The release of Wicked: For Good has sparked a major revelation among fans, many of whom are only just uncovering a pivotal family secret about the green witch, Elphaba.
The second part of the blockbuster film adaptation, which continues the story based on the hit musical, landed in cinemas on November 21. Starring Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, the narrative explores their unlikely friendship in the events preceding The Wizard of Oz.
The Paternal Mystery Unravelled
Throughout the story, Elphaba believes her father is the man who raised her, Frexspar. Their relationship is notoriously strained, with Frexspar harbouring clear disdain for his so-called daughter.
However, a crucial plot point reveals that Elphaba's biological father is actually The Wizard of Oz himself. The connection originated when Elphaba's mother, Melena, consumed a mysterious green elixir linked to The Wizard. This elixir is widely believed to be the direct cause of Elphaba's distinctive green skin.
This convergence of two different worlds is also thought to be the source of her immense magical powers. While this paternal truth is discovered by Elphaba in the original book by Gregory Maguire, the musical version, which the films closely follow, omits this revelation. This means that in Wicked: For Good, Elphaba likely remains forever in the dark about her true lineage.
Fan Reactions Pour In
Social media platform X has been alight with comments from audiences connecting the dots, sometimes years after first encountering the story. One user exclaimed, "my gf only understood that the wizard is elphaba's dad after watching the play a 2nd time, that's how rushed act 2 is lol."
Another posted, "Just realized in #Wicked that the Wizard of Oz is Elphaba’s actual dad and the movie basically tells you in the first 10 minutes." A third fan queried, "It's been like a decade since I saw Wicked. Is the Wizard Elphaba's dad in the movie like in the books?" highlighting the confusion between different adaptations.
A fourth viewer pointed out the lingering mystery, writing, "Watching wicked. Why haven’t we talked about how the Governor isn’t Elphaba’s real dad and her mom dead without saying anything?"
A New Face for The Wizard
In this highly anticipated new instalment, the role of The Wizard is taken on by the acclaimed actor Jeff Goldblum, famous for his roles in major films like Jurassic Park and Independence Day. His portrayal adds a new layer to the character who is unknowingly at the heart of a central family drama.
As Wicked: For Good continues to draw crowds to cinemas, this long-hidden secret continues to be a major talking point, proving that the land of Oz still holds surprises for even its most devoted followers.
