Academy Award-nominated actor Colman Domingo has opened up about his distinctive approach to portraying the beloved Cowardly Lion in the upcoming cinematic adaptation of the hit musical Wicked, revealing he's crafting a voice that's "for good" rather than simply replicating previous interpretations.
In an exclusive interview, the Rustin star explained his thoughtful process in bringing the iconic character to life, emphasising emotional authenticity over imitation. "I'm not doing a voice that is trying to be like Bert Lahr or anybody else," Domingo stated, referencing the original 1939 Wizard of Oz performer.
Finding the Heart Behind the Roar
Domingo's interpretation focuses on uncovering the genuine vulnerability beneath the character's fearful exterior. "I think I'm doing a voice that is for good," he revealed, suggesting his approach serves the story's deeper themes rather than mere nostalgia.
The actor described his character preparation as an exploration of the Lion's emotional journey: "I'm finding the character somewhere in me, and I'm allowing the character to have the spirit of who I think this lion is—someone who is a bit cowardly but has a great heart."
Joining an All-Star Cast
Domingo joins an impressive ensemble cast in Jon M. Chu's two-part film adaptation, working alongside Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda. The production represents one of the most anticipated musical adaptations in recent cinema history.
When asked about potential comparisons to previous Cowardly Lion portrayals, Domingo expressed confidence in his creative choices: "I'm not concerned about it because I'm not trying to mimic or do anything that's already been done."
A Fresh Take on a Classic Character
The Emmy-winning actor's approach demonstrates the careful balance required when reimagining beloved characters for new generations. Rather than attempting to recreate past performances, Domingo seeks to honour the character's essence while bringing his own interpretation to the role.
His method highlights the evolving nature of character adaptation in modern cinema, where authenticity and emotional truth often take precedence over direct imitation of previous portrayals.
With production underway, audiences can anticipate a Cowardly Lion that blends the character's classic charm with Domingo's unique artistic sensibility when Wicked arrives in cinemas.
