Colman Domingo Cast as Cowardly Lion in ‘Wicked: For Good’ Sequel

Colman Domingo Joins Star-Studded Cast of ‘Wicked’ Sequel as the Cowardly Lion

Award-winning American actor and playwright Colman Domingo has officially been cast as the Cowardly Lion in the highly anticipated film sequel, Wicked: For Good. This announcement confirms widespread internet speculation that had circulated over the past weekend, adding another prominent name to the already impressive ensemble.

Domingo’s involvement was first hinted at when director Jon M. Chu posted a cryptic message on social media, featuring a lion emoji and tagging Domingo. This immediately sparked a flurry of fan theories and discussions among followers of the Wicked film adaptations.

The Journey to Oz: Domingo’s Esteemed Career

Colman Domingo brings a wealth of experience and critical acclaim to the iconic role. His career spans decades across film, television, and theatre, showcasing his versatility and profound talent. He is perhaps best known for his compelling performances in:

• Film: Rustin (2023), for which he received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, and Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (2020).
• Television: Fear the Walking Dead and Euphoria, earning him an Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series for the latter in 2022.
• Theatre: His extensive work on Broadway includes writing and starring in Dot and A Boy and His Soul, and a Tony Award nomination for his performance in The Scottsboro Boys.

His role as the Cowardly Lion marks a significant addition to the Wicked universe, promising a nuanced and powerful portrayal of the beloved character.

‘Wicked’ Cinematic Universe: A Two-Part Spectacle

Universal Pictures is bringing the beloved Broadway musical Wicked to the big screen in two installments. The first film, simply titled Wicked, is slated for release in November 2024, with Wicked: For Good following in November 2025. This two-part approach aims to fully explore the intricate narrative and rich character development of the original stage production.

The films are directed by Jon M. Chu, known for his work on Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights. The screenplay is penned by Winnie Holzman and Stephen Schwartz, who also wrote the music and lyrics for the original Broadway show, ensuring fidelity to the source material.

Key Cast Members Announced for Wicked Films:

The cast features a mix of established stars and rising talents, promising a captivating adaptation:

• Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba (the future Wicked Witch of the West)
• Ariana Grande as Glinda (the Good Witch)
• Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero
• Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible
• Jeff Goldblum as The Wizard
• Ethan Slater as Boq
• Marissa Bode as Nessarose
• Bowen Yang as Pfannee
• Bronwyn James as ShenShen

This ensemble cast brings considerable star power and musical theatre experience to the project, heightening anticipation for the cinematic event.

The Enduring Legacy of the Cowardly Lion

The Cowardly Lion is one of the most iconic characters from L. Frank Baum’s original 1900 novel, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, and its subsequent adaptations, most notably the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz. The character is known for his deep-seated fear despite his imposing appearance, embarking on a journey with Dorothy to seek courage from the Wizard.

Domingo’s casting follows in the footsteps of legendary performers who have brought the character to life. His dramatic range and ability to convey complex emotions suggest a portrayal that will honor the character’s legacy while potentially bringing new depth to the role within the Wicked narrative, which explores the untold stories of Oz before Dorothy’s arrival.

Key Takeaways

• Colman Domingo has been cast as the Cowardly Lion in Wicked: For Good.
• The sequel is set for release in November 2025, following the first film in November 2024.
• Domingo is an Emmy-winning and Oscar-nominated actor, known for his roles in Rustin, Euphoria, and Fear the Walking Dead.
• He joins a star-studded cast including Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum.
• The films are directed by Jon M. Chu and adapted from the popular Broadway musical.

What’s Next

With both Wicked films now fully cast and in production, fans eagerly await the release of the first installment in November 2024. The casting of the Cowardly Lion completes a significant piece of the puzzle for the second film, Wicked: For Good, setting the stage for its November 2025 debut. Further trailers and promotional materials are expected to be released as the production progresses, offering deeper glimpses into this highly anticipated cinematic adaptation of the beloved story.