Jon M. Chu Spills the Tea About New Songs and Love Triangle in “Wicked Part 2”

Jon M. Chu, acclaimed for his work on inclusive film adaptations, recently spoke candidly about his approach to “Wicked Part 2,” the much-anticipated sequel to the hit musical film. Scheduled for release in late 2025, “Wicked Part 2” will see the return of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande in their magical roles, with new layers of storytelling promised for audiences worldwide. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Chu admitted that he was “not sure” about the inclusion of two original songs in the sequel at first, underscoring his commitment to maintaining the emotional resonance that has defined the franchise’s musical legacy. Even after recording and inserting the new tracks, Chu and his creative team rigorously evaluated their impact, ensuring each song justified its place in the narrative and contributed to character development .

Chu explained, “Even after we recorded them, even after we put them in the movie, we kicked the tires on them to make sure that we had to put them in this movie. Otherwise, it wasn’t worth it.” This careful consideration reflects a broader trend in contemporary musical adaptations, where original songs are not simply filler but vehicles for deeper emotional engagement. For queer audiences, whose stories are often mediated through subtext and allegory in mainstream musicals, meaningful musical moments can be transformative—providing representation and voice in a genre that has long resonated with queer communities .

In addition to new musical content, Chu has hinted at a more complex exploration of the love triangle between Elphaba, Glinda, and Fiyero. While the source material has traditionally centered on the friendship and romantic tensions between these characters, fans and critics alike have speculated about the potential for deeper and more inclusive storytelling in the cinematic adaptation. The love triangle in “Wicked” has long been interpreted through a queer lens, with Elphaba and Glinda’s bond representing a form of queer friendship and chosen family—a theme that resonates strongly with audiences seeking affirmation of diverse identities .

The “Wicked” franchise’s popularity within queer communities is rooted not only in its camp sensibility and powerful female leads but also in its subversive narratives about otherness, acceptance, and challenging societal norms. Chu’s careful approach to new material signals respect for these themes, suggesting that any expansion of the love triangle will honor the story’s tradition of celebrating difference and the search for belonging .

While official details about the script and musical numbers remain under wraps, queer organizations and media outlets have voiced hopes that “Wicked Part 2” will continue the franchise’s legacy of symbolic representation. Past adaptations and fan interpretations have positioned Elphaba and Glinda as icons for queer self-discovery and empowerment, with the original Broadway and film cast members often expressing support for the community at public events and through social media .

The addition of new songs, if thoughtfully executed, could provide further opportunities for affirming queer perspectives and experiences. Many in the community have called for explicit inclusion—not just allegory—through character arcs and storytelling choices that reflect the realities of queer and transgender people. Chu’s past filmography, which includes “In the Heights” and “Crazy Rich Asians,” has demonstrated a commitment to nuanced portrayals of marginalized identities, raising expectations that “Wicked Part 2” will meet or exceed contemporary standards for representation and inclusivity