Wicked: For Good has officially become Fandango’s biggest PG-rated presale ever. The Jon M. Chu-directed sequel arrives in theaters on November 21. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande are earning universal praise from critics worldwide. This second chapter is also the highest ticket pre-seller of 2025 across all ratings.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- Fandango’s biggest PG-rated pre-seller of all time in company history.
- Tickets went on sale on October 8, breaking records immediately.
- Exceeded previous record holders Beauty and the Beast and Frozen 2.
- 160-minute runtime with new songs written specifically for this installment.
- Exclusively streaming on Prime Video after theatrical run ends.
Box Office Breaks Records at Record Speed
The presale phenomenon shocked industry observers who closely track advance ticket sales. Universal Pictures confirmed that Wicked: For Good shattered presale benchmarks set by past blockbusters. Tickets became the best overall advance seller for the entire 2025 calendar year across every rating category.
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The previous PG-rated record holders fell decisively. Beauty and the Beast earned $174.7 million domestically in 2017. Frozen 2 brought in $130.2 million in 2019. The current Wicked installment surpassed both films at identical sales cycle stages. Industry analysts now project an opening weekend exceeding initial tracking estimates.
“With fans shattering records on Fandango when tickets first went on sale for Wicked: For Good, it was clear that this electrifying finale to the worldwide sensation would soar to the same heights as the first film.”
Critical Acclaim for Leading Ladies
Critics have universally praised the performances of both Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. Multiple outlets describe their work as a “masterpiece” and a “tour de force.” Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba continues to captivate audiences, while Grande’s Glinda reportedly reaches new dramatic heights in part two.
Variety reported that critics described Grande’s performance as “magnificent” and a true showstopper. The actress reportedly takes her role to the next level in this continuation. Multiple reviewers highlighted the film as proof that this story needed two separate theatrical releases. The chemistry between the leads remains the film’s strongest element.
Film Details & Streaming Information
Director Jon M. Chu returns to helm the sequel with expanded scope and new musical numbers. The film runs 160 minutes and carries a PG rating. A stellar supporting cast includes Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, and Bowen Yang alongside the leads.
| Title | Wicked: For Good |
| Release Date | November 21, 2025 (Theaters) |
| Director | Jon M. Chu |
| Runtime | 160 minutes |
| Rating | PG |
| Main Cast | Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, Bowen Yang |
| Where to Watch | Theatrical release now; Prime Video (coming later) |
The film will eventually stream on Amazon Prime Video with a subscription. Specific streaming dates have not been announced yet. Universal typically holds theatrical exclusivity for 45 days before releasing films to streaming partners. The first Wicked maintained strong theatrical runs across multiple weeks.
What’s Next for Audiences
- Opening weekend box office projections have been updated following presale records.
- Multiple awards campaigns are expected for both lead performances.
- The soundtrack album releases November 21 alongside the film’s theatrical debut.
- International releases follow with staggered dates across markets.
- Extended theatrical runs could continue into holiday season through December.
Fans are anticipating emotional moments from this “final chapter.” The film marks the conclusion to the theatrical adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical.
Will Box Office Records Continue to Fall?
The presale momentum suggests a monumental opening weekend is coming. The first Wicked opened to $112.5 million domestically in late 2024, breaking records for Broadway musical adaptations. Can part two exceed that benchmark?
Early projections suggest Wicked: For Good could open in the $115-$130 million range. Some industry analysts predict even higher numbers given the presale records. Female-skewing blockbusters sometimes experience front-loaded sales, making ticket sales important but not predictive of exact opening.
The 1989 The Taylor Swift Experience and Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle both shattered presales this year. Yet Wicked: For Good has surpassed all of them at matching points in the sales cycle. The sequel officially arrives in theaters on Friday, November 21. Are you ready to return to Oz for this emotional finale?
Sources
- Deadline Hollywood – Presale records and box office projections
- Variety – Critical reception and first reactions
- Fandango – Official presale data and statements
Daniel Harris is a specialist journalist focused on the crossroads of breaking news, extraordinary history, and enduring legends. With a background in historical research and storytelling, he blends timely reporting with timeless narratives, making complex events and ancient myths resonate with today’s readers. Daniel’s work often uncovers surprising links between present-day headlines and legendary tales, offering unique perspectives that captivate diverse audiences. Beyond reporting, he is passionate about preserving oral traditions and exploring how extraordinary stories continue to shape culture and identity.