Wicked Crushes the Competition, Storms Into the Top 5 Highest-Grossing Movie Musicals of All Time

Despite losing the box office crown to Moana 2 and Sonic the Hedgehog 3, Wicked continues its magical run, adding nearly $20 million in its sixth weekend. This brings its total global earnings to a staggering $634 million, with $424 million from domestic audiences and $210 million from international markets. These impressive numbers have catapulted Wicked into the history books as the fifth highest-grossing movie musical of all time worldwide, surpassing acclaimed hits like Mamma Mia!, La La Land, and 2023’s Wonka.

Anticipation Builds for ‘Wicked: For Good’

The film’s sustained success highlights its remarkable staying power. Against fierce competition, Wicked has proven its ability to resonate with audiences worldwide, captivating both die-hard fans of the Broadway musical and new moviegoers alike. Its blend of spectacular visuals, compelling storytelling, and a star-studded cast has been a recipe for success.

Climbing the Musical Ladder

Wicked’s latest milestone is no small feat, outpacing even 2016’s animated favorite Sing. The film’s ability to surpass such notable titles underscores its appeal as a cinematic masterpiece. However, a significant $150 million gap lies between Wicked and the next target, Coco, a challenge that may prove insurmountable as the film approaches the tail end of its theatrical run.

Topping the list of the highest-grossing musicals are juggernauts Frozen II ($1.4 billion) and its predecessor, Frozen, with Beauty and the Beast (2017) claiming third place. While Wicked might not dethrone these titans, its enduring appeal demonstrates that this Broadway-to-screen adaptation is a blockbuster hit. Its success also sets the stage for future musicals, inspiring filmmakers to bring more theatrical adaptations to the silver screen.

Setting the Stage for a Darker Sequel

The spellbinding journey isn’t over yet. Wicked: For Good, the second part of the adaptation, is already generating immense buzz ahead of its release in late 2025. Promising a darker tone, this installment will delve deeper into Nessa’s (Marissa Bode) and Boq’s (Ethan Slater) ill-fated love story, as well as the heartbreaking fate of Fiyero’s (Jonathan Bailey). Fans can expect the same jaw-dropping visuals, emotional depth, and high-stakes drama that defined the first chapter of this Broadway masterpiece.

The darker themes of Wicked: For Good are likely to add a fresh dimension to the story, appealing to audiences who crave more mature and intense narratives. With high expectations from both fans and critics, the sequel is positioned to break records and expand Wicked’s legacy even further.

Musical Magic in the Making

The excitement extends to the musical numbers, with fans eagerly awaiting new songs crafted by the legendary Stephen Schwartz. Speaking on the Awards Circuit podcast, Cynthia Erivo teased one particular track that promises to be an emotional powerhouse. “I remember when we filmed it, the cast and crew were crying,” Erivo revealed, hinting at the profound impact this song will have.

The first film’s songs, from “Defying Gravity” to “Popular,” were celebrated for their emotional resonance and technical brilliance. With new additions promised in the sequel, the musical legacy of Wicked is set to reach even greater heights, ensuring audiences have much to look forward to when Wicked: For Good hits theaters.

A Cinematic Phenomenon to Remember

As Wicked continues its unprecedented run, its global resonance proves that the allure of Oz’s untold stories is as potent as ever. Whether it’s through its box office dominance, its heart-wrenching narrative, or its unforgettable music, Wicked cements itself as a timeless addition to the world of movie musicals. The film has not only enchanted audiences but also set a benchmark for future musical adaptations, demonstrating the potential for Broadway classics to thrive on the big screen.