Shawn Mendes was cast in the lead role in the movie Wicked.

The upcoming Wicked movie adaptation, based on the beloved Broadway musical, has generated a lot of buzz for its star-studded cast. One name that was initially part of the excitement was Shawn Mendes. The Canadian singer-songwriter, known for hits like “Stitches” and “Señorita,” was considered for the role of Fiyero, the dashing love interest of Elphaba, the misunderstood witch of Oz.

Shawn Mendes Considered for Fiyero in Wicked Movie

According to multiple sources, director Stephen Daldry had envisioned a high-profile cast for Wicked. Initially, Lady Gaga was set to star as Elphaba, with Mendes in talks to play Fiyero. The two reportedly had discussions about the roles, and Mendes was considered a strong contender for the part of the charismatic prince.

However, things took a turn when Lady Gaga decided to prioritize her role in the Joker sequel, Joker: Folie à Deux, causing the Elphaba role to be recast. The role eventually went to Cynthia Erivo, which was met with great excitement by fans. As for Mendes, the Fiyero role was also recast, with Jonathan Bailey stepping in​

Recasting Decisions: From Gaga to Erivo

With Lady Gaga’s departure, fans were left wondering who could step into the iconic green shoes of Elvis. Cynthia Erivo, known for her powerhouse vocals and acting talent, was soon cast in the role, making waves in the industry. Erivo’s casting, along with Ariana Grande as Glinda and Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero, has solidified the cast as a dream team for this highly anticipated film​

The Buzz Around Wicked and Mendes’ Nearcast

Even though Shawn Mendes ultimately didn’t land the role, his near-casting further highlights the immense excitement surrounding Wicked. The movie adaptation, which is set to hit theaters in November 2024, promises to bring the magic of the Broadway stage to the big screen with a new generation of stars. Fans are eagerly awaiting the musical spectacle, with Mendes’ near-involvement adding to the allure of the project​

In conclusion, while Shawn Mendes won’t be appearing in the Wicked movie, the journey of casting has been as dynamic as the musical itself. With a talented cast now in place, fans can look forward to the movie bringing this classic tale to life in a whole new way.