How the Wicked Cast is Green With Generosity for Charity

The star-studded cast of Wicked (2024), titled onscreen as Wicked: Part I, has been involved in various charitable efforts, using their platform to raise awareness and support for different causes.

What better way to share some of the initiatives they have dedicated their time to than now, just following after the UK Premiere? Here are some notable contributions from the cast:

1. Ariana Grande (Glinda in the Film Adaptation)

• Support for LGBTQIA+ Rights: Ariana has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights and has supported organisations such as The Trevor Project, which focuses on suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ youth.
• Relief Efforts: She organised and performed at the One Love Manchester concert in 2017 to raise funds for the victims of the Manchester Arena bombing which happened during a concert of hers.
• Mental Health Advocacy: Ariana has been open about her struggles with anxiety and has supported mental health initiatives like the Mental Health Foundation.

2. Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba in the Film Adaptation)

• Social Justice and Equality: Cynthia is known for her advocacy for equal representation and opportunities in the entertainment industry. She has publicly supported The Black Cultural Archives and has also worked with The Young Vic, a London theatre known for its outreach to young people.
• Charitable Collaboration: Announced recently, Cynthia has collaborated with jewellery retailer Muse to release a Wicked-themed collection. With 10% of profits going to Dreams of Hope, an organisation that uplifts LGBTQA+ youth, encouraging self-expression, confidence building, and leadership through the arts.
• Support for Refugees: Cynthia is an ambassador for the Refugee Council, which works to support displaced individuals and families.

3. Michelle Yeoh (Madame Morrible in the Film Adaptation)

• Human Rights and Environmental Advocacy: Michelle has been active in promoting human rights, environmental sustainability, and women's empowerment. She has worked with UNICEF and various organisations to improve the lives of disadvantaged children and communities worldwide.
• Support for Education: Michelle has been involved in initiatives that promote education for young girls, especially in underprivileged regions.

4. Jeff Goldblum (the Wizard in the Film Adaptation)

• Environmental Causes: Jeff is a strong advocate for environmental protection, particularly through his association with the Wildlife Conservation Society and other environmental organisations.
• Support for the Arts: He has supported various causes related to the arts, particularly through donations and fundraising for arts education and the preservation of cultural heritage.

5. Jonathan Bailey (Fiyero in the Film Adaptation)

• LGBTQ+ Advocacy: Jonathan Bailey, an openly gay actor, has been a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and equality. He has used his platform to raise awareness of issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community.
• Support for Mental Health: Jonathan is an advocate for mental health awareness, particularly in the context of the pressures faced by young people in the entertainment industry. He supports initiatives aimed at promoting mental well-being.
• Charity Involvement: He has supported several charitable causes, including The Albert Kennedy Trust (AKT), which provides support to LGBTQ+ young people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. He has also worked with organisations that focus on providing arts education and mentoring opportunities to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Charity Check-in

At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article. 

Mental Health Foundation. This is a UK charity dedicated to promoting mental health awareness, supporting mental health research, and advocating for better mental health services and policies. Find out more.

Choose Love. This is a UK-based charity that supports refugees and displaced people by providing essential aid and advocating for their rights. Learn more here. 

The Trevor Project. This charity works in suicide prevention with 24/7 crisis support services, research, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ young people. Support them here.

This article aligns with the UN SDG Partnerships For The Goals.