The cinematic adaptation of Wicked has become a global sensation, grossing over $586 million since its release. However, its success hasn’t shielded it from backlash. A conservative Christian group, One Million Moms, has launched a boycott campaign against the film, accusing it of promoting LGBTQ+ “propaganda” and “witchcraft.”
The group, affiliated with the American Family Association, alleges that Wicked includes “crossdressing and men crushing on men” as part of an agenda to impose “wokeness” on families. While the petition has garnered some attention, its support appears minimal, with fewer than 14,000 signatures.
Kristin Chenoweth, who originated the role of Glinda in the Broadway production of Wicked, publicly dismissed the campaign. “Everyone knows the ‘one million Moms’ are a mere few hundred,” she stated. “It’s called entertainment. Artistry.” Chenoweth, who identifies as a Christian, emphasized that love and acceptance are central themes of the musical and its film adaptation.
The controversy highlights a familiar pattern: attacks on media with visible LGBTQ+ representation often follow their rise in mainstream popularity. Yet Wicked has long carried subtextual themes of acceptance, marginalization, and challenging societal norms — elements that resonate deeply with LGBTQ+ audiences.
For the LGBTQ+ community, Wicked isn’t just a musical; it’s a cultural touchstone. Its themes of identity, defiance, and self-acceptance mirror the lived experiences of many queer individuals. While right-wing campaigns aim to stifle such narratives, the film’s success signals an overwhelming rejection of such regressive ideologies.
In Chenoweth’s words, “If you want to see girl power, go see Wicked.” And the audiences are showing up in droves, ensuring that love and artistry prevail over intolerance.