Amanda Seyfried Voices Frustration Over Wicked Casting Experience
Hollywood star Amanda Seyfried has opened up about her disappointment with the audition process for the highly anticipated Wicked movie adaptation, revealing she felt undervalued after investing significant effort into trying out for the lead role.
Six Auditions for Glinda Role That Went to Ariana Grande
The acclaimed actress, best known for her roles in Mean Girls and Mamma Mia!, disclosed during a recent interview with Radio Times that she underwent six separate auditions to portray Glinda the Good Witch in Jon M. Chu's cinematic prequel to The Wizard of Oz. Despite her dedication and preparation, the coveted part ultimately went to pop superstar Ariana Grande.
"I wasn't sad I didn't get it, but I guess I wish it had been communicated to me in a better way," Seyfried confessed. "I don't like to be in the dark about things. I like to feel appreciated."
Extensive Preparation and Musical Dedication
Seyfried elaborated on the extensive work she invested in the audition process, noting that she had been working on the musical material for years despite her busy schedule. "I loved it. I was busy. I barely had time to do it, but I made it work. I worked my ass off for years and years and years on that music," she told the In The Envelope podcast.
The actress described herself as competitive in a healthy way, emphasizing her commitment to showcasing her skills during the rigorous audition rounds. She reflected on the audition experience itself, stating: "There's something really beautiful about auditioning. If you really have the skill, you're going to show it no matter what."
Previous Comments on the Challenging Audition Process
This isn't the first time Seyfried has discussed the demanding Wicked casting procedure. She previously explained that producers required multiple auditions because the role of Glinda needed to be "really just right." Her comments highlight the intense scrutiny and pressure actors face during high-profile casting decisions for major film adaptations.
Musical Career Challenges and Live Singing Regrets
While Seyfried has established herself as a talented singer through roles in musical films like Mamma Mia! and its sequel, she has also faced challenges in this arena. She particularly recalled her experience filming Tom Hooper's 2012 adaptation of Les Misérables, where actors were required to sing live on set rather than recording vocals in a studio.
"Les Mis was an incredible movie. I loved it. The costumes, the people... We were all really happy to be there, but I, unfortunately, was not technically ready or capable of the live singing in the way that I would've liked to be," Seyfried admitted to GQ magazine last year. "I was lacking in a way that I really wish I hadn't been and that's a regret I have."
Career Trajectory and Future Prospects
Despite these setbacks, Seyfried's career continues to flourish with diverse roles that showcase her range as both actress and singer. Her candid reflections on the Wicked audition process and her Les Misérables experience provide rare insight into the behind-the-scenes realities of Hollywood musical productions and the emotional toll exacting audition processes can take on performers.
The actress's comments come as anticipation builds for the Wicked film adaptation, which features Grande as Glinda opposite Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba. Seyfried's revelations underscore the competitive nature of Hollywood casting and the importance of clear communication between studios and performers throughout the selection process.
