Universal's 'Wicked: For Good' is projected to open with $150 million to $180 million in North America, potentially surpassing the first film's record debut. The musical sequel reunites stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo under director Jon M. Chu. It aims to revive a sluggish fall box office season.
Box Office Projections
'Wicked: For Good,' the second installment in Universal's adaptation of the Broadway hit, is forecasted to debut strongly with $150 million to $180 million from 4,000 North American theaters over its opening weekend. This projection could make it the biggest launch of 2025, topping 'A Minecraft Movie' ($162 million) and the 'Lilo & Stitch' remake ($146 million). The first 'Wicked' set a benchmark for stage-to-screen adaptations with $112.5 million in its pre-Thanksgiving opening, and the sequel is expected to shatter that mark. Universal offers a more conservative estimate of $125 million or higher, while some reports suggest it could reach $200 million-plus.
Cast and Production Details
Directed by Jon M. Chu, the film continues the story of Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo) and Glinda (Ariana Grande) as the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum) and Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh) scheme against the green-skinned witch. Produced for $300 million across both parts—excluding marketing—the sequel dives into the darker second act of the musical, though it may lack some of the first film's memorable songs. The original 'Wicked' grossed $756 million globally, fueled by positive word-of-mouth and its soundtrack.
Market Context
Arriving after a weak October, 'Wicked: For Good' faces limited competition, with 'Sisu: Road to Revenge' targeting $3 million and 'Rental Family' aiming for low single digits. It pairs with 'Zootopia 2' opening November 26, potentially pushing Thanksgiving totals past last year's $433 million record. 'This is great news after a rather dismal month of October,' says Comscore's Paul Dergarabedian.