Wicked At-Home Release Breaks Records Amid Ongoing Gravity-Defying Theatrical Success

Wicked, the cinematic adaptation of the beloved stage musical, has achieved remarkable success in home viewership, setting new benchmarks in the industry. This film narrates the untold story of Elphaba (portrayed by Cynthia Erivo), who later becomes the Wicked Witch of the West, and her complex friendship with Glinda (played by Ariana Grande-Butera), the future Good Witch. Following its theatrical debut on the weekend preceding U.S. Thanksgiving in 2024, Wicked has grossed over $675 million worldwide, solidifying its status as the highest-grossing Broadway musical both across North America and globally.

According to a report by Deadline, Wicked’s at-home release, which launched on December 31, 2024, generated an impressive $70 million in its first full week. Notably, it garnered $26 million on its opening day alone, marking a record for both Universal and at-home releases. This staggering accomplishment ensures that it has outperformed the previous high-holder, the Super Mario Bros. Movie, which saw far lower earnings in comparison on its debut day. Currently, viewers can purchase the film for $30 or rent it for $20.

Impact of Success on Wicked

The At-Home Release’s Potential for Ongoing Success

With such a record-breaking debut in home viewership, Wicked is poised for continued momentum. The film’s opening day at home captured 56% of its domestic box office opening day figures. When taking into account preview earnings, the total gross for Friday, November 22, 2024, reached $46.2 million, which reflects the film’s strong reception, nearly matching its theatrical box office success. This performance notably surpasses that of the previous Universal winner, which earned only around 40% of its theatrical day one gross.

As the awards season heats up, Wicked is likely to maintain and even enhance its visibility. The film garnered the award for Cinematic and Box Office Achievement at the 2025 Golden Globes and has received an impressive 11 nominations for the Critics’ Choice Awards, along with five nominations from the Screen Actors Guild. Furthermore, it has been shortlisted in four Oscar categories, and any potential nominations in these categories could amplify interest and attract both new and returning audiences.

Analysis of the New Viewership Record for Wicked

Potential for Significant At-Home Profits

Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba singing The Wizard and I in Wicked

While it’s yet to be determined if Wicked‘s at-home release can sustain its rapid growth akin to its theatrical counterpart, the film stands a good chance as it transitions from cinemas into homes, which might prompt wider audiences to engage with the film. If the current trajectory continues, the at-home version could generate around $250 million in rentals and purchases before its scheduled streaming launch on Peacock in approximately two and a half months, adding significantly to its theatrical success.

Source: Deadline

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