Daughter of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ Star Praises Jon M. Chu’s New Film ‘Wicked’

Liza Minnelli, the daughter of the iconic star of ‘The Wizard of Oz,’ Judy Garland, has expressed her admiration for Jon M. Chu‘s latest film adaptation of the Broadway musical ‘Wicked.’ Pleased with the director’s work, Minnelli took to social media to share a glowing review, highlighting the film’s aesthetic appeal and emotional depth.

«I told the genius Director Jon Chu,» wrote Minnelli, 71, «that he had picked up the torch, the broom, and the wand, and carried it forward; and thanked him for adding to the family.» She praised the film as «breathtaking to look at» and «everything I wanted it to be.»

Judy Garland, Minnelli’s mother, famously portrayed Dorothy in the 1939 classic adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,’ a film that remains a significant cultural touchstone. Garland’s role alongside Billie Burke as Glinda the Good Witch and Margaret Hamilton as the Wicked Witch of the West is revered in cinematic history.

The new film ‘Wicked,’ described by Minnelli as «astonishing,» stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, the Wicked Witch, and Ariana Grande as Glinda, roles that have been met with critical acclaim. «Cynthia and Ariana are nothing short of magnificent!» Minnelli remarked, praising their performances for being both «emotionally stirring and vocally astonishing.»

She noted that ‘Wicked’ captures the magic and joy of the original story while adding new layers of love and respect. «It’s a lot of fun, and done with a great deal of love and respect for the original,» Minnelli stated, urging viewers to experience «the journey of the witches.»

‘Wicked: Part One’ is set to premiere in theaters on November 22, and will be followed by ‘Part Two’ in 2025. This film series is adapted by Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox, featuring an ensemble cast including Jonathan Bailey as the Wizard, Marissa Bode as Nessarose, and Jeff Goldblum as the voice of Dr. Dillamond.

Judy Garland’s legacy continues to resonate with audiences today. Her children, from her marriages to Vincente Minnelli and producer Sidney Luft, often reflect on her profound impact. In a 2022 interview with Entertainment Tonight, Minnelli emphasized the resilience and humor that characterized her mother’s life, traits that continue to inspire her family.