Following the record-breaking success of Wicked, and with the upcoming sequel Wicked: For Good set to soar into theaters this November, fans of Oz might be in for an even bigger surprise. While the Broadway hit was always split into two acts—and the film adaptation followed suit—co-writer Winnie Holzman has just added fuel to the rumor mill: a third Wicked movie could be on the table.
In an exclusive red carpet conversation at the New York City Tisch Gala, Holzman, who co-wrote the screenplay for both Wicked films alongside Dana Fox, spoke with ScreenRant’s Liam Crowley and hinted that creative wheels might be turning for more trips to Oz.
“Sort of. A little bit. Yeah, a little bit. Nothing real.”
Her quote was short but telling. And in the world of blockbuster franchises, a little bit is sometimes all it takes.
From Musical To Mega Hit
Based on Gregory Maguire’s novel and adapted into a Broadway musical by Holzman, Wicked has long held a spell over theatergoers. But the 2024 film adaptation exceeded expectations—earning glowing reviews and amassing a magical $748 million at the global box office. The buzz for Wicked: For Good, the second and final act of the story, has only intensified as it nears its November 21st release date.
With such massive cultural momentum, it’s no surprise the creative team is at least toying with the idea of expanding the universe further. Still, Holzman was clear: nothing has been greenlit, and any future installment would have to break new ground.
Why A Third “Wicked” Movie Would Be Tricky Magic
Here’s where things get complicated. While Wicked and For Good both had the advantage of adapting an established stage musical, a third film would require building a completely original story. Gregory Maguire’s book series—which dives into much darker, more complex territory—introduces characters like Elphaba’s son Liir and her granddaughter Rain. But these figures don’t exist in the current movie universe, making adaptation difficult and potentially disjointed for audiences expecting continuity.
Moreover, the tone of Maguire’s later works is notably heavier and more political, a far cry from the vibrant spectacle of the musicals. And let’s not forget: it took over a decade just to bring the first two films to life, with source material already in hand.
A New Oz? Or Close The Curtain?
While fans are always eager to return to a beloved world, there’s reason to tread carefully. As Holzman herself seems to imply, stretching the story beyond its natural arc could risk diluting the magic that made Wicked resonate in the first place. The success of the first movie was rooted in its faithful adaptation—its balance of wonder, wit, and emotional weight.
To go forward, a third installment would need to be brave enough to be entirely original while honoring what came before. It’s a tall order, but in the world of Oz, stranger things have happened.
Final Thoughts: Defying Gravity Or Staying Grounded?
For now, Wicked: For Good remains the final act—and the central focus. But Holzman’s comments open the door, even if just a crack, to the possibility of Oz expanding once again. Whether that door becomes a yellow brick road or simply a footnote in fan conversations depends on how the creative winds blow. Nonetheless, when it comes to Wicked, never say never.
