Michelle Yeoh Voices Disappointment Over 'Wicked: For Good' Oscar Exclusion
Academy Award-winning actress Michelle Yeoh has openly expressed her shock and dismay after Wicked: For Good, the second part of the film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, failed to secure a single nomination at this year's Oscars. In an interview with Variety published on Thursday, Yeoh admitted she was still reeling from the news, stating, "I'm not surprised. I am in shock! I really am."
Yeoh's Candid Reaction to the Snub
Yeoh, who won an Oscar in 2023 for her role in Everything Everywhere All at Once, speculated that the Academy might have overlooked Wicked: For Good due to a perception that the first film had already received ample recognition. "I think sometimes the problem is that people think, 'Oh, you already got so much with the first one, let other people have a chance.' But then it feels like, 'No, come on!' It's such a beautiful, well-made movie," she told the outlet.
In the films, Yeoh portrays Madame Morrible, a mentor who becomes an antagonist to the rival witches Glinda, played by Ariana Grande, and Elphaba, played by Cynthia Erivo. The first installment, Wicked, was released in 2024 to critical acclaim and became a holiday season blockbuster, earning ten Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, and winning for Best Costume Design and Best Production Design.
Contrasting Fortunes for the 'Wicked' Franchise
Many had anticipated that the stars of Wicked: For Good would be honored by the Academy, especially given the success of its predecessor. However, when the second film hit theaters last fall, it received mixed reviews, with some critics noting that it failed to address flaws from the stage version's second act. Despite this, fans have expressed dismay at its absence from the Oscar contenders, particularly for Grande, whose character Glinda takes center stage in the sequel.
Yeoh did not name specific nominated films but emphasized her belief in the quality of Wicked: For Good. "If you compare it [with contenders this year], it should be there," she asserted. "It's not the replica of the first one. It's more elaborate and there are many more new destinations in 'Wicked: For Good.' So I was truly, truly very disappointed."
Yeoh's Continued Success Amid the Disappointment
Despite the Oscar snub, Yeoh's career continues to flourish. On the same day as her Variety interview, she was honored with the Golden Bear Award for career achievement at the Berlin International Film Festival in Germany. Additionally, she is set to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame next week, underscoring her enduring impact in the entertainment industry.
The situation highlights the unpredictable nature of awards season, where critical and commercial success does not always translate to Academy recognition. As Yeoh navigates this disappointment, her advocacy for Wicked: For Good reflects her passion for the project and her commitment to celebrating cinematic excellence.
