Bethany Weaver Calls Stepping Into Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers in WICKED: FOR GOOD a “Life-Changing Experience”
Wicked: For Good has taken audiences back to Oz in a massive way and introduced a new performer stepping into one of cinema’s most legendary roles. Fans may never see her face on screen, but Bethany Weaver is the new Dorothy Gale, following in the footsteps of Judy Garland and bringing fresh energy to the iconic character in the blockbuster musical sequel.
Weaver revealed her involvement during the film’s record-shattering opening weekend, sharing behind-the-scenes photos on Instagram and expressing just what the role has meant to her. It marks her feature film debut and a huge moment for the young actor, who has quickly captured the attention of Wicked fans everywhere.
She wrote: “This has been a life changing experience, it’s changed me in so many ways and most importantly, for good. It’s been an honor to carry the legacy of the brilliant women before me who have stepped into these shoes, and embarked on the yellow brick road.
“I hope I have made them proud. Thank you for the sheer volume of love, kind messages and support from all of my friends and family and the glorious wicked fans, I love you all so much!”
In the new film, Dorothy remains an off camera presence, shown only from behind as she walks the Yellow Brick Road and receives her mission from the Wizard, keeping consistent with the Broadway musical’s approach.
Even without close ups or dialogue, the role carries immense symbolic weight, and Weaver embraced that responsibility completely.
Weaver also gave credit to the artists who helped shape her portrayal, thanking the film’s casting director along with its costume and make up departments for helping her step into Dorothy’s world. She singled out director Jon M. Chu with heartfelt appreciation, writing:
“A huge thank you to the best filmmaker of all time for choosing me to be your Dorothy in this wonderfully wicked universe called Oz. Thank you for contributing to starting my beginning.”
Wicked: For Good didn’t just capture fans’ hearts, it dominated the box office. The sequel opened to a massive $150 million domestic debut, the biggest opening ever for a Broadway adaptation on film.
That launch even sailed past the first Wicked movie’s $112 million opening in 2024. This year, only A Minecraft Movie managed a higher debut with 162 million.
With the film now playing in theaters from Universal Pictures, audiences can experience the next chapter of the Wicked saga and catch Weaver’s quietly powerful introduction as Dorothy Gale, a role she embraced with passion, humility, and love for the story’s legacy.
Weaver’s full Instagram message is included above, capturing her gratitude and excitement as she steps into Oz for the first time.