‘Wicked: For Good’ Dethrones ‘Superman’ By Breaking Notable Box Office Record For 2025

Universal’s “Wicked: For Good” is making waves at the box office before its official opening. The musical sequel pulled in $30.8 million in preview screenings, setting a new record for 2025.

Unlike typical preview numbers, which usually only count Thursday night showings, Universal started early. Amazon Prime-sponsored fan screenings on Monday brought in $6.1 million, Wednesday showings added $6.5 million, and Thursday previews, including double screenings of the film, made $18.2 million.

The previous record was held by Warner Bros.’ “Superman,” which earned $22.5 million in Thursday previews before opening to $125 million for its first weekend. According to box office analysts, “Wicked: For Good” is expected to earn between $150 million and $180 million this weekend, potentially giving it the biggest debut of the year.

For comparison, “A Minecraft Movie” had $10.6 million in Thursday previews and went on to a $162 million opening. Universal is predicting a more conservative $125 million.

The final #WickedForGood trailer is here ✨ Watch now. pic.twitter.com/P9UPa4B1Rx

— Wicked: For Good (@wickedmovie) September 24, 2025

Fans are excited to see Ariana Grande return as Glinda and Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, roles that have become iconic since last year’s original “Wicked.” Director Jon M. Chu’s first film in 2024 made $19.2 million in previews and went on to $112.5 million in its opening weekend during the pre-Thanksgiving period.

This year’s sequel brings back Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, Bowen Yang, and others to finish the story of the Wizard of Oz prequel.

The original “Wicked” also helped drive a record $420 million Thanksgiving box office in 2024 alongside “Gladiator II” and “Moana 2.” With Disney’s “Zootopia 2” set to open next week, both films are expected to compete for top spots in family-friendly holiday movie earnings.

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