'Wicked' Returns to Your Screen: Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande Headline a Spellbinding Two Hour TV Event Special

Get ready to defy gravity once again, because Broadway’s greenest duo is about to light up your TV. On November 6, NBC is bringing fans an exclusive two hour Wicked event special featuring none other than Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, and we are not emotionally prepared. This is not just a casual behind the scenes featurette or a puff promo piece. This is a full blown musical showcase packed with performances from the hit Wicked movie, surprise appearances from the star studded cast, and maybe even a little something something from the upcoming sequel Wicked For Good. Yes, we said sequel. Try to stay calm.

You’re a lifelong Wicked fanatic who has memorized every riff of Defying Gravity or a recent convert thanks to the 2024 film, this event is your chance to relive the magic and maybe sneak a peek at what’s next. And because NBC knows we all have commitment issues, the special will be streaming on Peacock the very next day. You’re welcome.

Let’s break down everything you need to know about this must watch Wicked celebration.

What is the Wicked TV Event Special?

The Wicked TV special is NBC’s pre-sequel gift to fans. Set to air on Thursday November 6 at 8/7c, the two hour event will be part concert, part behind the scenes extravaganza, and part heartstring tugging nostalgia trip. Think of it as Wicked’s answer to the Super Bowl halftime show, except with more glitter and flying broomsticks.

Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande will be reprising their roles as Elphaba and Glinda, joined by their equally dazzling co stars including Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, and Marissa Bode. The event promises live performances of songs from the first Wicked movie, and just maybe a preview of new music from the hotly anticipated sequel Wicked For Good, which hits theaters on November 21.

NBC also teased that surprise guests will be popping up. Translation: we are all silently hoping for Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth to make a dramatic entrance.

Performances You Won’t Want to Miss

While the full setlist is still under wraps, expect the big hits. You’re almost guaranteed to hear Defying Gravity, Popular, For Good, and maybe even a reimagined duet or two. With Cynthia Erivo’s jaw dropping vocals and Ariana Grande’s pop sparkle, these performances are going to be a masterclass in how to serve musical theater realness on screen.

Bonus: NBC is known for pulling out all the stops with event programming like this. Think Broadway lighting meets cinematic flair with just enough live TV chaos to keep things interesting.

How to Watch the Wicked Special

You can catch the Wicked two hour special live on NBC on Thursday November 6 at 8/7c. If you have cut the cord or just prefer watching on your own schedule, it will be available to stream the very next day on Peacock.

That means you can rewatch Ariana’s Glinda twirls and Cynthia’s spellbinding high notes as many times as you want. No judgment.

Will We See a Teaser for Wicked For Good?

While NBC is keeping details under tight wraps, the promo language did drop some juicy hints. Expect a sneak peek or early performance from the sequel, which means fans might get their first taste of new music or scenes from Wicked For Good. The sequel is already one of the most talked about films of 2025, and this special is clearly the opening act.

If you’re wondering whether we’ll get a new villain, fresh plot twists, or more backstory on Elphaba’s rise and Glinda’s glow up, this event might give us some clues.

So mark your calendar for November 6, stock up on emerald green snacks, and maybe warm up your vocal cords. This event is one fans won’t want to miss.

Are you excited for the Wicked special? Planning a watch party? Let us know in the comments and tell us which song you hope makes the cut.