7 Moments NBC Cut From the Wicked: One Wonderful Night Special
Not all the memorable moments from NBC's Wicked: One Wonderful Night special were aired on television. Though the two-hour event premiered on November 6, it was actually filmed in front of a live audience at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood in September.
The taping lasted around four hours, according to various reports, which meant many parts were edited out from the musical performances, cast interviews, and previews of the upcoming Wicked: For Good film.
Key Cut Moments
- The show’s opening featured “No One Mourns the Wicked,” with the audience acting as citizens of Oz, shouting “Good news! She’s dead!”
- During the song, the crowd tossed bouquets of flowers as Ariana Grande appeared as Glinda.
- Before the performance, choreographer Chris Scott coached the audience on the choreography, which wasn’t shown on TV.
- Deadline reported it took several attempts to get the flower toss right, with Scott encouraging the crowd, “Put your body into it!”
- Marissa Bode, playing Nessarose, introduced “Defying Gravity” by saying,
“Wicked is filled with so many incredible songs, but there is one that stands out.”
This introduction was shortened in the broadcast version.
The extended filming and behind-the-scenes moments reveal more of the live energy and interaction than viewers saw on screen.
Summary
The special captured a rich live experience, but many lively audience interactions and rehearsal moments were cut for time, trimming the broadcast for pacing.
Author’s Note
This special showcases how live events can lose the depth and spontaneity of in-person performances when edited for TV audiences.