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"Wicked: For Good Breaks Box Office Records with $226M Debut"

Source: Wicked: For Good dominates with record breaking $226M opening weekend (2025-11-23)

Wicked: For Good has shattered box office records with a staggering $226 million global opening weekend, including $150 million in North America. This remarkable achievement marks the largest-ever opening for a Broadway musical adaptation, surpassing last year's Wicked debut of $112.5 million and ranking as the third-highest musical film debut in history, behind The Lion King (2019) and Beauty and the Beast (2017). The film's success is attributed to star power, with Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, whose performances have been widely praised for their energy and depth. The movie opened in 4,115 theaters, earning $68.7 million on its first day, including $30.8 million from preview screenings, and set a new record for the second-largest three-day opening before Thanksgiving. Industry analysts highlight that the film's marketing campaign, which leveraged social media buzz and fan engagement, played a crucial role in its record-breaking performance. Additionally, the film's release coincided with a resurgence in musical film popularity, driven by streaming platforms and renewed interest in theatrical experiences post-pandemic. The success of Wicked: For Good is also notable for its diverse cast, with Ariana Grande's crossover from pop icon to actress drawing significant attention, and Cynthia Erivo's acclaimed portrayal of Elphaba earning critical praise. The film's impressive box office numbers are expected to influence future adaptations of stage musicals, signaling a robust market for musical films in the evolving entertainment landscape. As the third-most successful musical movie debut, Wicked: For Good is poised to continue its momentum with international releases and potential awards recognition, further cementing its place in cinematic history. This record-breaking opening underscores the enduring appeal of musical storytelling and the power of star-driven performances in captivating global audiences.

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