Producer Reveals How He Convinced Idina Menzel to Make a Cameo in Wicked Movie

The highly anticipated Wicked movie adaptation has finally hit theaters, and fans are buzzing with excitement over the star-studded cameos featured in the film. While many were expecting these surprises, some of the behind-the-scenes details are now being revealed, including the story of how one major star was initially hesitant to appear—and how the producer ultimately convinced her.

Wicked Movie Cameos: A Special Moment

In the Wicked movie, during the “One Short Day” musical number, original Broadway stars Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel make appearances, much to the delight of long-time fans. Kristin, who played Glinda on Broadway, was quick to join the film project, but Idina, who portrayed Elphaba, took some convincing.

Producer Marc Platt shared some insight into the process of getting both legends on board. He explained that when the two women arrived on set, the cast and crew, particularly Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, and director Jon Chu, were in awe of them. “There was so much love and respect from the movie cast,” Platt said. “They had grown up listening to Kristin and Idina, and you could feel that sense of legacy and admiration.”

Idina Menzel’s Hesitation

While Kristin was enthusiastic about returning to Wicked, Idina was initially more reserved. “Idina didn’t want to rain on anything that had to do with Cynthia,” Platt recalled. “She thought, ‘This is Cynthia’s moment. I want her to have her moment.’” It was clear that Idina was being considerate of the new generation of stars taking on these iconic roles.

The Convincing Moment

So, what changed Idina’s mind? According to Platt, it was a heartfelt conversation about the impact of Wicked and its legacy. He told both Idina and Kristin, “Both of you are going to want to touch the film. You’re part of the Wicked lore forever.” Platt emphasized that the cameo was not just about the actors themselves but about being part of something much larger. “This is something bigger than you,” he explained. “For the rest of your lives, you’ll always be part of Wicked, even in the film.”

With that, both stars agreed to participate, recognizing that their contribution would immortalize them as part of the Wicked legacy, regardless of the evolving generations of performers. Platt continued, “The ability to join those two worlds, the stage world of the original and the film world, was something no one will ever forget who witnessed that night of shooting. It was really beautiful.”

More Cameos in Wicked

In addition to Chenoweth and Menzel, Wicked also features cameos from composer Stephen Schwartz and writer Winnie Holzman, who both make appearances during the “One Short Day” sequence. Schwartz plays the guard who tells Elphaba and Glinda, “The Wizard will see you now,” adding another layer of connection between the film and its Broadway roots.

The Wicked movie not only honors the iconic musical but also beautifully bridges the gap between its theatrical origins and its cinematic future, making it an unforgettable experience for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.