Whether you are a lifelong fan of Elphaba and Glinda or a newcomer ready to experience the magic of Oz for the first time, you are likely wondering how to watch Wicked. With the massive cinematic adaptation hitting screens and the legendary Broadway production still touring the globe, there are more ways than ever to defy gravity.
The problem for many fans is the confusion between the stage show, the digital rental windows, and the eventual streaming home of the film. We’ve done the research to ensure you don’t miss a single note of this “Popular” phenomenon.
In this guide, we break down exactly where the movie is playing, when it arrives on streaming, and how you can still catch the live theatrical experience.
Key Takeaways
- The Big Screen: Wicked: Part One is currently a theatrical exclusive, meaning the cinema is your only option for the full experience right now.
- Streaming Home: As a Universal Pictures release, the movie will eventually stream exclusively on Peacock.
- Live Experience: The original musical is still running on Broadway and through various national tours.
- Digital Purchase: Expect a “Premium Video on Demand” (PVOD) window about 45 to 60 days after the theatrical release.
- Part Two: Mark your calendars for November 2025 for the conclusion of the story.
1. Where to Watch the Wicked Movie Right Now
If you want to see Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande in their career-defining roles, you need to head to the theater. Universal has opted for a traditional cinema-first release to capture the scale of the Emerald City.
Finding Showtimes
You can find tickets through major platforms like Fandango, AMC Theatres, or Regal Cinemas. Many theaters offer special “Fan Event” screenings and IMAX versions, which we highly recommend for the immersive audio of the musical numbers.
Is Wicked on Netflix or Disney+?
Currently, the answer is no. Because the film is produced by Universal, it will not head to Netflix or Disney+ in its first streaming window. It follows a very specific path from theaters to digital rental, then to NBCUniversal’s own platform.
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2. When and How to Stream Wicked at Home
For those who prefer a cozy night in, the wait for streaming won’t be forever. Here is the anticipated timeline for how to watch Wicked from your couch.
The Peacock Exclusive
As a Universal title, Peacock will be the first streaming service to host Wicked. Based on previous releases like Oppenheimer and The Super Mario Bros. Movie, we expect it to land on Peacock approximately 90 to 120 days after its theatrical debut.
Digital Rental and Purchase
If you don’t have Peacock, you can “rent or buy” the film on platforms like:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Apple TV (iTunes)
- Google Play Movies
- Vudu
Wicked Viewing Options: At a Glance
| Format | Availability | Best For |
| Theaters (IMAX/Standard) | Available Now | High-fidelity sound and visuals |
| Digital Rental (PVOD) | Coming Soon | Early home viewing (Premium price) |
| Peacock Streaming | Expected Early 2025 | Subscribers and budget-conscious fans |
| DVD / Blu-ray | Expected Spring 2025 | Collectors and physical media fans |
| Broadway / Live Tour | Ongoing | The original “live” magic |
3. How to Watch the Original Wicked Musical Live
While the movie is a global event, nothing replaces the energy of a live theater. If you want to see the show that started it all, you have several options:
- Broadway (Gershwin Theatre): The show has lived here for over two decades in New York City.
- West End (Apollo Victoria Theatre): The London home for all things Oz.
- National Tours: Wicked constantly tours across North America and internationally. Check the official Wicked the Musical website for cities near you.
4. Watching the Original “Wicked” Book Inspiration
If you want to dive deeper into the lore before watching the film, you might consider the source material. While there isn’t a “movie” of Gregory Maguire’s book, reading the 1995 novel provides a much darker, political look at Oz that many fans find fascinating.
Conclusion
The best way to how to watch Wicked right now is undeniably on the biggest cinema screen you can find. However, with Peacock and digital retailers waiting in the wings, home viewers won’t have to wait long to bring the Emerald City to their living rooms.
Would you like me to find the specific theatrical showtimes for your zip code or set a reminder for when the streaming date is officially announced?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is Wicked split into two movies?
A: Yes! The film adaptation is so massive that it has been split into two parts. Part One covers the story up until the “Defying Gravity” sequence, while Part Two is scheduled for release in late 2025.
Q: Will Wicked be free to watch anywhere?
A: It will not be “free” initially. You will either need a cinema ticket, a digital rental fee, or a paid subscription to Peacock once it arrives on the platform.
Q: Can I watch Wicked on HBO Max?
A: No. HBO Max (now Max) is owned by Warner Bros. Discovery. Since Wicked is a Universal Pictures film, it will head to Peacock instead of Max.
Q: What is the age rating for the Wicked movie?
A: The movie is rated PG, making it a perfect viewing option for families, though it does contain some thematic elements and brief scary images that might affect very young children.
