Last night’s Wicked: One Wonderful Night special dazzled fans with show-stopping performances and nostalgic reunions—but the best moments happened off-camera. From technical challenges to unscripted bloopers, here are nine behind-the-scenes secrets you missed during the broadcast.
1. ‘Defying Gravity’ Required Multiple Takes
Cynthia Erivo’s soaring performance as Elphaba looked effortless, but perfecting the flying sequence and lighting took several tries. Insiders praised Erivo’s professionalism, noting she delivered powerhouse vocals in every take.
2. Ariana Grande and Kristin Chenoweth’s Tearful Reunion
Ariana Grande (Glinda in Wicked’s 15th-anniversary special) surprised Kristin Chenoweth backstage. Their emotional hug, where Grande called Chenoweth her “idol,” wasn’t aired—but witnesses say it was unforgettable.
3. Idina Menzel’s Secret Warm-Up Ritual
Minutes before performing The Wizard and I, Idina Menzel was spotted doing intense vocal exercises. A crew member laughed, “Even Broadway legends need last-minute prep!”
4. The Missing Hairbrush Panic
During Popular, Glinda’s hairbrush prop vanished backstage. A quick-thinking crew member swapped in a replacement—but the cast couldn’t stop giggling about it afterward.
5. Stephen Schwartz’s Private Piano Medley
Composer Stephen Schwartz played a surprise Wicked mashup for the crew before filming For Good. Attendees called it a “magical, unrepeatable moment.”
6. A Hidden Nod to the Original Cast
A framed photo of the original Broadway cast was placed backstage as a tribute. Though not shown on TV, insiders say it moved returning stars to tears.
7. Joel Grey’s Unscripted Wizard Lines
Original Wizard Joel Grey ad-libbed jokes between takes of Wonderful, leaving the cast in stitches. The final broadcast used a more polished version.
8. The Edited-Out Standing Ovation for Cynthia Erivo
Erivo’s Defying Gravity earned a roaring standing ovation so long that producers trimmed it for time. “The energy was electric,” said an audience member.
9. The Post-Show Dance Party
After filming, the cast and crew celebrated with a spontaneous dance party to Dancing Through Life—orchestra members included!
Why These Moments Matter
The unseen bloopers, reunions, and tributes prove Wicked’s magic extends far beyond the stage. Did you watch the special? Share your favorite moment below!
— NextMinuteNews
