A Celebration That Transcends Marketing
NBC’s “Wicked: One Wonderful Night” might have begun as a corporate tie-in, but by the time its 37-piece orchestra struck up, it had transformed into something far grander — a heartfelt musical celebration. The special, timed to build anticipation for the upcoming sequel “Wicked: For Good,” blended Hollywood production with Broadway nostalgia in a spectacle that even its most skeptical viewers couldn’t easily dismiss.
Yes, the broadcast was packed with “Wicked”-themed commercials promoting everything from luxury cars to soap, but that didn’t diminish the impact of the music. For fans who have followed the “Wicked” phenomenon for nearly a year, the televised event became a communal experience — a chance to relive the story’s magic and emotional pull.
The audience reflected that enthusiasm. Some came dressed in glittering green makeup, others in DIY Emerald City attire, creating a scene that looked half Broadway premiere, half sports tailgate. And while the costume effort varied wildly, the collective energy in the room was undeniable.
Musical Highlights and Emotional Reunions
The heart of the evening was, as expected, the music. Cast members from both parts of the John M. Chu-directed film adaptation took the stage, alongside “Wicked” icons Kristen Chenoweth and Idina Menzel — the original Glinda and Elphaba. Their duet with current stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande on the anthem “For Good” became the emotional centerpiece of the night.
Accompanied by composer Stephen Schwartz, the quartet delivered a rendition that managed to honor the original while giving space for Erivo and Grande to make the moment their own. Their voices intertwined in a performance that was both technically stunning and deeply personal. Grande appeared visibly moved, her expression mirroring the sentiment of countless fans watching at home.
Social media erupted during the broadcast, with viewers describing the number as “chills-inducing” and “one of those rare live TV moments that actually feels historic.”
From Stage to Screen — and Back Again
The special also underscored the enduring cultural power of “Wicked.” Last year’s film became the highest-grossing movie ever adapted from a Broadway musical and earned 10 Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande were both nominated for acting awards, while the film took home Oscars for production and costume design.
Now, as anticipation builds for “Wicked: For Good,” set to hit theaters on November 21, NBC’s event felt like both a victory lap and a teaser. It reminded audiences of what made “Wicked” resonate in the first place: its ability to balance spectacle with sincerity, and grandeur with heart.
A Fitting Encore for a Phenomenon
At its best, “Wicked: One Wonderful Night” was more than promotional content — it was a love letter to a story that has enchanted audiences for two decades. With music that continues to soar and performances that connect across generations, the special reaffirmed why “Wicked” remains a defining cultural touchstone.
As Stephen Schwartz’s orchestration swelled and the four Glindas and Elphabas sang together, it was clear that “One Wonderful Night” lived up to its name. The magic was real — and for fans, the best part is that the story isn’t over yet.
“Wicked: One Wonderful Night” is now available to stream on Peacock.