Director Jon M. Chu recently missed the premiere of the movie “Wicked” in Los Angeles for a very special reason. He took to his Instagram Stories to announce the arrival of his fifth child with his wife, Kristin Hodge. Chu expressed his disbelief that the birth coincided with the movie premiere, calling it a wonderful occurrence. He shared a heartwarming photo of Hodge cradling their newborn daughter, welcoming her to the world and assuring her that she has a lot of witches on her side.
“Wicked” features singer Ariana Grande and actress Cynthia Erivo in the lead roles of Glinda and Elphaba, respectively. The film is a two-part cinematic adaptation of the popular Broadway musical, serving as a prequel to “The Wizard of Oz” and offering an alternative version of events in the land of Oz before Dorothy’s arrival.
Although Chu couldn’t be present at the premiere, his presence was felt through a video message played inside the theater before the screening. In the video, Chu expressed his excitement about sharing the movie with the audience after three years of anticipation, as well as the joy of welcoming his fifth child. The audience reacted warmly to his heartfelt message, showing their support for the director.
The ensemble cast of “Wicked” includes Jonathan Bailey, Bowen Yang, Ethan Slater, Michelle Yeoh, and Jeff Goldblum. The first part of the movie is set to hit theaters on November 22, with the second installment expected to be released in November 2025.
Despite missing the premiere, Chu’s dedication to both his family and his work shines through, making the arrival of his fifth child a truly magical moment. The director’s ability to balance his personal and professional life serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing the importance of cherishing precious moments with loved ones while pursuing one’s passion in the creative industry.
As fans eagerly await the release of “Wicked,” they can look forward to experiencing a captivating story brought to life on the big screen by a talented cast and crew. The combination of musical performances, intricate storytelling, and visually stunning effects promises an enchanting cinematic experience for audiences of all ages. Stay tuned for more updates and behind-the-scenes insights as the premiere date approaches.
