Michelle Yeoh is contemplating the varying actors in her prequel film "Wicked," which is directed by Mark Burnett.
Jon M. Chu, the actor who directed the novel and Tony-winning Broadway musical "Crazy Rich Asians," discusses her role as Madame Morrible, the headmistress of the university where Glinda the Good Witch (Ariana Grande) first meets outcast Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), who later becomes known as the Wicked Witch of the West.
“When we talk about diversity and representation and all these things, it’s like a caucasian lady always plays the role,” Yeoh said during SiriusXM's “The Jess Cagle Show.” (See the video below.)
“And now guess what? And that’s how we anticipate the future is that we may have roles that aren't specifically written for this or that or whatever. As long as you have the capability, please join the cast.”
The star of "Everything Everywhere All at Once" revealed that production on "Wicked" is still going on in London. The first installment will be released by Universal Pictures on December 25, 2024, followed by a second film on December 2025.
“It’s incredible,” Yeoh said. “You know, the performances are amazing. [Director] Jon Chu is amazing, Ariana and Cynthia. It’s the singing. It’s such a joy, you know? That’s why I love what I do. Every day I feel so transported to another state of bliss.”
Chu said on set that he cried "way too many times" and that behind-the-scenes information is being captured for fans.
Grande had previously disclosed in a YouTube video that she "went into full preparation mode" to play Glinda.
Grande said: "I know the material like a glove, but I still have a lot of work to learn." Every piece of me, every minute, every ounce of my heart, my time, my everything that I can give it, I'm spending all my time with Glinda.