In a move that has stunned fans, the highly anticipated film Wicked: For Good has finally unveiled the actress playing the iconic role of Dorothy Gale, and it's not a Hollywood A-lister. Just three days before the film's global release on Friday, November 21, it was confirmed that Bethany Weaver, a 30-year-old pilates instructor and dancer from Surrey, has bagged the famous part.
From Surrey to the Silver Screen
The casting of Dorothy, a role immortalised by Judy Garland in the 1939 classic The Wizard of Oz, had been one of the film industry's most closely guarded secrets. For months, speculation ran rampant across social media, with names like Maddie Ziegler, Alisha Weir, Taylor Swift, and Dove Cameron being floated by eager fans. However, the global embargo has now lifted, revealing Bethany Weaver as the woman behind the gingham dress.
Despite the prestige of the role, viewers should not expect an extended close-up. In a twist faithful to the original stage production, where Dorothy is only seen in silhouette, Bethany's screen time is reportedly little more than a minute, and her face remains largely unseen. She will appear briefly with Dorothy's famous companions: the Tin Man, the Scarecrow, and the Cowardly Lion.
Fan Reaction and a Family Defence
The revelation sparked immediate discussion online. TikTok user Howell Davies called the casting "a flex," noting in a video, "What a flex to say you are THEE Dorothy Gale." He highlighted the surprise, pointing out that Bethany's Instagram following was a modest 1,000 followers before the news broke.
However, the narrative that she is an unknown was quickly challenged. One fan, claiming to be her cousin, rushed to her defence in the comments, writing, "She isn't just a pilates teacher though, she has been on the West End and Broadway for years and is incredibly talented." Other supporters expressed their pride, with one adding, "We are all so proud of her."
A Blockbuster Sequel's Plot
Wicked: For Good serves as the sequel to last year's box office phenomenon, which earned over £660 million ($750 million) worldwide. The film continues the story with Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, now known as the Wicked Witch of the West, living as a fugitive. Ariana Grande returns as Glinda the Good, a public figure residing in the Emerald City's palace.
The plot sees their friendship tested by a series of new events, culminating in the surprising arrival of Dorothy Gale from Kansas, a moment that promises to change the Land of Oz forever. While Bethany Weaver's role may be brief, she is now forever part of cinematic history as the new Dorothy.
