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Universal Plans to Expand 'Wicked' Franchise with New Sequel

Source: ‘Wicked’ Sequels Being Figured Out at Universal Pictures: ‘Things Are Underway’ to See How ‘We Can Continue in This Universe’ (2025-11-25)

Universal Pictures is actively exploring the future of the 'Wicked' franchise following the record-breaking success of 'Wicked: For Good.' According to Michael Moses, the studio’s chief marketing officer, efforts are "underway" to continue the beloved Land of Oz universe, with possibilities including new films or a television series. This development signals Universal’s strong confidence in the franchise’s potential for further storytelling, capitalizing on its massive popularity. Since its debut, 'Wicked: For Good' has shattered box office records, grossing over $1.2 billion worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing musicals adapted for the big screen. The film’s success has reignited interest in the original Broadway musical, which has been a cultural phenomenon since 2003, and has inspired a dedicated fanbase across generations. The franchise’s expansion aligns with Universal’s strategic focus on high-profile, immersive IPs that blend music, fantasy, and innovative storytelling. Recent industry trends suggest that Universal is considering a multi-platform approach, leveraging both cinematic and streaming avenues to maximize audience engagement. The company is reportedly in early talks with writers and producers to develop a new installment that could explore untapped stories within the Land of Oz, including backstories of iconic characters like Elphaba and Glinda, or entirely new narratives set in the same universe. Furthermore, the franchise’s potential expansion is supported by the increasing popularity of musical adaptations on streaming platforms, with Netflix and Disney+ investing heavily in musical and fantasy content. This strategic move could see 'Wicked' branching into a TV series, similar to successful franchises like 'The Witcher' and 'Shadow and Bone,' which have garnered large audiences and critical acclaim. In addition to the on-screen projects, Universal is also exploring merchandise, theme park integrations, and interactive experiences to deepen fan engagement. The franchise’s musical roots, combined with cutting-edge visual effects and compelling storytelling, position it as a prime candidate for cross-media expansion. Industry analysts believe that Universal’s investment in 'Wicked' reflects a broader trend of studios capitalizing on established IPs to create multi-layered entertainment ecosystems. This approach not only boosts revenue streams but also enhances brand loyalty among diverse audiences. The studio’s focus on innovative storytelling techniques, including augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), could revolutionize how fans experience the Land of Oz in the near future. As the franchise moves forward, fans can anticipate a variety of content formats, from feature films to streaming series, immersive experiences, and merchandise. The ongoing development underscores Universal’s commitment to maintaining the franchise’s cultural relevance and expanding its global footprint. With the original musical’s enduring popularity and the film’s record-breaking performance, the future of 'Wicked' looks brighter than ever, promising new adventures and deeper explorations of its beloved characters. In summary, Universal Pictures is actively working on expanding the 'Wicked' universe through new movies or TV series, driven by the franchise’s recent blockbuster success. The studio’s strategic plans include exploring untold stories within the Land of Oz, leveraging multi-platform content, and integrating innovative technologies to engage fans worldwide. This move aligns with industry trends favoring IP-driven entertainment ecosystems, ensuring 'Wicked' remains a dominant force in musical fantasy storytelling for years to come. Fans and industry insiders alike are eager to see how Universal will bring new chapters to life in this enchanting universe, promising a vibrant future for the 'Wicked' franchise.

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