Several Celebrities Nearly Cast in Broadway’s ‘Wicked’ Musical

NEW YORK — November 21, 2025 — A number of well-known celebrities were reportedly close to being cast in the Broadway hit musical “Wicked” during its early production stages, according to industry sources.

The musical, which has enjoyed long-standing popularity since its debut, attracted interest from a diverse group of performers from both the music and acting worlds. Among those nearly cast was singer Nick Jonas, whose involvement would have marked a notable crossover from pop music to musical theater.

Other celebrities considered for roles in “Wicked” included actors and musicians who have since pursued varied careers in entertainment. While details about the specific roles they were considered for remain limited, insiders suggest that casting directors explored a wide range of talent to bring the story’s characters to life.

“Wicked,” which tells the backstory of the witches from “The Wizard of Oz,” has been praised for its complex characters and memorable score. The production’s casting process is known to be highly competitive, often involving numerous auditions and considerations of performers from different artistic backgrounds.

Industry observers note that the potential involvement of high-profile celebrities could have influenced the musical’s early reception and audience demographics. However, the final casting decisions ultimately favored performers with extensive theater experience, contributing to the show’s critical and commercial success.

The musical continues to be a staple of Broadway, with ongoing productions and tours worldwide. Its enduring appeal is attributed to strong storytelling, compelling music, and the performances of its cast members.

While the celebrities who nearly joined “Wicked” did not become part of the original or subsequent casts, their near-involvement highlights the broad interest and competitive nature of casting in major theatrical productions. The story also underscores how casting choices can shape the trajectory and legacy of a show.

As “Wicked” maintains its place in theater history, the revelation of these near-casts offers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes decisions that contribute to the making of a Broadway phenomenon.