I Knew The Wicked Audition Process Was Intense, But That Feeling Has Been Amplified After Learning How Many Times Amanda Seyfried Tried Out

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Discovering the ideal cast for the stage musical Wicked wasn’t a decision to be made casually. Given its popularity on Broadway, Jon M. Chu’s upcoming movie (available with a Peacock subscription) marks the first time we will witness Elphaba, Glinda, and other Oz residents grace the big screen. I was aware that the audition process for the musical film would be rigorous, but I hadn’t fully grasped the extent until Amanda Seyfried shared her multiple attempts.

In the “In the Envelope” podcast by Backstage, Amanda Seyfried discussed receiving multiple chances to audition for film musical roles. Given her exceptional singing abilities showcased in “Mamma Mia!”, it’s no surprise that studios were eager to utilize this talented actress. Seyfried had to audition for the role of Cosette in “Les Misérables” on six different occasions, and she also went through multiple auditions for Jon M. Chu’s “Wicked”.

I find myself in a fortunate position where auditions aren’t necessary for me. However, I did audition six times for the musical Wicked because I felt it was crucial to get it just right. I adored the experience, even though my schedule was packed, and I barely had time for it, I managed to make it work. I put in countless hours of hard work over the years on that music.

Six auditions can be quite a lot for one movie. Just like Amanda Seyfried, Dove Cameron, Taylor Louderman, and Renee Rapp were all vying for the role of Glinda. I wonder how intense their auditioning experience must have been.

It’s no wonder that Amanda Seyfried put in years of effort to master the songs for “Wicked,” given her commitment as an actress in films like “Jennifer’s Body.” Yet, her singing voice is so polished that it seems nearly effortless.

In a viral video, Emmy-winning actress Amanda Seyfried showcased her ability to beautifully hit Glinda’s high notes when singing “Popular.” Although it’s Ariana Grande who would undoubtedly shine as Glinda in the Academy Award-nominated movie, I firmly believe that Seyfried could have also made a fantastic Glinda. Her portrayal of Shiz University student’s bubbly charm would have been captivating. Fortunately, for her audition, she got to sing with Cynthia Erivo, who played Elphaba.

Auditions require careful preparation, especially for a well-known character like Glinda. It’s crucial to put in your best effort musically and emotionally. Rest assured, Amanda Seyfried took great care to emphasize her commitment to delivering top performance during her audition, informing Backstage about her dedication.

I’m competitive with myself in a really healthy way, I think.

When it comes to taking on new challenges, I find myself sharing a common sentiment – I’d rather not dive in unless I can give it my all. Ariana Grande showcased this same determination during her audition for Wicked. As a Nickelodeon alumna who later flourished as a pop star, Grande admitted that landing the role required significant dedication to prove she was worthy.

I can imagine both Grande and Amanda Seyfried would agree that treading the yellow brick road wasn’t an easy journey.

It’s clearer than ever to me that the casting for Wicked was meticulous, given that Seyfried auditioned for Glinda no less than six times. Although Grande ultimately secured the role, I remain optimistic that we’ll see Seyfried in a future musical film. Perhaps there will be a third installment of Mamma Mia? And if a biopic about singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell ever comes to fruition, I can still envision Seyfried in the role.

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2025-06-28 00:07