Wicked: Who is Elphaba's real father? Explained

Wicked is a famous musical based on the novel by Gregory Maguire. It first premiered on Broadway in 2003, quickly becoming one of the most popular and long-running musicals in history. The show tells the story of two witches, Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, the Good Witch.

It explores themes of friendship, power, and identity, offering a new perspective on the world of The Wizard of Oz. The story is set in the land of Oz and delves into the lives of its iconic characters before Dorothy’s arrival.

The question of Elphaba’s real father is central to her identity in the story. Although Frexpar Thropp raises her as his daughter, her true father is the Wizard of Oz.

This revelation plays a significant role in understanding Elphaba’s motivations and struggles throughout the plot. The relationship between Elphaba and the Wizard is a key aspect of her transformation into the "Wicked Witch."

The plot follows Elphaba, a misunderstood green-skinned girl, who faces discrimination and rejection from society. As she grows up, she develops a powerful sense of justice and becomes an ally of the oppressed.

Her journey intertwines with Glinda’s, leading to a complicated relationship. Elphaba’s true parentage is unveiled as part of her evolution, leading to key moments that shape the story’s outcome.

Disclaimer: This article contains major spoilers for Wicked. Reader discretion is advised.

---

All about Elphaba’s real father in Wicked

In the movie, Elphaba is raised by Frexpar Thropp, who is the High Priest of the Land of Oz. He and his wife, Melena, raise Elphaba in the rural part of Oz. However, Elphaba’s true father is not Frex, but the Wizard of Oz.

The Wizard had an affair with Elphaba’s mother, Melena, which resulted in her birth. This revelation has a profound effect on Elphaba’s character. It explains her complicated feelings toward the Wizard and her eventual resistance to his rule. She struggles with the truth, feeling abandoned and betrayed by a man who is supposed to be a figure of authority and respect in Oz.

The revelation that the Wizard is her father explains much of Elphaba's life. As a child, Elphaba’s father, Frex, was distant and disapproving. This emotional neglect compounded with the truth about her biological father makes Elphaba question her place in Oz.

The Wizard’s actions toward her lead to Elphaba's eventual rebellion. Her understanding of her father's identity is central to her becoming the "Wicked" witch.

---

The cast of the movie

Here is the major cast of the movie:

• Elphaba: Ariana Grande
• Glinda: Cynthia Erivo
• The Wizard: Jeff Goldblum
• Frex: Ethan Hawke
• Melena: Michelle Yeoh
• Boq: Bowen Yang
• Nessarose: Gugu Mbatha-Raw

---

Production and direction

The 2024 film adaptation of Wicked is directed by Jon M. Chu, known for his work on Crazy Rich Asians. The film is produced by Marc Platt, with Stephen Schwartz returning to provide the music and lyrics for the movie.

The film is a long-awaited adaptation of the Broadway musical, and its production aims to capture the magic and themes of the stage version while also bringing new elements to the screen. The direction focuses on bringing the complex characters of Elphaba and Glinda to life, with stunning visuals and musical performances at the heart of the film.

---

Wicked was theatrically released in the United States on November 22, 2024.