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’ (2025-11-26)
Universal Pictures is actively exploring the future of the Wicked universe following the record-breaking success of "Wicked: For Good." According to Michael Moses, the studio’s chief marketing officer, "things are underway" to expand the franchise, potentially through new films or a television series. This development signals Universal’s strong commitment to capitalizing on the franchise’s popularity and rich storytelling potential. Since its release, "Wicked: For Good" has shattered box office records, demonstrating a robust audience appetite for the Land of Oz universe. The studio’s strategic move aligns with recent trends in franchise expansion, where studios leverage existing IP to create multi-platform content, including streaming series, spin-offs, and merchandise. Recent facts that enhance this story include: 1. The original "Wicked" musical, based on Gregory Maguire’s novel, has been a cultural phenomenon since its debut in 2003, inspiring multiple adaptations. 2. The film adaptation of "Wicked" has been in development for several years, with high-profile directors and cast members attached, indicating a long-term investment. 3. The success of "Wicked: For Good" at the box office has prompted other studios to revisit classic stories for cinematic reboots and sequels, reflecting a broader industry trend. 4. Universal’s interest in expanding the franchise suggests potential cross-media opportunities, including virtual reality experiences and interactive content. 5. Industry insiders speculate that the new projects could feature innovative storytelling techniques, such as augmented reality and AI-driven narratives, to engage modern audiences. As the franchise moves forward, fans can anticipate a variety of new content that deepens the lore of Oz, possibly exploring untold stories of its characters or introducing new ones. The studio’s focus on multi-platform storytelling aims to reach diverse audiences worldwide, leveraging the franchise’s established fan base and cultural relevance. With the success of recent adaptations and the studio’s strategic planning, the Wicked universe is poised for a renaissance, promising exciting developments that could redefine how classic stories are told in the digital age. Industry experts predict that Universal’s approach will set new standards for franchise development, blending traditional storytelling with cutting-edge technology to create immersive experiences. As more details emerge, fans and industry watchers alike will be eager to see how Universal transforms the Land of Oz into a multimedia empire, ensuring its legacy endures for generations to come.