most significant and recent news surrounding the original cast is their enthusiastic participation in the musical’s 20th-anniversary celebrations and the lead-up to the cinematic release. This activity has provided fans with fresh content and a powerful reminder of their groundbreaking performances.

In a major event, Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth reunited to perform the iconic duet "For Good." This performance was part of the 20th-anniversary festivities, demonstrating that their vocal chemistry and friendship are as strong as ever, two decades later.

Their reunion wasn't just a nostalgic look back; it was a promotional powerhouse for the franchise. The two stars have been frequently interviewed together, offering behind-the-scenes stories from the original run and expressing their excitement for the new film. This public camaraderie keeps the original production in the spotlight, ensuring its legacy is not overshadowed by the new movie.

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The Original Cast’s Influence on the Two-Part Wicked Film

The upcoming two-part film adaptation, directed by Jon M. Chu and starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, is the biggest catalyst for the renewed interest in the original cast. The stars of the stage production have been incredibly supportive of the new movie, offering their blessings and advice to the film's leads.

Idina Menzel, in particular, has been open about her willingness to appear in the film, perhaps in a cameo role that would bridge the two generations of the Ozian story. While no official announcement has been made regarding a cameo, the possibility of seeing the original Elphaba on screen in the new cinematic universe is a major source of fan speculation and excitement.

Kristin Chenoweth has also used her platform to praise Ariana Grande's casting, noting the emotional connection she has to the role and the musical's enduring message of female friendship. This public support from the original Glinda has helped to generate positive buzz and ease any fan concerns about the transition from stage to screen.

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The film project also features new original songs written by Stephen Schwartz, the musical's original composer, which Menzel and Chenoweth have previewed and discussed, further cementing their continued creative connection to the material.

Beyond Oz: The Diverse Career Paths of the Broadway Legends

While Wicked remains a cornerstone, the original cast members have built incredibly diverse and successful careers in various entertainment fields, showcasing their tremendous range and star power.

Idina Menzel: From Broadway to Disney and Beyond

Menzel transitioned seamlessly from her Tony-winning role to a global superstar, primarily through her voice work as Elsa in Disney's *Frozen* franchise. The song "Let It Go" became a cultural phenomenon, rivaling the popularity of Wicked's "Defying Gravity." She has also starred in films like *Enchanted* and its sequel, *Disenchanted*, proving her versatility across musical and non-musical roles. Her concert tours consistently sell out, featuring a mix of Broadway classics, pop hits, and her own original songs.

Kristin Chenoweth: A Television and Film Fixture

Chenoweth has become a recognizable face on television, with memorable roles in popular shows like *Glee* and *Pushing Daisies*, the latter earning her an Emmy Award. Her bubbly personality and impeccable comedic timing have made her a sought-after host and guest star. Her career exemplifies the successful crossover from the rigorous world of Broadway to the broader appeal of Hollywood, all while maintaining her vocal prowess through albums and concerts.

Norbert Leo Butz: The Actor's Actor

Butz has solidified his status as one of Broadway's most respected dramatic and musical actors, with two Tony Awards for non-Wicked roles. His work often involves intense, character-driven performances in both new plays and musicals, demonstrating a commitment to the craft that goes beyond blockbuster hits. His presence in a cast signals a high-quality, critically acclaimed production, whether on stage or on screen.

The original Wicked cast is far from a historical footnote. Their active careers, recent reunions, and crucial involvement in the film's promotional cycle keep their 2003 performances fresh in the minds of theatre lovers and new fans alike. Their story is a powerful testament to the longevity of true Broadway talent and the enduring magic of the musical that taught us to look at the world from a different perspective.