The Wicked legacy continues to expand as seven prominent actresses have shaped the Wicked Witch of the West across major film, stage, and television adaptations. From Margaret Hamilton’s 1939 performance to Cynthia Erivo’s modern portrayal in the 2024–2025 Wicked films, each version reflects evolving storytelling and character interpretation. Fans have long followed how the Wicked universe reimagines the witch’s origins, personality, and cultural relevance. With Wicked: For Good now in theaters, audiences are revisiting the actresses who helped define the character over nearly a century. This report breaks down the key performances, the reactions they generated, and the character’s lasting impact.
Who: Seven actresses who played the Wicked Witch of the West across major Wicked and Wizard of Oz adaptations.
What: A detailed look at their performances and influence.
When: From 1939 through the 2024–2025 releases of Wicked and Wicked: For Good.
Where: Across Broadway, Hollywood films, live television events, and musical productions.
Why: Because each portrayal helped evolve a culturally defining character.
How: Through unique interpretations shaped by script changes, era-specific storytelling, and creative direction.
Key Performances Across Adaptations
The role of the Wicked Witch began with Margaret Hamilton in The Wizard of Oz (1939), where her green-skinned villain became the definitive screen interpretation for generations.
Mabel King followed in The Wiz (1978), portraying Evillene in a reimagined, urban adaptation with its own musical identity.
On Broadway, Idina Menzel reintroduced the character as Elphaba in Wicked (2003). Her performance reframed the witch as a misunderstood protagonist, launching a modern cultural phenomenon.
In 2005, Miss Piggy portrayed both the Wicked Witch and Glinda in The Muppets’ Wizard of Oz, adding comedic contrast to the character’s lore.
Mila Kunis took on the role of Theodora in Oz the Great and Powerful (2013), exploring the witch’s origin story and moral decline.
Mary J. Blige revived Evillene in NBC’s The Wiz Live! (2015), bringing vocal power and stage presence to the character.
Most recently, Cynthia Erivo carried the mantle in Wicked (2024) and Wicked: For Good (2025), bringing emotional depth and modern nuance to Elphaba on screen.
Quotes & Reactions From Creators and Stars
Idina Menzel reflected on watching a new generation take over the role, saying she felt “bittersweet but excited,” noting how the character “changed her life” and remains deeply personal.
Mila Kunis admitted she was “incredibly frightened” to tackle a role made iconic by Hamilton, emphasizing her focus on building an original take grounded in character development.
Mary J. Blige highlighted her respect for tradition while adding her own style, explaining she kept the portrayal aligned with Evillene’s roots while bringing “a little Mary to it.”
Cynthia Erivo described discovering new layers in Elphaba, revealing that she was surprised by how much freedom existed within the character’s so-called “bible” of performance expectations.
Cultural Influence of Wicked Portrayals
Each performance directly influenced how audiences interpret the Wicked Witch today. Hamilton established the archetype; Menzel redefined her as a hero; Erivo expanded her emotional complexity for modern viewers.
The character’s evolution mirrors shifting themes in entertainment, from early cinematic villainy to contemporary narratives about identity, justice, and misunderstood power.
The Wicked franchise continues to reshape audience expectations, strengthening the character’s place as one of musical theater and film’s most influential roles.
Future Adaptations and Announcements
With Wicked: For Good now released, Universal is expected to announce extended content, behind-the-scenes materials, and potential touring expansions.
Broadway revivals and anniversary editions remain likely, especially with the franchise approaching major milestones.
Future casting discussions will continue to draw widespread attention as the Wicked universe evolves.
Sources
People.com Entertainment Desk
Broadway.com Archives
NPR Arts & Culture
Universal Pictures Production Notes
