Wicked: part two faces oscar 2026 snubs as critics’ favorite misses key nominations, contrasting part one’s triumph
“Wicked: Part 2” has notably been excluded from the list of nominees for the 2026 Academy Awards. The anticipated sequel, a continuation of John M. Chu’s adaptation of the iconic Broadway musical, failed to secure any nods from the Academy.
This outcome marks a sharp contrast to its predecessor. “Wicked: Part 1” garnered significant recognition, earning nominations in ten categories at the 2025 Oscars, establishing a high benchmark for the two-part saga.
The absence of the second installment from the 98th annual event comes as a surprise to many, particularly given earlier predictions by specialized critics who had high hopes for its awards potential.
Divergent critical reception for the sequel
The reception for “Wicked: Part 2” was markedly more divisive compared to the first film, a factor that appears to have influenced its awards trajectory. Critics’ opinions were split, reflecting a broader range of responses from the audience.
On Rotten Tomatoes, a prominent aggregator of film reviews, “Wicked: Part 2” achieved an approval rating of 66%. This figure stands in stark contrast to the robust 88% garnered by the inaugural installment, highlighting a notable shift in critical consensus.
This significant difference in critical sentiment between the two films likely played a pivotal role in the sequel’s inability to translate initial buzz into actual Oscar nominations for the upcoming ceremony.
Unexpected snubs for key acting and design
Leading up to the 2026 nominations, many industry observers and film critics had strongly considered “Wicked: Part 2” for recognition in several prominent categories, especially highlighting its acting talent and visual artistry. Specific mentions frequently pointed towards:
* Best Supporting Actress for Ariana Grande, whose portrayal of Glinda had captivated early viewers and was often cited for its impact.
* Best Actress for Cynthia Erivo, lauded for her powerful performance as Elphaba, which many felt showcased her exceptional vocal and dramatic range, making it Oscar-worthy.
* Best Costume Design, acknowledging the film’s elaborate and imaginative wardrobe that vividly brought the fantastical world of Oz to life with intricate detail.
Despite these strong critical endorsements and the notable performances, the Academy ultimately chose to bypass the film in these, and all other, categories, leading to its complete exclusion from the ceremony’s competitive fields.
Wicked: part one’s acclaimed 2025 academy run
The first “Wicked” film skillfully introduced the complex origin story of Oz’s iconic witches, Glinda and Elphaba, exploring their initial encounters and the pivotal moments that shaped their divergent destinies. The adaptation was praised for its immersive world-building and faithful yet innovative take on the source material.
Its impressive haul of ten Oscar nominations in 2025 underscored its artistic and technical achievements, from visual effects to musical score, setting an exceptionally high standard and building considerable anticipation for the narrative’s continuation. This early success positioned the sequel for expected awards contention.
The evolving narrative of elphaba and glinda
The second installment of the “Wicked” saga progresses into a more profound exploration of its central characters, detailing a journey of intense self-discovery for both Glinda and Elphaba as they navigate their fated paths. Director John M. Chu emphasized this evolution, stating, “It’s a more mature and emotional journey. It’s about Elphaba and Glinda trying to find a way to be together again,” underscoring the deeper emotional complexities woven into the sequel’s storyline and its character development beyond the initial setup.
Deeper ties to the land of oz mythology
“Wicked: Part 2” further solidifies its intricate ties to the classic narrative of “The Wizard of Oz,” expanding on the untold stories and motivations behind its beloved figures. It aims to provide a richer understanding of the world established in L. Frank Baum’s original works.
The film explores new facets of the interconnected world of Oz, enriching the backstory and context that underpin the familiar tale of Dorothy and her companions. This approach offers both new insights and a sense of continuity for long-time fans of the universe.
This continuation provides audiences with a fresh perspective on the lore, revealing how the events preceding “The Wizard of Oz” fundamentally shaped its iconic characters and their roles, particularly focusing on the origins of the Wicked Witch of the West.
By deepening these connections, the sequel aims to offer a more comprehensive understanding of the fantastical realm and its enduring legacy in popular culture, adding layers to a well-known story.
Looking ahead to the 2026 oscars
The 98th Academy Awards ceremony in 2026 will proceed without the anticipated presence of “Wicked: Part 2,” marking a significant moment for the musical film genre as other contenders vie for top honors across various categories.
