Wicked and Gladiator II Set for Same Release Date This November

Published: 2024-07-03

Get ready film buffs because Wicked is soaring to the big screen earlier than expected! The much-awaited film adaptation of the beloved Broadway show now hits theaters on November 22, ahead of its original Thanksgiving weekend release. This new date places it in direct competition with another highly anticipated sequel, Gladiator II.

The film’s director, Jon M. Chu, shared the exciting news on social media, posting, 5. DAYS. EARLIER!!!! Let’s goooo!! #WickedMovie #Nov22, confirming that Wicked will step into the limelight ahead of Disney’s Moana 2.

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo star as Glinda the Good Witch and Elphaba respectively. The movie explores their journey from rivalries to an unlikely friendship at Shiz University. Jonathan Bailey steps into the role of Fiyero, while Michelle Yeoh portrays Madame Morrible, and Jeff Goldblum takes on the iconic role of the Wizard of Oz.

Interestingly, the announcement arrives on the heels of Universal Pictures’ release of a new trailer for Wicked. Fans are buzzing over Cynthia Erivo’s riveting performance of “Defying Gravity,” showcased in the teaser. The production also stirred excitement during the latest Tony Awards where Idina Menzel praised her successor, saying, I’m just gonna go off script real quick to say how excited I am to see what I know is going to be an amazing performance in that movie that you’re doing.

Menzel’s appreciation indicates high hopes for actors like Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, destined to dazzle us in this grand production. With previous accolades like Erivo’s Tony-winning portrayal in Harriet and Grande’s multi-platinum recording status, expectations are soaring as high as Elphaba herself.

Gladiator II also drops on November 22. The buzz around this epic sequel is palpable, with franchise fans eager to dive back into ancient Rome. It stars Connie Nielsen returning as Lucilla alongside other prominent actors whose roles we can’t wait to explore further.

The scheduling clash between these two major releases adds a competitive edge reminiscent of last year’s ‘Barbenheimer’ phenomenon where Barbie and Oppenheimer clashed at the box office.

Wicked: Part One releases on Nov. 22, 2024, with Part Two following a year later on Nov. 26, 2025.