Wicked has faced backlash for having an openly LGBT+ cast. In plain 21st century, there are still places in the world where being part of the LGBT+ community—or even supporting it—is considered a crime. As a result, Wicked is now facing the consequences of such restrictions.
Wicked Is Banned in Kuwait
According to Variety, the adaptation of the popular musical—which has already dominated the global box office—was banned in Kuwait. The decision was reportedly made because some members of the cast openly identify as part of the LGBT+ community.
The film, originally scheduled for release in Kuwait on December 5, has been barred from all cinemas in the country. Local reports suggest that the ban stems from the inclusion of an LGBT+ character and the fact that actors such as Cynthia Erivo, Jonathan Bailey, Bowen Yang, Marissa Bode, and Bronwyn James are openly affiliated with the LGBT+ community.
wait can we all pause and realize how much beautiful and amazing representation that is in wicked???? LIKE most of the cast is queer, poc, etc. AND CYNTHIA BEING THE LEAD AS A BLACK WOMAN!!! this is so perfect I wanna cry I’m so happy it exists. May they win ALL the awards🩷💚
— iz🩷💚saw wicked 4x (@ilovegelphie) November 29, 2024
Despite the growing global attention to this issue, neither Universal Pictures, Republic Records, nor the cast has released an official statement. It is anticipated that a response may follow in the coming days.
Notably, this is not the first time Kuwait has garnered criticism for such measures. Last year, the country banned Barbie, claiming the film offended public morals.
Read also: These Comments Hurt More Than You Think»: Wicked Star Marissa Bode Calls Out Ableist Jokes
Another recent example includes the cancellation of Talk to Me, which was pulled from cinemas because it featured Zoé Terakes, an actor who identifies as transgender and non-binary.
In its opening weekend, Wicked had a total opening weekend gross of $164 million, making the film the highest-grossing global debut of a Broadway adaptation, beating 2012’s Les Misérables.
This article was originally written in Spanish by Mariana Martell in Cultura Colectiva
