Darlings, hold onto your broomsticks — NBC is about to serve up the most delicious treat since Glinda first bubble-traveled into our hearts. The network’s latest spell? A dazzling live special featuring the incomparable Cynthia Erivo and pop goddess Ariana Grande, set to transform the Dolby Theater into their personal playground this November 6th.
Talk about perfect timing. This two-hour extravaganza swoops in just as the buzz around “Wicked: For Good” reaches fever pitch, two weeks before its theatrical debut. (And honey, if you thought the first installment was massive, just wait until you see what’s brewing for the holiday season.)
The first “Wicked” film didn’t just break records — it shattered them with the force of a house dropping on, well… you know who. A cool $750 million global box office? Check. Peacock’s biggest Pay 1 launch in history? Obviously. The crown for highest-grossing Broadway adaptation ever? Please, was there ever any doubt?
But here’s where things get really interesting. While Erivo and Grande are undoubtedly the main event (and rightfully so — have you heard those pipes?), word on the street suggests we might be treated to some seriously major surprise appearances. NBCUniversal’s being typically coy about the details, but darling, reading between the lines of their press release is half the fun.
The creative team? Absolutely stellar. Emmy winner Ben Winston’s taking charge — you know, the mastermind behind those gorgeously produced Grammy telecasts. He’s partnering with Raj Kapoor, whose work on “The Oscars” and that utterly fabulous Dua Lipa special proved he knows how to make magic happen on screen.
Speaking of magic, let’s dish about that cast. Jonathan Bailey’s Fiyero (who’s been causing quite a stir on social media lately), Ethan Slater’s adorably complex Boq, Michelle Yeoh serving pure authority as Madame Morrible, and Jeff Goldblum… well, being perfectly Goldblum as the Wizard. While the special’s full guest list remains under wraps, expect some serious star power to grace that stage.
After its NBC debut, the special finds its forever home on Peacock starting November 7th. Smart move, really — especially with streaming numbers expected to hit new heights in early 2025. It’ll join an impressive collection of “Wicked” content that’s already got fans spending more time in Oz than Dorothy herself.
The timing couldn’t be more perfect as we barrel toward “Wicked: For Good” (premiering November 21st, but you knew that already). Early whispers suggest the sequel dives even deeper into that deliciously complex relationship between our favorite witches, while tackling themes that feel surprisingly relevant to our current moment.
Honestly? This special isn’t just another promotional piece — it’s shaping up to be the must-watch event of the season. And darling, in a year that’s already given us so much entertainment excellence, that’s saying something indeed.