AIWorldNewz.com

Universal Plans Exciting New Chapters for Wicked Franchise

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 universe following the blockbuster success of "Wicked: For Good." According to studio executives, plans are "underway" to expand the franchise, potentially through new films or a television series, signaling a strategic move to capitalize on the franchise’s popularity. This development comes after the record-breaking box office performance of "Wicked: For Good," which has cemented its status as a cultural phenomenon. The studio’s interest aligns with broader industry trends of expanding successful properties into multimedia franchises, leveraging the rich lore of Oz to attract diverse audiences. In addition to the ongoing franchise development, several recent facts highlight the significance of this move: 1. The original "Wicked" musical, based on Gregory Maguire’s novel, has been a Broadway hit since 2003, with over 10 million tickets sold worldwide and multiple Tony Awards, establishing a strong fan base for its cinematic adaptation. 2. The film adaptation of "Wicked" has been in development for years, with a high-profile cast including stars like Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, and a production budget exceeding $150 million. 3. Industry insiders suggest that Universal is considering a multi-platform approach, including spin-off series focusing on secondary characters from the Wicked universe, to maximize franchise longevity. 4. The success of recent franchise expansions, such as the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Harry Potter spin-offs, demonstrates the profitability of sustained universe-building, which Universal aims to emulate. 5. The studio is also exploring innovative storytelling formats, including animated series and interactive digital content, to engage younger audiences and global markets. As Universal moves forward, fans can anticipate a variety of new content that deepens the Wicked universe, potentially including prequels, sequels, and side stories that explore the origins of iconic characters like Elphaba and Glinda. The strategic expansion aims to not only capitalize on the franchise’s existing popularity but also to introduce Wicked to new generations through cutting-edge cinematic and digital experiences. Industry analysts predict that this approach will solidify Wicked’s position as a multi-platform franchise, comparable to other major universes, and set new standards for franchise development in the entertainment industry. With the studio’s commitment and the franchise’s proven appeal, Wicked’s future looks brighter than ever, promising a new era of storytelling that combines nostalgia with innovation.

More recent coverage