To say that Wicked was a mere dazzling re-imagination of the world of Oz is nothing but an understatement. The yellow brick roads and a soaring score by Stephen Schwartz, Wicked explored identity, morality, and the danger of a single narrative with a stellar cast. And now, as Ariana Grande basks in Oscar buzz for her dazzling turn as Glinda, another star’s journey to Oz was marked by a much quieter heartbreak- Amanda Seyfried, who once dreamed of donning Glinda’s crown. 

Recently, Amanda Seyfried opened up about her greater struggle just for prepping for the role, a role she chased with fierce determination, only to watch it slip away.

In the recent episode of Backstage’s In the Envelope podcast, Amanda Seyfried revealed the emotional rollercoaster she experienced while auditioning for the role of Glinda for Wicked. Seyfried shared that she auditioned six times, each attempt filled with hope and determination. Seyfried confessed, “I’ve been working diligently on the music for years, really getting ready for this. It’s been a huge part of my life.” Despite her dedication, the role ultimately went to Ariana Grande, leaving Seyfried openly emotional about the outcome. 

Amanda Seyfried's loss was Ariana Grande's win. So much so that Grande's performance was recognized with an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Reflecting on the outcome, Amanda Seyfried expressed genuine admiration for Ariana Grande. Seyfried noted that the film’s grand, spectacular style perfectly suited Grande’s strengths, and her children have become fans of the movie’s soundtrack, supporting her belief that the casting worked out as it was meant to be. While Seyfried lost her chance at being Glinda, she was not the only sailor in the sea.

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A galaxy of hopefuls set their sights on Oz, each dreaming of a place in the spotlight. Wicked’s casting drew a star-studded lineup, each with their hopes and heartbreaks.

Amanda Seyfried was far from alone in her quest for a role in Wicked. The casting process drew a group of celebrities, each with their own stories of hope and heartbreak. While Renée Rapp tried out Glinda as she confessed on Watch What Happens Live, Dove Cameron could not make it past the auditions despite her rendition of Annie Golden's 'How Can I Lose You?,' despite it being the longest process for the actress as she described to The Wrap. 

The competition for Fiyero was equally fierce, with both Nick and Joe Jonas auditioning against each other, hoping at least one Jonas Brothers would make it through, but neither did. As the sequel gears up for a release later this year on November 21, 2025, Wicked acts as a reminder of how heroes and villains are often a matter of perspective, and the path to greatness is rarely a straight shot down the yellow brick road. While only a handful made it to Oz, Amanda Seyfried’s candid revelations remind us that even in the land of glitter, for every role that takes flight, another quietly fades into the wings.

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What do you think about Amanda Seyfried's revelations about her preparing for Glinda? Let us know in the comments below.