Michelle Yeoh Warned Jon M. Chu About Her Singing Before Being Cast in ‘Wicked’

NEW YORK — Michelle Yeoh informed director Jon M. Chu that she could not sing professionally before accepting her role in the film adaptation of the musical “Wicked,” officials said. Yeoh revealed during an appearance on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert that Chu contacted her to offer the part of Madame Morrible without requiring an audition. After reading the script, Yeoh told Chu, “Jon, my love, it’s a musical — and I don’t sing. Not properly or professionally or anything like that.” Chu responded, “Don’t worry about it,” demonstrating his confidence in her casting.

Yeoh expressed initial uncertainty about how she would manage the role but ultimately agreed to join the project after Chu informed her that lead actresses Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo were also involved. On set, Yeoh admitted to feeling nervous about singing alongside the two performers, who sing live. She described her own singing as “squeaking” during her scenes and credited Erivo with giving her a pep talk that helped boost her confidence.

The film adaptation of “Wicked” was released in two parts, with Yeoh’s role becoming more prominent in the second installment, “Wicked: For Good.” The musical is known for having a stronger first act, with many of its most popular songs appearing early in the show. The second act, which features more singing from Yeoh’s character, has received mixed reactions from audiences and critics.

Social media discussions have included criticism of Yeoh’s singing performance, with some viewers expressing disappointment. However, many have pointed out that Yeoh was transparent about her singing limitations from the start and that Chu insisted on casting her regardless. Some commentators have suggested that it was unfair to hold Yeoh solely responsible for the reception of her musical performance, given her prior warnings and Chu’s decision to cast her.

Yeoh also joked in a separate interview that she feared being recast after the filmmakers heard her sing. Despite the criticism, she remains a respected figure in the film industry, and her openness about the challenges of performing in a musical has been noted by fans and critics alike.