Kristin Chenoweth Just Shut Down a Controversial 'Wicked' Boycott
Kristin Chenoweth, renowned for originating the role of Glinda in the Broadway production of "Wicked," has recently stood up to defend the musical's film adaptation. A conservative group called One Million Moms has allegedly launched a boycott against the movie, accusing it of promoting "wokeness," as reported by PEOPLE. Chenoweth, a vocal advocate for the story's themes of friendship and acceptance, has publicly dismissed the criticism.
The Controversy Surrounding 'Wicked'
The boycott emerged from One Million Moms, a subgroup of the American Family Association, which claimed the movie is unsuitable for children due to its depictions of magic and LGBTQ+ representation. In a widely circulated petition, the group said, "Of course, the musical contains a tremendous amount of witchcraft and sorcery ... But the film also shows not-so-discrete crossdressing and men crushing on men, which parents may not expect," as reported by PEOPLE.
The group criticized the film's portrayal of same-sex relationships and accused it of promoting a political agenda, describing it as overly dark and inappropriate for family audiences saying, "Instead of an uplifting Broadway musical about friendship and family, talents and resources were used to create a dark movie that also pushes wokeness," as reported by PEOPLE.
The petition called attention to the lives of cast members and the creative choices of the adaptation, saying "Four of the film's main characters are openly queer or gay in real life, or at the minimum, these actors have spoken about their queer experiences," as reported by BuzzFeed.
Kristin Chenoweth Responds
Chenoweth addressed the controversy in a comment on an Instagram post by Out Magazine saying, "Everyone knows the 'one million Moms' are a mere few hundred. Maybe. It's called entertainment. Artistry. I am a Christian woman [who] originated the role of Glinda and all the silliness that these women spew out of hate. No no no. I can't help it : i try to love em anyways. For they don't get it," as reported by BuzzFeed.
As a Christian and a longtime advocate for inclusivity, Chenoweth highlighted the film's potential to inspire audiences with its themes of love, resilience, and empowerment, saying in an Instagram reel, "The story is so wonderful, and Cynthia and Ariana are amazing. The whole cast is amazing ... I was so moved, emotional, happy, filled with joy. Please everybody go see Wicked, you'll be blessed," as reported by PEOPLE.
The Legacy of 'Wicked'
Since its Broadway debut in 2003, "Wicked" has become a global phenomenon, known for its powerful message of acceptance and the reimagining of the classic story of "The Wizard of Oz." The film adaptation, directed by Jon Chu, has carried this legacy forward with strong performances and stunning visuals, earning the adaptation praise for its faithfulness to the original production.
Cultural Relevance and Advocacy
The boycott has reignited broader debates about representation in media. Critics of the boycott argue that the inclusion of diverse characters and stories is essential to fostering empathy and understanding. The film, which stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, has maintained its focus on the enduring friendship between two women and the social challenges they face, themes that have resonated with audiences for decades.
A Call to Action
Despite the controversy, "Wicked" has continued to captivate audiences with its universal themes and captivating performances. Chenoweth's defense of the film shows its enduring power to unite rather than divide. As it continues to soar in theaters, "Wicked" serves as a reminder of the transformative power of storytelling and the magic of friendship.
References: Kristin Chenoweth Defends Wicked Against Conservative Group's Boycott | Kristin Chenoweth Is Being Praised for Calling Out Anti-Gay Moms | Warning: 'Wicked' Not Only Includes Witchcraft But Also LGBTQ Content!
