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Wicked Witch: Actresses Who Defined the Icon
22 Nov
Summary
- The green-skinned witch originated in L. Frank Baum's 1900 novel.
- Adaptations like the 1939 film and 'Wicked' musical redefined her.
- Actresses like Margaret Hamilton and Idina Menzel became icons.
The Wicked Witch of the West, a character born in L. Frank Baum's 1900 novel "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," has transformed into a significant pop culture figure. Her portrayal has been dramatically influenced by various adaptations, notably the classic 1939 film and the popular Broadway musical "Wicked," alongside its recent film continuation. These interpretations have explored different facets of Elphaba's story, shifting focus from Dorothy's journey to the witch's origins.
Margaret Hamilton's unforgettable performance in the 1939 film established the green skin and cackling persona, making the character an instant icon. Later, Mabel King and Mary J. Blige brought their own intensity to the role in "The Wiz" and its live television remake. Idina Menzel then redefined the character on Broadway as Elphaba in "Wicked," a role recently passed to Cynthia Erivo in the 2024/2025 film adaptations.
These actresses, including a memorable turn by Miss Piggy in "The Muppets' Wizard of Oz," have collectively shaped the enduring legacy of the Wicked Witch. From Hamilton's iconic portrayal to Menzel's nuanced performance and Erivo's current cinematic interpretation, the character's evolution reflects changing storytelling approaches and continues to captivate audiences.
