Cynthia Erivo is telling the story of Wicked in a brand-new way.
After starring as Elphaba in the two-part Wicked film adaptation, Erivo will narrate the upcoming audiobook edition of Gregory Maguire’s bestselling novel, Variety reports.
In a statement, Erivo expressed how thrilled she was to be a part of the project.
“I feel deeply connected to Elphaba. We have been on quite the journey together, and now I’m eager to begin an adventure with her whilst exploring the full world of ‘Wicked’ and its myriad of other characters in the audiobook,” Erivo said. “I’m looking forward to bringing this incredible story to life in a new way for listeners, and I hope it resonates as deeply with them as I know it will with me.”
Playing Elphaba, Erivo recalled that she didn’t get much sleep during filming. In preparation for her stunts, she was required to wake up early and had to have her makeup done before their 5 a.m. call time.
“I had never flown before. I just knew I wanted to,” Erivo said. “And that requires your core to be the strongest you could possibly be, because the wires will take you from one place to another.”
“No days were small,” she added. “There were no small days. None.”
The first Wicked film was nominated for two Oscars and a Golden Globe. The second film, Wicked: For Good, will debut Nov. 21, 2025.
The novel is set for release on July 1.