The “Wicked: For Good” press tour will be wrapping up soon, but fans aren’t quite ready to say goodbye to the story and its beloved characters “for good” just yet. Sadly, all good things must come to an end, and the next time we’re likely to see the entire cast together again may be during a special anniversary event — or perhaps in a few decades’ time, should a remake of the two-part films ever be produced.
As sad as fans may be that this era is ending, no one is more attached to the story than Glinda and Elphaba themselves. Even before the official casting was announced, both Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo gave their all during auditions in the hope of landing the roles of their dreams. Now that those dreams have come true, it is finally time for them to say goodbye. Here’s what the two stars wrote about parting with their characters:
Ariana Grande
Let’s begin with Ariana Grande, who posted a heartfelt letter on Instagram yesterday (Sunday, 23rd November) to bid farewell to the magical land of Oz and her character Glinda. In the tribute, she wrote: “I fell in love with ‘Wicked’ when I was 10 years old. It has been an escape and a place where I knew I could find comfort and understanding throughout my childhood and adult life. Loving something dearly and becoming it are two very different things. Becoming your Glinda the Good and being asked to join this most wonderful group of human beings on a most creatively and emotionally fulfilling journey was the greatest gift of my life.”
The Oscar nominee went on to express gratitude for the opportunity to play the iconic character and how much the story has moved fans the same way it has changed her life. “Before I go, please remember: whenever things get scary or you feel alone, home is wherever and with whomever we want it to be, and there’s no place like home. Your chosen Ozian family loves you exactly as you are, and I couldn’t be thankfuller that you exist. Love always, Ariana (Your Glinda),” she concluded.
Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo wrote her tribute days prior to Ariana’s, reflecting her experience playing the iconic green witch. “I could write you an essay, a poem, Shakespearean prose, to describe what this journey has meant to me, what lessons this time has taught me, bought me. I could try to give a metric to the love I have felt and experienced. I could give a number to the stories I have heard. The truth is, the numbers are too small and the words are not enough. So I’ll simply say this. Take my hand and walk with me to the end of this road paved with gold, and hopefully, the things that I’ve found might find you, too. Thank you for letting me be your Elphaba,” she wrote.
We’re truly going to miss these two portraying Glinda and Elphaba, but it likely won’t be the last time we see them perform together. There’s a good chance they may take the stage at next year’s Grammy Awards, and we still have the 2026 Academy Award nominations to look forward to. Until then, let’s enjoy the little time we have left before saying goodbye “for good”.
