Wicked Writer Confirmed Plans For A Glinda Prequel, And I’ve Got Mixed Feelings

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Several movie musicals have won the top prize at the Oscars, and it remains to be seen if Jon M. Chu’s Wicked: For Good will be next. The Wicked sequel is already a huge success in theaters, and the franchise—including the original stage show—has a dedicated following. The world of Wicked is growing even larger, as author Gregor Maguire announced he’s releasing a novel next year called Galinda: A Charmed Childhood, which tells the story of Glinda’s early life. As a big fan of Wicked, I have mixed feelings about this new direction.

I’ve been a huge fan of the musical Wicked for years, especially Act II. I enjoyed the movie adaptation, but I’m concerned that the upcoming novel by Maguire will lead Universal to turn Wicked into a long-running movie series, and I’m not sure that’s necessary.

Both Wicked and For Good were huge hits in theaters, and with so many movies failing to connect with audiences these days, it’s understandable that Universal wants to capitalize on that success. However, I’m concerned that making too many films could ultimately diminish the impact of Jon M. Chu’s original blockbusters.

A prequel focusing on Galinda is a little confusing. When we first meet her in Wicked, she’s still very self-centered and doesn’t realize how her behavior affects others, especially Elphaba and Boq. The best part of the story is watching her develop and change through her friendships with them. It’s hard to imagine how much story there could be in a book—or movie—that explores Galinda’s life before she begins that journey of growth.

While a movie adaptation of Galinda: A Charmed Childhood isn’t confirmed, this isn’t the first time people involved with Wicked have suggested expanding the story. Composer Stephen Schwartz previously mentioned a potential spinoff project, telling The Ankler:

Winnie Holzman and I are currently brainstorming ideas related to the world of Wicked, but it won’t be a direct continuation of Glinda and Elphaba’s story. We feel their journey is finished, though there are other stories within that universe we could tell.

Universal hasn’t officially said if they’ll make more Wicked movies, but the authors of the original novel and musical are open to continuing the story, which is a good sign. The first film was a hit and received Oscar nominations, and if the upcoming For Good also earns recognition, Universal might be more likely to create additional movies set in the world of Oz. You can currently stream the first movie with an Amazon Prime subscription.

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2025-12-02 22:38