Colman Domingo Cast as Cowardly Lion in ‘Wicked: For Good’

LOS ANGELES, CA — American actor and playwright Colman Domingo has been cast as the Cowardly Lion in the upcoming film ‘Wicked: For Good,’ a highly anticipated sequel to the Broadway hit. The announcement was shared on the film’s official Instagram account on Monday, featuring a video of Domingo surrounded by plush lion toys. The clip concludes with him saying, ‘See you in Oz.’

Director Jon M. Chu stirred excitement earlier last week by hinting at a major Hollywood star voicing the iconic role. Domingo joins a star-studded cast, which includes Ariana Grande as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba. Other cast members include Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Bowen Yang, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum.

Chu revealed that he contacted Domingo via Instagram. He recalled saying, ‘It’s not a ton of lines, but maybe you have a little time. I know you’re busy. I’ll come to you.’ Domingo replied, ‘Why the f— not. Let’s go,’ marking the start of their collaboration.

Domingo has earned notable acclaim, having received multiple Academy Award nominations and a Primetime Emmy Award. In 2024, he was named one of Time Magazine’s most influential people.

Buzz around ‘Wicked: For Good’ has been building since the first film was released in November 2024 to critical and commercial success. The sequel will continue the story of Elphaba and Glinda, focusing on their diverging paths in the land of Oz following the conclusion of the first film.

The trailer for the sequel, released in June, hints at a broader role for Dorothy, depicting her journey with the Lion, Tin Man, and Scarecrow down the Yellow Brick Road. The films were adapted from Gregory Maguire’s novel and have been produced at Sky Studios Elstree in the United Kingdom.

‘Wicked: For Good’ is scheduled for release in theaters on November 21, 2025, nearly a year after its predecessor.