Ariana Grande Reflects on Darker Hair as a Fresh Look for Wicked Sequel

Ariana Grande has explained that her new brunette hair color is a personal choice to explore a different vibe rather than a farewell to her Wicked character Glinda. While resuming her role as the Good Witch of the North in Wicked: For Good, Grande swapped her iconic blonde locks for a darker shade, a transformation that thrilled fans on social media. The production in Leicester Square showcased Wicked-inspired decor as the cast prepared for the film’s continuation, which picks up after Glinda and Elphaba part ways. Cynthia Erivo returns as Elphaba, with Michelle Yeoh, Jonathan Bailey, and Jeff Goldblum among the returning cast. Bailey, who plays Prince Fiyero, joked about being named People’s Sexiest Man Alive and teased potential future appearances on Celebrity Traitors. Grande stated that the change in hair color aligns with the darker aesthetic of the second movie, including clothing and styling choices, and should not be interpreted as a goodbye to Glinda. The Wicked films were adapted from the Broadway and West End musical, with the second installment released on 21 November. Filming occurred at Sky Studios Elstree in Hertfordshire between late 2022 and early 2024, interrupted by a Hollywood actors’ strike. Wicked: For Good reportedly features two new songs, expanding on the franchise’s musical repertoire. The first film’s length nearly matched the stage show, while the sequel is slightly shorter. The project marks a continued collaboration between Grande and Erivo, who also performed a Wicked medley to open the Academy Awards. PA Media contributed reporting.