Colman Domingo joins the star-studded cast of “Wicked: For Good,” voicing the iconic Cowardly Lion in the highly anticipated follow-up to 2024’s Broadway blockbuster adaptation, premiering November 21, 2025.
Top Takeaways
- Colman Domingo will voice the Cowardly Lion in Universal’s “Wicked: For Good,” releasing November 21, 2025.
- He joins Ariana Grande (Glinda), Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba), Jonathan Bailey (Fiyero), and Jeff Goldblum (The Wizard) for the Oz-inspired musical adventure.
- Director Jon M. Chu cast Domingo through a direct Instagram message, leading to playful buzz and delighted fans on social media.
- The sequel introduces Dorothy, Tin Man, and Scarecrow for the first time in Wicked’s universe, connecting the story to the legendary “Wizard of Oz”.
- Domingo was recently nominated for an Oscar for “Sing Sing” and is a standout on the 2025 awards circuit.
Domingo Headlines in the Land of Oz
Colman Domingo, known for his powerful dramatic roles and recent Oscar buzz, takes on a classic in “Wicked: For Good.” He’ll bring playful spirit and fresh heart to the Cowardly Lion, joining a cast that has already electrified fans since 2024’s “Wicked.” Ariana Grande (Glinda) and Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba) reprise their celebrated roles, while Jonathan Bailey and Jeff Goldblum return to round out the story’s magical cast.
Director Jon M. Chu confirmed Domingo’s casting after reaching out via Instagram, noting, “I asked, ‘It’s not a ton of lines, but have a moment? I know you’re busy. I’ll come to you.’” Domingo’s enthusiastic reply: “Why the f— not, let’s go!” The announcement spread quickly across social media, with Domingo posting a playful “See you in Oz!” video featuring plush lion toys as fans celebrated and praised the inspired casting.
Star Cast, Classic Story—Now With New Twists
“Wicked: For Good” follows up on the hit musical’s alternate origin for the witches of Oz, introducing timelines and characters from “The Wizard of Oz” for the first time. Fans can expect appearances from Dorothy, Tin Man, and Scarecrow—all teased in early trailers and cast leaks. The Cowardly Lion, as voiced by Domingo, will be central to bridging the magical and emotional journey as Elphaba and Glinda’s paths entwine with Dorothy’s arrival.
Full Cast Highlights:
- Colman Domingo — Cowardly Lion
- Ariana Grande — Glinda
- Cynthia Erivo — Elphaba
- Jonathan Bailey — Fiyero
- Jeff Goldblum — The Wizard
- Michelle Yeoh — Madame Morrible
- Ethan Slater — Boq
Awards, Buzz, and Pop Culture Moments
Domingo’s casting comes at a peak in his career; he’s nominated for multiple awards in 2025, including a Best Actor Oscar nod for his work in “Sing Sing.” The impact of “Wicked: For Good” is already clear—its cast dominates the year’s awards circuit and the teaser trailer has become a social media event.
The first “Wicked” film set a high bar, earning ten Oscar nominations, two wins, and a box office exceeding $800 million worldwide. Critics expect “For Good” to outperform its predecessor, driven by fresh material and Domingo’s comic and emotional chops. Jon M. Chu told fans to expect “magic, music, and more heart than ever”.
“Casting Colman Domingo is a dream come true. The moment he steps onto the red carpet is going to be wild.” — Jon M. Chu
Quick Facts Table: Colman Domingo in “Wicked: For Good”
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Movie Title | Wicked: For Good |
| Release Date | November 21, 2025 |
| Studio | Universal Pictures |
| Role | Cowardly Lion (voice) |
| Director | Jon M. Chu |
| Main Cast | Domingo, Grande, Erivo, Goldblum |
| Oscar Noms (franchise) | 10+ (2024–2025) |
| Connection | “Wizard of Oz” & Broadway “Wicked” |
What’s Next in Oz?
With “Wicked: For Good,” audiences return to Oz at a pivotal time for musicals and movie franchises. Expect pop stars, Oscar talent, and a reimagining of beloved characters in dazzling musical numbers. Domingo’s playful take is already winning fans; critics predict a breakout for both the Cowardly Lion and its award-winning voice.
Early box office projections have “Wicked: For Good” as a holiday blockbuster, while Domingo’s performance is expected to add emotional depth and comic charm to a new Oz for a new generation.
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