Lin-Manuel Miranda, the acclaimed creator of the Broadway sensation Hamilton, recently shed light on his absence from the much-anticipated film adaptation of Wicked, directed by Jon M. Chu. Miranda, who previously collaborated with Chu in the highly praised 2021 movie version of In The Heights, took to The Late Show with Stephen Colbert to discuss his feelings about not being cast in this iconic production. This revelation has stirred considerable curiosity among fans, as Miranda has become synonymous with musical theater success.
During his interview, Miranda spoke candidly about wanting to play a specific role in Wicked, particularly the memorable opening line delivered by a munchkin that queries, “Is it true you were her friend?” His enthusiasm for the character was palpable as he described the dramatic flair that actors often inject into this pivotal moment. However, he ultimately acknowledged that casting himself in the part would have introduced a level of distraction that could detract from the overall narrative.
Miranda humorously recognized how his take on the line might have differed significantly from the interpretation of the eventual cast member, Kirsty Anne Shaw. He mentioned, “I would have done very Regina George, Mean Girls-like,” highlighting his propensity to lean into a more comedic and possibly exaggerated performance style. Such a revelation brings to light his self-awareness as an artist and the understanding that not all roles align with an actor’s signature style.
Despite missing out on the opportunity, Miranda was supportive of the film’s final casting choices, particularly praising Shaw’s earnest delivery. His reflections underscore a deep respect for the collaborative nature of theater adaptations, emphasizing that the success of a production relies heavily on the collective talents of its cast and creative team. The film features an impressive array of stars, including Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande as Elphaba and Glinda, alongside a diverse ensemble that includes Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, and Michelle Yeoh, among others.
The impact of Wicked on Broadway cannot be overstated, and its film adaptation is generating excitement within the theater community and among audiences worldwide. Moreover, the anticipation builds for the sequel, Wicked: For Good, set to premiere on November 21, 2025. As fans look forward to this new chapter, Miranda’s insights serve as a reminder of how even beloved artists can find joy in stepping back and celebrating the work of their peers.
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s reflections on his experience with the Wicked film adaptation highlight important themes of collaboration and self-awareness in the world of theater. His balance of humor and sincerity offers a valuable perspective, proving that sometimes the best decisions for a production come from understanding one’s place within it.